“MAKING A HOME”

Re-creating memories

Dhaka is slowly turning into a shimmering mosaic of glass and light — a city chasing reflections rather than relationships with its surroundings. Towers rise higher each day, their mirrored skins gleaming under the sun, while questions of climate, comfort, and context fade quietly into the background. In the pursuit of grandeur, the rhythm of breeze, the play of shadow, and the intimacy of rain have become almost forgotten luxuries.

Desdemona stands as a gentle rebellion against this growing disconnect. It reimagines living not as an escape from nature, but as a dialogue with it. Here, walls breathe, courtyards collect the rain, and spaces unfold to embrace light and air in their most honest forms. The design refuses to be confined by the vertical monotony of urban apartments—it invites inhabitants to experience the poetry of daily life shaped by Dhaka’s true climate and culture.

In a city of sealed glass towers, Desdemona seeks to reopen the windows—to let the city feel the wind again.

Residential units are arranged in alternating positions to create a dynamic building form that enhances both spatial quality and environmental performance. This strategic staggering allows every unit to receive ample natural light, uninterrupted cross-ventilation, and open views from multiple directions. The configuration not only maximizes comfort and energy efficiency but also fosters a visual and physical connection between interior spaces and the surrounding environment, reflecting the project’s intent to harmonize urban living with nature.

The ground floor is designed as a lofty, triple-height space, creating a grand, welcoming entrance. A triple-height screen, set slightly back from the road, forms an urban transitional zone—offering a sense of arrival for passersby while maintaining privacy for the building’s users. Within the ground floor, a large open-to-sky courtyard serves as the heart of the space, featuring a sculptural tree, a children’s play area, a mini badminton court, walking trails, and seating and resting spaces. An interior lounge adds comfort and social interaction, while a double-height water fountain connects the basement to the ground floor, allowing natural light to pour into the lower level.

The landscaping is carefully curated with local fruit and flowering trees, designed to evoke childhood memories and create spaces where people can grow alongside nature, building lasting experiences and connections. The combination of open spaces, playful elements, and thoughtful greenery makes the ground floor not just an entry, but a vibrant, living part of the building.