Renovation at Makaibari Tea Factroy

The recently renovated reception and shop at the Makaibari Tea Factory, located just a few kilometers from the Bamboo Tea Pavilion, showcases an exceptional structural design executed by Mianzi in collaboration with Qx Designs. Nestled within the undulating terrain of Kurseong, this architectural intervention redefines the site’s interaction with its environment through a meticulously crafted bamboo roof structure.

Specifications

  • Area: 750sqft
  • Length: 12m/40ft
  • Width: 7m/23ft
  • Height: 5m/16ft

The roof, spanning 750 square feet with dimensions of 12 meters in length, 7 meters in width, and a height of 5 meters, represents a sophisticated synthesis of structural innovation and material integrity. Constructed entirely from bamboo, the roof's aerodynamic form is a deliberate response to the challenging climatic conditions of Kurseong, where heavy rains and high winds prevail. The design's primary objective was to create a minimalist yet highly functional structure capable of mitigating rain flow channels and minimizing wind cap.

This objective is realized through the use of eight bamboo ribs, which cantilever the roof, providing robust support while maintaining a stable yet visually light canopy. The roof’s design minimizes ground presence,  achieved through four central supports, enhancing the structure's sense of levitation. The central axis is supported by two primary bamboo arches, interlocked to provide exceptional stability. From these arches, three additional bamboo ribs extend, suspending the roof’s load with remarkable efficiency and elegance. 

Conceptually, the roof’s sweeping curves are a deliberate echo of the surrounding natural topography, creating a dialogue between the built environment and its natural context. The design is a study in contrasts, where the complexity of the structural solution is hidden beneath an outward simplicity that resonates with the site’s historical and cultural significance.

This Tea Factory stands as a testament to the potential of bamboo in modern architecture, demonstrating how traditional materials can be harnessed to create forms that are both contemporary and contextually appropriate.

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