Project Description

SITE: KEANE BRIDGE,SYLHET

CONCEPT: ARCHITECTURAL PALIMPSEST

The Keane Bridge, a historic landmark of Sylhet City, currently stands unused, its potential as a civic space dormant. Our proposal reimagines it as a platform for dual healing , healing people and healing architecture through sensitive, non invasive interventions inspired by the concept of architectural palimpsest. In architecture, a palimpsest layers new meaning over existing traces without erasing the past. The bridge becomes our base layer a cultural imprint of Sylhet upon which contemporary modular structures are lightly overlaid. These modules are structurally independent yet visually and spatially intertwined with the bridge, allowing the old and new to coexist harmoniously.

The first layer of healing is mental well-being. Elevated above the tranquil Surma River, the bridge offers sweeping views of water and greenery. Our modules incorporate green pockets, shaded seating, and contemplative decks, creating immersive spaces that leverage natural light, flowing water, and vegetation to reduce stress, promote mindfulness, and foster social connection.

The second layer is architectural healing, rooted in brownfield architecture. We preserve the bridge’s historic fabric, using a reversible design approach that ensures no structural damage. By layering contemporary use over heritage infrastructure, we extend the bridge’s life and meaning without erasing its history.

Functionally, the transformed bridge serves as a vibrant urban connector — a place for gathering, reflection, and cultural engagement. Through the interplay of palimpsest, adaptive reuse, and restorative design, the Keane Bridge evolves from an abandoned structure into a living canvas where heritage, nature, and human experience converge in healing unity.