The Bamiyan Vaults serve as a cultural refuge, protecting priceless cultural artefacts,
knowledge and traditions through its mix of educational, artistic and social programs
for visitors and residents alike. Using locally sourced materials of stone, sand, mud
and concrete, its form utilizes the structural stability of vaulted ceilings to shelter its
occupants and contents. Two vaults are angled to engage views of the Buddhist caves
of Bamiyan, connecting the user to the UNESCO Heritage site upon procession down
the entry stairs into the open air passages between the three main program elements:
Exhibition, Community, and Arts & Culture. The vernacular construction techniques
and materials are used to develop and create an evolved architectural typology for the
region.
Using experiential qualities of light & material, the Bamiyan Vaults catalyze local
connections with nature and the Bamiyan landscape. The Gabion wall as the exterior
shell of the building protects against the elements and the possibility of future human
threats to the site, designed to withstand the harsh degradation of time while ageing
gracefully and blending with its environment. The mud Brick vaults serve to provide
a warmer environment through its tone and vernacular application. Solar heating systems
located on the roof allow warm water to course through the vaulted walls in the
winter allowing for heating in the winter months. The Gabion exoskeleton meanwhile
provides shade from the blazing summer sun while storing some heat for the cooler
night temperatures.
Each of the three main program cores are designed to focus on outdoor views or spaces
allowing for overflow and connection to the environment as a backdrop for learning,
creating & growing. Nesting into the hillside the Bamiyan Vaults will stand as a
symbol of cultural fortitude in an otherwise challenging social climate. A place for
protection, continued education and survival of Bamiyan culture and society.
