This article talks about how a structure made of bamboo and mud blends and engages with the surrounding environment and how it structurally creates a sense of inclusion, calm, and interaction in a community space. 

ANANDALOY CENTER

INTRODUCTION

Anandaloy, located in Rudrapur, a village in the country’s Dinajpur district, is a center for therapy for the disabled. It is an excellent example of bamboo and mud construction. The two-story structure envelopes a therapy center for the disabled on the ground floor combined with a small studio for the production of fair textiles (Dipdii Textiles) on the first floor. The intricate use of local materials and local sources of energy, including the manual labor, creates a blend with the surroundings. The biggest part of the budget was invested in the local craftswomen because the structure is made out of local materials like mud and bamboo from the local farmers, and therefore it becomes a real catalyst for the local development, advancing the idea of a structure.

The geographical context shows how the structure is located between the green paddy fields and how it engages and blends with the environment and with the existing structures. The pond becomes a source for the raw materials as well as a water source.

Anna Heringer is an architect known for her innovative approach to sustainable architecture, specifically in earthen construction. Her work is inclusive of deep respect for the local materials and techniques, as well as a commitment to community and empowerment.

These different structures are examples of the works done by Anna Heringer. 

TRANSITION AND ADDITION OF SPACE

This structure was built in 2019 by Anna Heringer, and the lead architect for the project was Stefano Mori. Initially, the structure was built as only a therapy center for the disabled. There are not many therapy centers for the disabled in the country, and none in the rural areas like Rudrapur. The structure was extended to another story, hosting Dipdii Textiles, which became an effective counteract for the urban-rural migration. This addition to the structure creates a transition of spaces. Initially, the structure was only at the ground floor hosting a therapy center for the disabled. The concept was not only to host a therapy center for the disabled but also a space that provides them an opportunity to learn and engage in the community. 

DEFINING A SPACE 

Anandaloy is located in the northern part of Bangladesh, surrounded by green paddy fields on all sides. The mud walls of the structure twist, creating an intimate space, while the ramp runs adjacent to the twisting walls of the structure and connects to the first floor. The ramp is wide for all the people to access the space. The first floor in the middle part of the structure is connected by flights of stairs with bamboo railings.The ramp and the stairs play an important role in creating a sense of connection between the disabled and the women who work for Dipdii Textiles. 

The ground floor consists of therapy rooms for the people with disabilities, a common living room for the people to learn, work, and engage in the activities, and common toilets and shower areas. A wide path is introduced around the rooms, which makes it easier for people to locate and reach the respective spaces. Small spaces or caves are created under the ramp, which provides entertainment and repose.The first floor consists of a store, a tailoring workshop, and a textile studio for women to work in a convenient environment with the community. 

The use of natural light is maximized by adding large windows or skylights in the building. The use of diffused light makes the insides of the structure more soft and lively for the people to interact and engage in activities. Seating spaces are provided on the first floor, which are created by bamboo, which creates a resting space for the people. The interiors of the rooms were created to provide calm and relaxation. Subtle and soothing colors are used to promote a sense of peace in the structure. It includes open areas like double-heighted rooms with minimal design elements.

It provides the women of rural Bangladesh a chance to earn independently, in the village, build their own houses with their hands, grow their own food, and take care of their families. This is also stated by Anna Heringer.

MATERIALITY

The architecture of this structure explores the plastic abilities of mud for more stability and rigidity in the structure. Mud is usually seen as poor, old-fashioned, and inferior to bricks. The architect uses mud for the construction of the structure in a contemporary way. A technique named “Cob,” which is a specific mud technique, is used so that no framework is needed. Because of this, the curved walls are just as easily made as straight walls. Cob is an earth building technique based on a mixture of clay, sand, straw and water. The mixture is kneaded with hands, feet or simple tools, subsequently lumps are made, that are then compressed together and shaped by hand forming foundations and walls.

WHAT IS THE REASON FOR THE RAMP?

The ramp in the structure is very essential because it connects the ground floor to the first floor, and so it becomes a symbol of inclusion. The ramp creates small spaces under it to provide engaging and entertainment spaces for the people. It allows accessibility to all kinds of people since the ramp is wider which also allows access to individuals with wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids. It provides a safer transition of spaces because of its non-slip materials and handrails to prevent accidents. It dances in curves and the ramp winds playfully around its structure which is also stated by Archdaily.

HOW CAN INCLUSION BE INCORPORATED?

There are people representing a large range of different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives who live and share spaces in the structure. The structure allows accessibility to people with disabilities and provides multiple aids. Providing materials in different languages and ensuring that activities are adoptable by various people. Since the building is made by the local farmers, craftswomen and people with disabilities, it provides dignity to people living and sharing the space as a community.

CONCLUSION

The Anandaloy Center provides a harmonious environment for the people with disabilities and for the women working for the textile studio as a shared space. It is a symbol of inclusion and dignity because it allows access to people with different backgrounds and since the building is made by the farmers, craftswomen and people with disabilities. It is an open space so that the people can access the building. It concludes the arguments that the article conveys.

References

“Anna Heringer- 15 iconic Projects - RTF.” n.d. Rethinking The Future. Accessed August 16, 2024. https://www.re-thinkingthefuture.com/know-your-architects/a1007-anna-heringer-15-iconic-projects/.

González, María F. 2021. “Anandaloy Center / Studio Anna Heringer.” ArchDaily. https://www.archdaily.com/950681/anandaloy-center-studio-anna-heringer.

Mark, and Sally Bailey. 2014. Handmade: Creative Techniques and Design Inspirations. London: Ryland Peters & Small.

Miller, Keith H. 2019. Designing for Accessibility: A Practical Guide to Creating Inclusive Design. New York City: Apress.

stevens, philip. 2020. “anna heringer's 'anandaloy' is community center in bangladesh.” Designboom. https://www.designboom.com/architecture/anna-heringer-anandaloy-mud-bamboo-community-center-bangladesh-10-21-2020/.