Redefining bongobazar hawkers’ market complex Gulistan, Fulbaria, Dhaka

Abstract

Bongobazar has great significance for its age-old identity for low-priced garments, suitable location, and commercial importance for local wholesale buyers (mainly middle-class and low income people) across the nation. With changes of time, this marketplace has grown organically, due to excess user demands, commercial development of the city, and economic regeneration, without considering the need of preserving its distinct character, cultural values, or any safety measures. This project addresses the need for a new approach to the redevelopment of the market to alleviate the current issues, considering the surrounding urban fabric. The aim of this project is to redesign the market by regenerating the functions, considering the existing market conditions, and providing adequate facilities for the users. By integrating a systematic balance between the different types of formal and semi-formal markets and public functions, and preserving the intimate character of the existing marketplace, shops can be activated. A symbiotic state is created by introducing a central plaza that connects the neighboring entities. This central plaza caters to outdoor public gatherings which is a top priority as the city demands more open spaces that can hold events created by the urban-built facilities.