Bamiyan Cultural Centre

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The critical principle of this design concept is the creation of welcoming, safe and intimate spaces.  It is envisioned the public courtyards streetscape quality will encourage local artisans to showcase their work in an informal setting.  This venue will permit access to the historical cultural content and context of the region and also to visiting artisan in the workshops.  This locations expansive view of the lush valley and Buddha Cliffs beyond are capitalized on by the many northwest facing windows; from office workers to tea drinkers all will have an opportunity to experience the rugged beauty of the valley floor, cliffs and dramatic mountain range beyond.

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The design team will interact with local artisans to produce additional building texture and depth using a combination of traditional and modern brick designs as expressed on the buildings southwest elevation.

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The exhibition spaces indirect lighting requirement is achieved through the use of vaulted ceilings with glazed cupolas.  Additional, user restriction of this lighting may be accomplished by the introduction of temporary masking from the exterior.  Large performance hall windows mimic the distant Buddha niches and provide spectacular views of the unforgettable landscape.  All windows shall utilize highly insulated glazing with integral low E coating.

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The building shall be constructed using reinforced concrete columns and roof beams infilled and covered with locally produced mud brick.  The thickness of thes local brick will provide the necessary thermal mass to insulate against the summer heat.  Continuous roof parapets will be employed to capture and channel the meager 5 inches of annual precipitation to cisterns strategically located under the building.  This system will have the capacity to harvest up to 75,000 gallons annually for toilet flushing and other non-potable functions.  A recently completed nearby 1mW solar array will ensure trained technicians will be available to install and maintain this projects rooftop mounted 33kW solar panel array.

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The circular reception counter construction demonstrates rammed earth process.