Project Description

Uni-Tea is a mini tea stall (Tong) designed to foster community impact through inclusivity, sustainability, and cultural identity. Located within a university campus, it serves as a symbolic space for interaction, challenging stereotypes and embracing diversity. Inspired by Miss Priya, a transgender(hijra) tea vendor in Dhaka University, Uni-Tea empowers transgender individuals by providing a platform for economic and social integration.

The design prioritizes community engagement with an open, circular layout that encourages interaction from all sides. Rooted in Bengali architectural traditions, the structure embodies warmth and accessibility, reinforcing the idea that tea stalls are communal spaces where conversations thrive. The vendor, named Setu (meaning "bridge" in Bangla), represents the connection between people, transcending societal boundaries.

Beyond its social impact, Uni-Tea integrates sustainable solutions, including a rainwater harvesting and filtration system, reducing dependency on external water sources. Discarded tea leaves are repurposed as compost, minimizing waste and promoting environmental responsibility.

By breaking barriers and redefining public spaces, Uni-Tea transforms the simple act of drinking tea into a tool for social change. It creates opportunities for transgender individuals, fosters acceptance, and engages the local community in conversations about inclusion. More than just a tea stall, Uni-Tea is a catalyst for meaningful connections, proving that architecture can drive both social and environmental impact.