Machan Platform Strengthens Community Bonds in Bangladesh
A participatory design project by Paraa architects for the Korail community.
1Platform Designed for Social Interaction
Machan is a 332-square-meter community center built in Korail, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Meaning 'platform' in Bangla, it is located at Ershad Maidan and aims to strengthen community bonds. The project was shaped by the participation of youth, community leaders, and students. The participatory design process included activities like storytelling and model-making to engage the community.
2Participatory Design Process
Peraa architects organized over 60 participatory workshops and residency programs to design Machan. This process brought together local residents and young designers. Community needs were listened to, and the project evolved based on this feedback. This approach ensured Machan became more than just a building—it became a social platform for the community.
3Architectural Details and Materials
Machan was built using local materials like steel, concrete, and bricks. Led by principal architect Kazi Arefin, the team created a sustainable and durable structure. The design considers the region's climatic conditions. Local brands like Asian Paints and Shah Cement were used, supporting the regional economy.
4Social Impact and Usage
Machan is located in one of Korail's few open spaces, hosting cultural events for the community. The platform is used for exhibitions, workshops, and meetings, fostering solidarity and collaboration among residents. The project demonstrates the power of architecture in driving social transformation.
5Design Team and Collaborations
Peraa's design team included architects like A S M Khaled Saifullah, Abdul Kadir, and Farhin Iqbal. Gravity Engineers provided structural engineering services. Local workers were employed during construction, boosting the project's social impact and supporting local employment.
6Construction Process and Challenges
Machan was completed in 2025, overcoming the challenges of urban transformation. The team developed creative solutions despite limited resources. Local craftsmen like electrician Nur Nabi Patoary and carpenter Nazmul Hasan contributed to the construction, ensuring community ownership of the project.
7Architectural Photography and Promotion
The project was photographed by City Syntax and featured on international platforms like ArchDaily. Machan gained global attention for its participatory design approach. It serves as an example of how architecture can create social impact, inspiring similar projects worldwide.
8Sustainable Community Legacy
Machan leaves a lasting legacy for the Korail community. It proves that architecture can address social issues. The participatory design process sets a model for other urban transformation projects. Machan is remembered not just as a building, but as a symbol of social change.
Original article: ArchDaily Global — Bangladeş'te Toplumsal Bağları Güçlendiren Machan Platformu