তরী (Tori)

Nishat Jahan

Brac University

Bangladesh

Shaifta Morshed Kadri

Brac University

Bangladesh

Project Description

Rooted in the essence of life along the river, our floating tea stall embodies the balance between individuals, nature, and culture. It is designed as an inviting area for both river inhabitants and visitors, encouraging social engagement while providing a tranquil tea-drinking experience amidst fresh air and picturesque surroundings. Built on a raft buoyed by repurposed plastic bottles, the stall prioritizes affordability, sustainability, and local craftsmanship. The structure, made of lightweight bamboo, facilitates easy assembly and disassembly, creating a versatile and self-reliant model. A roof made of woven bamboo can be rolled back, allowing adaptability for various weather situations.

Our design is focused on sustainability. Used tea leaves act as natural fertilizer for plants, while coconut coir contributes to durability and insulation. The tea stall itself operates as a compact, mobile unit where all necessities—from the stove to seating—are contained within a portable box, making it functional both on land and in water.

Besides serving as a commercial hub for river communities, the stall redefines the experience of drinking tea as a fully immersive occasion elevating a simple daily habit into a chance to connect, unwind, and savor the calming allure of the river. By connecting age-old craftsmanship with sustainable innovation, our design not only creates economic chances for the river community but also encourages various communities to participate in a collective cultural experience—one that values the environment, sustainability, and interpersonal relationships. It represents more than a structure, embodies a story of endurance, tradition, and the everlasting delight of tea.