Shihipur Rethinking

The Shihipur Residence is designed as a private vacation retreat, envisioned as a peaceful escape from the busy urban life of Dhaka. The client, who resides in the capital city, intended the house to serve as a weekend and holiday home, to be visited occasionally throughout the month with family and guests. The project is situated on a spacious two-bigha plot surrounded by lush rural landscape. Conceived in response to the tropical climate of Bangladesh, the house follows a climate-responsive architectural approach. The building has been oriented toward the south to maximize natural light, ventilation, and visual connection with the surrounding greenery. Two mature palm trees existing on the site were carefully preserved and integrated into the design, recognizing their ecological and aesthetic value. The architectural language reflects a modern tropical style. The structure is elevated on circular columns, creating an open and breathable ground level while giving the building a light and floating appearance. Large overhanging roof slabs and sun louvers on the façade protect the interiors from direct heat and glare while allowing filtered daylight to enter. Extensive use of glass on all sides blurs the boundary between indoor and outdoor spaces, making the surrounding fields and landscape feel like an integral part of the living environment. Each room is designed with south-facing windows to ensure ample airflow, cross-ventilation, and uninterrupted views of the distant village scenery. The house accommodates multiple functional zones. The upper floor includes guest accommodations, while the main living areas are organized around open terraces and balconies. A fully equipped indoor kitchen is complemented by a large outdoor kitchen designed for family gatherings and social events. Separate on-site accommodation has also been provided for drivers and staff to ensure smooth maintenance and operation of the property. The approach to the residence is designed as an experiential journey. Visitors cross a water feature and a wide green lawn before reaching the main entrance, creating a tranquil transition from the exterior landscape to the interior living spaces. Overall, the Shihipur Vacation House is conceived as a harmonious blend of architecture and nature—an elegant, contemporary retreat that celebrates openness, comfort, and the serenity of rural Bangladesh.