It is a concept for a medicinal plant repository in Bangladesh that explores the future pharmaceutical possibilities of combining Ayurveda and Western medicine. The instigating premise of the project is based on the ecological crisis we currently find ourselves in and how architecture can become an approach to co-exist with it. To confront this topic, the project takes place in Bangladesh—often referred to as “ground zero for climate change” (1) —specifically Dhaka, because of the intersection between its high-risk climate zone status, abundance of naturally growing medicinal plants, rapid urban expansion and dense population. The building materials are sourced and fabricated locally, giving the building an essence of belonging and eliminating the aspect of Awayness.(2) “Traces” highlights three bio-fabricated and local materials to address this, using natural elements from the surrounding environs that are residues from the encroaching global climate change and warming. Through materiality, the design offers a path of architectural reconciliation by “combining digital literacy with environmental consciousness” (3) to instill ecological awareness. The integration of bio-fabrication techniques, working with natural composite materials, and localizing the construction material and manufacturing process are aspects of the design integral to designing with a non-carbon future in mind. 

(1) ‘Global Climate Index’, accessed July 02, 2022,  https://www.germanwatch.org/en/cri 

(2)  Morton.T, (2012). Architecture without Nature.

(3) Picon. A, (2020). Beyond Digital Avant-Gardes. Text. John Wiley & Sons Ltd.