Marine Tourism Training and Research Institute

The primary aim of this project was to address specific real-world problems within a designated context. In this instance, the focus was on Cox’s Bazar, a location heavily associated with tourism in Bangladesh. Despite its prominence in tourism, there exists a deficiency in the training provided to individuals involved in this sector. Given Bangladesh’s emphasis on developing its blue economy, particularly in marine tourism, the need for educational infrastructure becomes imperative due to the scarcity of institutions offering tourism-related studies.

Recognizing Cox’s Bazar as a significant shrimp-producing region, the design program also incorporated a marine fisheries laboratory. Situated in a picturesque valley near a canal outside the city, the project faced the dual challenge of embracing the natural landscape while ensuring measures to safeguard the microclimate.

The project’s design emphasizes the educational aspect by fostering experiential learning through the integration of public and private functions. This involves creating spaces that attract tourists, local residents, and shrimp farmers, encouraging interaction with institute students and researchers. Rather than confining education within the traditional classroom setting, the project aims to provide engaging environments where students can gain practical experience by interacting with visitors.

Regarding the landscape, architectural and landscaping interventions aim to mitigate the effects of high winds, water, and landslides. These interventions involve creating contrasts or blending with nature as appropriate. The design of the spaces allows natural forces such as cyclones and tidal surges to pass through the building, rendering it almost imperceptible yet robustly functional