​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Location: Dhaka, Bangladesh

Completion: 2019

Project Type: Office/Commercial (Competition Entry)

Area: 65,880 Sq ft​​​​​​​

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The Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC) is crucial in regulating Bangladesh’s energy sector, ensuring transparency and promoting private investment. This project aims to design an environmentally sustainable headquarters that aligns with BERC's mission while offering a comfortable and efficient workspace. The design focuses on the local context, climate, and the need for an energy-efficient, functional environment, ensuring long-term sustainability for the Commission.

The site, located in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar’s administrative zone, presents several challenges due to its linear shape and exposure to the west. However, its proximity to a canal, green spaces, and notable landmarks such as the Liberation War Museum inspired the design. By studying local architectural precedents, such as the National Assembly Building by Louis Kahn, the design incorporates semi-outdoor spaces and thermal buffer zones to mitigate the effects of solar heat gain and optimize the building’s performance in the local climate.

The design concept, “Common Ground,” focuses on three key elements: site, space, and climate. The linear building mass is optimized to maximize usable space and efficiency, with careful consideration of the sun's exposure and natural ventilation. Thermal buffer zones on the west, combined with vertical louvers and strategic openings, protect the building from heat while ensuring privacy and connectivity. Functional arrangements are categorized into public, internal, semi-public, and service areas, ensuring a comprehensive, adaptable layout that supports BERC's operations.​