BAMYAN CUTURAL CENTER COMPETITION 2015

Architectes Stephane Dubail & David Ratanat

« HAVE A TRIP ON THE STRIP

The project begins like a tale.

How to grasp essence of this amazing site and to give a unique architectural answer ?
Every story has a beginning. The tale needs to take the listener along the narration and awake them, to arise up their awareness to be able to deliver a message. Inspired by the « Tales of arabian nights » or the comic character of Nasreddin Hodja, we wanted to refer to something which is multicultural and that you can find in every country : the passing down of heritage through telling stories. We guess that this is the key to the project.

 

Impressions on the site.

The absence of the buddha sculptures, which is made obvious by the carved caves, is a traumatic element, a feeling of void which leads us to an unique, a more lyrical and poetic answer. We designed a building that would blend onto the site and make up for this emotional shock that the destruction of the massive statues has left. It will be like a screen, a skin to protect human activities and preserve the heritage.

 

Architectural answer.

Beside the construction of the Cultural Centre, the program requires to build a perimeter wall (4.00 meter high) to close the plot. Our idea is to turn this wall into a strip, which would take the visitors to the different frames.
The structure has two purposes : the first one is to create a haven, an « Inside » to host cultural events. The other one is to draw a movement in the landscape (the « Outside »), by creating footbridges and walkways to connect visitors with the dramatics sceneries of the cliffs. On the groundfloor, courtyards also link the different spaces and enhance arts-related skilled workforce.
In concept, the design of the curves is inspired by the arabic calligraphy and also refers to the patience of the writer drawing arabesques. As the brush draws curved lines on the paper, the visitors are invited to walk along the walls, and to take the time to reflect.

Structure / Construction :
The structure design is not only a technical answer to erect the building, but it is also visible and it is part of the project. In reference to the modern architecture (beginning of 20th century), we decided to use a simple concrete portal frame which also leads and protects visitors along the courtyards. Generosity of the large spaces (performance hall, exhibition, collection storages) are possible by the use of precast concrete beams, which support the low slopped roof and the pedestrian routes on the top. Our intention is to enable and grow large spaces for temporary events and to allow any kind of activity or attractions, like a concert on the rooftop for example.
The project’s aim is also to promote the use of local materials and local know-how (mud bricks, baked bricks, etc.). Being architects, we believe that using local materials and labor is primordial. It consolidates the involvement and the appropriation of the project by the population and give them the opportunity to be part of a wonderful experience. Our approach might be sensitive and we can inspire on the work of the egyptian architect Hassan Fathy, to draw lines or flower frames on the walls, and make a partnership with associations, like the experiences performed in the Andhkoy district in Afghanistan.

“Le parcours” : time and movement.
The Buddhas of Bamiyan are now under the protection of the UNESCO and are recognized as part of the universal heritage. The location of the Cultural Centre overlooking the cliffs, will give the opportunity to everyone to think about the essence and meaning of the place.
Elevating on the slope, sitting in the shadow of the galleries, passing through the arcades and galleries of the gate, visitors will have time to wander around the site.
Because the time of the walk, is also the time of a talk. »