brick walls and perforated jali screens enclose training hub by codec in coastal bangladesh

CODEC Design crafts A Climate-Responsive Training Facility

The Kuakata Training Center by CODEC Design is a purpose-built educational facility designed to support capacity building and skill development for coastal communities in Bangladesh. Located near fishing settlements, ecological zones, and tourist routes, the center provides space for residential training programs on topics such as coastal resource management, sustainable tourism, and disaster preparedness. The project follows a phased construction approach, emphasizing quality, environmental performance, and contextual relevance. Local contractors and laborers were engaged throughout the process, contributing to both construction and community skills development. This participatory method fosters long-term local ownership of the facility.

Climate resilience has played a central role in the architectural strategy. Elevated structures address the site’s vulnerability to flooding and seasonal surges, while passive cooling methods reduce reliance on mechanical systems. An elongated water body positioned on the southern side functions as both a freshwater reservoir and a passive cooling element. Air passing over the pond helps lower indoor temperatures, further supported by jali screens that introduce ventilation and filtered daylight while minimizing heat gain. The structural system combines locally-produced brick load-bearing walls with reinforced concrete beams and roofs, providing stability suitable for cyclone-prone environments. Material selection prioritizes durability, ecological responsibility, and regional identity. Features such as solar power systems and rainwater harvesting units further reduce the building’s environmental footprint.

all images by Asif Salman

Kuakata Training Center is a platform for experiential learning

The interior layout accommodates various programmatic needs. In addition to classrooms and seminar spaces, the center includes residential units for trainees and facilitators, as well as dining facilities that emphasize the use of locally sourced ingredients. Outdoor spaces, including open courtyards, shaded walkways, and planted green zones, are integrated to encourage informal gathering and relaxation, enhancing the overall learning environment. The facility is also intended to serve as a platform for experiential education. Its proximity to the coastal ecosystem enables training modules and excursions that connect participants with the region’s environmental, economic, and cultural contexts. The Kuakata Training Center by CODEC Design Studio reflects an approach that integrates education with environmental awareness, community participation, and sustainable design practices.

the Kuakata Training Center supports skills development for coastal communities in Bangladesh

local contractors and laborers were engaged throughout the building process

elevated structures provide protection against flooding and seasonal surges

the structural system uses locally-produced brick load-bearing walls with reinforced concrete roofs

Jali screens promote ventilation while minimizing heat gain and allowing filtered light

passive cooling strategies reduce reliance on mechanical ventilation systems

solar power systems contribute to the center’s low environmental footprint

the design addresses cyclone resilience through material and structural choices

planted green zones enhance comfort and microclimate conditions throughout the site

the interior layout includes classrooms, seminar spaces, and residential units for trainees

project info:

name: CODEC-Kuakata Training Center
architect: CODEC Design

location: Kuakata, Bangladesh

lead architect: Quazi Wafiq Alam

design team: Hossenur Rahman Juwel, Nowshin Matin

structural engineer: Sauban Masud

photographer: Asif Salman | @salarchman

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom