Spirit of freedom: Reviving the Historical Rose Garden Palace

The Rose Garden Palace in Tikatuli, Dhaka, once a symbol of affluence and cultural identity under zamindar Hrishikesh Das, has deteriorated into a neglected relic. This project proposes a sensitive restoration and adaptive reuse of the 4.4-acre site, transforming it into a museum and cultural center that celebrates Dhaka’s rich heritage while serving its contemporary urban community. Through a careful blend of colonial and Bengali architectural elements, the design seeks to preserve the palace’s historical character while introducing new functions such as exhibition galleries, educational zones, traditional restaurants, and open courtyards for community engagement. The experience-based design philosophy ensures that visitors actively participate in learning history through interactive displays, guided tours, and hands-on workshops. Sustainability and inclusivity are central to the design. Passive cooling strategies such as extended roof overhangs, ventilated courtyards, dual-paned windows, and green infrastructure like greywater recycling and glass blocks for daylighting, help reduce energy dependence. The entire complex is made universally accessible, welcoming people of all ages and abilities. This project repositions the palace not only as a preserved monument but as a living, breathing cultural hub. It reconnects people to their history, fosters educational engagement, and revitalizes a historic landmark within the urban fabric of Dhaka.