The proposed Boat Crafting Centre acts as a social hub, enabling community engagement while embracing tradition to foster creativity. Located in Charpathorghata, a boat-making village by the Karnaphuli River in Patiya Upazila, Chittagong, the site reflects the historical significance of boat crafting, critical to the identity of this riverine nation. The project aims to revitalize this remote community and preserve heritage through design, creating harmony between tradition and modernity.

A key component of this center includes a museum to celebrate the rich artistry of wooden boat construction, educating visitors about the craft’s cultural significance and history via exhibits and programs. Equipped with modern workshops, the boat-making zone facilitates collaboration and innovation among craftsmen, merging traditional techniques with contemporary practices to ensure the craft’s survival. Supportive facilities, including a research unit, medical room, resting area, community kitchen, and a dedicated space for “Naukar Haat,” bolster the livelihoods of craftsmen while promoting knowledge sharing.

An open plaza is planned as a vibrant gathering spot for celebrating annual events like fishing festivals and boat racing. The natural landscape riverfront is optimized with pathways, seating areas, and green spaces, creating a welcoming environment for recreation and social activities. The area beneath the bridge will be transformed into a net-mending space and temporary market during festivals, enhancing the project’s overall function. Connectivity between these zones will be enriched by an elevated bridge, designed to gently link people to nature and the water.

Inspired by the structural essence of boats encompassing their craftsmanship, hull geometry, and ornamental carvings the design fosters a unique narrative that honors heritage while promoting contemporary innovations in boat-making. The design strategy emphasizes sustainable architecture by integrating traditional boat-making techniques with local materials, allowing local craftsmen to contribute to the structure’s construction. Eco-friendly wooden materials and traditional practices will be prioritized to align the center’s construction and operation with sustainable principles, utilizing glulam, which offers a near-zero carbon footprint.

In summary, this project is a multifaceted effort to modernize an ancient craft while empowering local artisans and engaging the community. Through sustainable design, educational initiatives, and cultural celebrations, it seeks to create a thriving, interconnected environment that honors heritage and innovation in boat crafting.