The missing symphony of nature in Bangladesh Parliament Complex

Dhaka, a bustling megacity, boasts a vibrant tapestry of architectural wonders. Structures stand tall, shoulder to shoulder, creating a unique urban landscape. Yet, nestled amidst this architectural beauty, a question arises: where does nature find its niche? 

While discussing Dhaka's architectural pride, one cannot ignore the awe-inspiring Bangladesh Parliament Complex comprising 215 acres of land, a masterpiece by the legendary Louis Isadore Kahn. Kahn's architectural legacy is vast, with iconic structures like the Salk Institute in California and the Kimbell Art Museum in Texas. His work continues to inspire architects today for its timeless beauty, functionality, and sensitivity to the natural world. While his style wasn't universally adopted, Kahn's emphasis on natural light, monumental forms, and the inherent beauty of materials left a lasting impact on modern architecture. 

Continuing with the legacy, the parliament building of Bangladesh, built in the Sher-E-Bangla Nagar in the capital,  also embodies a harmonious blend of geometry and light. The use of raw concrete creates a structure that is both monumental and serene. The Complex, resting on a platform, appears to float above the reflecting pool. It is  a testament to Kahn's mastery of scale and balance. 

A canal, commonly known as the 'Crescent Lake', connects the structure with the MP residences like a strand of a necklace. Natural light plays a pivotal role in this structure, filtering through strategically placed openings, and bathing the interiors in a warm, ethereal glow with the reflection of the lake. 

The most significant characteristic is that the complex is not just aesthetically pleasing; its design incorporates elements that address Dhaka's tropical climate. From an engineering perspective, the placement of the lake is not just an aesthetic choice. Dhaka's tropical climate can be unforgiving, and the surrounding water acts as a natural coolant, cooling down the complex's internal temperature.

However, a closer look at this project reveals a missed opportunity. In the parliament complex, where water is available, its current design makes it inaccessible for the birds around. Birds, crucial to a healthy ecosystem, require not just bushes and trees for habitat and nesting, but also water for drinking and bathing.

The pool, bordered by vertical concrete walls, creates a barrier for Dhaka's avian and nocturnal residents. Likewise, the crescent lake, also with vertical walls, forms a similar hindrance. The result? Few birds are observed in this otherwise impressive architectural space. 

Imagine the scene if the shoreline were sloped and covered with vegetation, transforming the pool into a haven for birds to drink and bathe. The gentle lapping of water against the slope would not only be aesthetically pleasing but also attract a vibrant ecosystem, adding a layer of life and sound to the Parliament Complex. 

Incorporating elements like floating bamboo rafts on the water surface could transform the lake into a welcoming haven, attracting an abundance of birds and enriching the entire Complex.

This example highlights a crucial point: sustainable urban design necessitates a delicate balance between human ingenuity and the natural world. Urban complexes should prioritise incorporating water features with gently sloping shorelines planted with native vegetation, providing essential access for birds and nocturnal wildlife. 

Additional water features flanking the parliament building, with planting native vegetation along the gently sloping shorelines, would create a haven for wildlife. 

While Dhaka boasts architectural marvels, incorporating elements that invite nature in could elevate these structures further into a city where iconic buildings co-exist with flourishing birdlife, creating a symphony of human creation and natural beauty. 

Dhaka's journey lies in striking a delicate balance between architectural marvels and the thriving tapestry of nature. By allowing birds to drink, bathe, and thrive in the heart of the city, we can create an urban haven that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also ecologically sound. This is the true mark of a progressive metropolis, one that embraces innovation while fostering respect for the natural world.