Tea Home

Jasheen Sayed

MARATHWADA MITRA MANDAL'S COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE

India

Project Description

Tea stalls, locally known as ‘tea tongs,’ are an integral part of Bangladesh’s social and cultural fabric. These small yet significant spaces foster community interactions, providing more than just a place for tea, they are hubs of conversation and connectivity. Inspired by the case study of Rajshahi, our design reflects the core components of traditional stalls while introducing sustainable and innovative elements tailored for an evolving urban landscape.

Our tea stall design prioritizes economic efficiency, utilizing locally available vernacular materials such as bamboo and jute. Bamboo, known for its versatility, lightweight nature, and strength, forms the primary structural framework, while woven bamboo and jute add a traditional aesthetic. The stall remains modular, featuring a compact main platform with an extendable section to accommodate varying foot traffic. During peak hours, the platform expands to provide additional seating, while in off-peak times, it retracts to occupy minimal space. The vendor benefits from an ergonomic chair and built-in storage, ensuring ease of operation.

Functionality extends to climate adaptability. The bamboo roof incorporates a drainage system using bamboo gutters and pipes for monsoon resilience. An extended overhang provides additional shelter during Bangladesh’s rainy season. Recognizing the country’s susceptibility to floods, the stall integrates an innovative flotation mechanism the flaps open, and the base transforms into a raft, allowing the vendor to continue business.

Beyond its physical adaptability, the stall promotes environmental sustainability. Each element supports biodiversity, contributing to carbon sequestration, soil improvement, and habitat preservation. The tea stall thus emerges as more than just a commercial entity it is a vibrant cultural and ecological landmark that integrates seamlessly with the local community, upholding tradition while embracing innovation and sustainability.