Kashef Chowdhury/URBANA
Dhaka, Bangladesh
Kashef Chowdhury co-founded the Dhaka-based architecture studio URBANA in 1995 and has led it as sole principal since 2005. He selects commissions carefully, dedicating significant time and research to each project in order to develop contextually and socially grounded responses. URBANA’s work spans a range of typologies and scales, including cultural, educational, healthcare, industrial, religious, residential, and climate-related projects—many of which have been developed pro bono.Key works include the Independence Monument and Museum in Dhaka, won through a national competition in 1997; the Friendship Centre in Gaibandha; the Friendship Hospital in Satkhira; Srihatta – Samdani Art Centre and Sculpture Park in Sylhet; and the new University of Liberal Arts campus in Dhaka. Chowdhury received the AR+D Emerging Architecture Award from The Architectural Review (2012), the Aga Khan Award for Architecture (2016), and the RIBA International Prize (2021).
2025 Biennial Project
Project Overview
Friendship Centre
Friendship Centre is a training and conference facility serving some of the poorest communities in Bangladesh, especially those living on remote river islands with limited access to services and opportunities. Built almost entirely of local handmade brick, the Centre is arranged as a series of pavilions, courtyards, pools, and gardens. Rainwater is collected in internal pools, and excess is pumped into a pond that also supports fish farming. The layout and earth-covered roofs provide natural ventilation and cooling in the tropical climate.
Venue
View moreChicago Cultural Center
Address
78 E. Washington St., Chicago, IL 60602
Neighborhood
The Loop
Description
Completed in 1897 as Chicago’s first central library, the building was established as the Chicago Cultural Center, the nation’s first and most comprehensive free municipal cultural venue, in 1991. One of the most visited attractions in Chicago, the stunning landmark building is home to two magnificent stained-glass domes, as well as free art exhibitions, performances, tours, lectures, family activities, music, and more – presented by the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) and many others.
