Located in the heart of Sylhet city, the 235-year-old Old Central Jail stands as a powerful witness to the city’s rich history. Established in 1789, it housed many political prisoners and freedom fighters. This prison remains a silent observer of the British, Pakistani, and present-day Bangladesh eras. However, following the construction of a new prison, this historic site fell into disuse and became inaccessible to the public.
With Sylhet’s population rapidly expanding and a growing shortage of open public spaces, the site now presents a unique opportunity for transformation. The goal of this project was to preserve the architectural and historical significance of the Old Central Jail while repurposing it into an open public space. The vision was to reconnect the memory and heritage of the site with modern urban life, creating a multifunctional cultural hub and gathering place for the community. The project focuses on the adaptive reuse of historic buildings, redesigning open spaces, and integrating new activities. The main entrance and internal courtyards were reimagined with a fresh approach. Historic cell blocks were transformed into exhibition galleries, preserving condemned cells and libraries, while ensuring accessibility to key areas. New spaces included a children's playground, walkways for recreation, and other user-oriented activity zones. Furthermore, a public realm and cultural zone were developed to serve the city's dense population. This project blends historic preservation with urban renewal, addressing Sylhet's public space needs while offering a dynamic, inclusive environment for the community.

2023

2024

The project focuses the preservation of the past and its suitability for reuse in the present. The preservation of old cells, the gallows, and both internal and external walls has been taken into account. The cells contain old plasterwork that serves as a testament to the past. In addition, the historical use of wooden trusses with tin roofing has been reconsidered for reuse. The preservation and reuse of old bricks, the incorporation of steel trusses, and the use of local materials contribute to reflecting the beauty of the architectural style. Modern technology has been emphasized alongside traditional construction techniques. Attention has been paid to redesigning the landscape in response to its context, and the creation of diverse spaces for public convenience is a central theme of the project.

Name: Chowdhury Labib
Studio:X (Thesis)
Project title: Transforming the Old Central Jail into a Public Realm, Sylhet.
Studio Master: Ar. Syed Mohsin Ali,Ar. Azima Tabassum.
Supervisor:Ar. Shah Md. Hasin Shad.

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