Bangladesh Air Force Conference Room – Interior Design
Client:
Md Sajadul Islam
Project Type:
Institutional / Public Interior
Location:
Bangladesh Air Force, Bir Uttam Ziaur Rahman Rd, Dhaka-1215.
Duration:
14 days
Area:
975 sq.ft
Project Overview:
At the Bangladesh Air Force on Bir Uttam Ziaur Rahman Rd, Dhaka-1215 this project for Md Sajadul Islam will be a professional institutional interior of 975 sq. ft. The interior will accommodate both formal (executive) meetings and informal (training) as well as facilitate collaboration among colleagues. A focus has been placed upon the aspects of clarity, functionality and authority to support all functions within this space. The combination of an ordered and calming aesthetic of the overall design with functional layouts makes this space conducive to use by a mid-size team as well as for large or small formal gatherings. A strategic approach to both lighting and circulation have been used in conjunction with durable finishes/materials throughout the space to create a high performance environment that clearly communicates professionalism/operational precision.
Project story:
The client requested an efficient but compact working area that would accommodate structured session, briefs and smaller executive type meetings. The greatest challenge presented in creating the needed space was the length and width of the floor plan combined with low ceiling heights and numerous entry/exit points, thus requiring a functional and visually open layout.
The “Quiet Professional Order” design concept influenced all decisions made regarding this project. To provide maximum daylight penetration and to create a sense of openness while establishing clearly defined functional zones, Glass partitions were incorporated into the design. Additionally, a central hallway was created to connect the Training room and executive boardroom. The central hallway functions as both a means of circulation (for moving from one room to another) and a buffer space to improve wayfinding.
To meet the balance between durability and professionalism in terms of material selection: glossy porcelain tile floors were selected for ease of cleaning, gray commercial grade carpeting was chosen for its ability to dampen sound levels; wood veneer accents were added to provide some warmth to the space; and full height Glass partitions were installed to provide transparency.
Subtly adding plants to the space and installing wall mounted signage reinforced the institutional image of the organization while keeping the overall minimalistic aesthetic intact.
Lighting was also a major point of emphasis. A recessed LED grid system was designed to provide a glare free, even source of light across the entire space. In addition to providing general lighting needs, task specific lighting systems (such as those utilized for presentations) and wall sconce systems were included in the design. The Neutral to cool color temperatures of the lighting system enhanced alertness and worked well with the muted color palette that was established through the design elements. As such, the overall atmosphere of the space felt focused, organized, and purposeful.
Project insights:
1. The central hallway functioned as both a primary means of circulation in the space and as a buffer zone to help define each functional area within the space thereby allowing for the most effective utilization of available functional space.
2. The classroom style seating arrangement in the Training area allows for the optimal number of attendees per Training session while maintaining clear lines-of-sight among participants.
3. The incorporation of Glass partitions allowed for increased daylight penetration and improved visual connectivity within the space while still providing adequate separation between functional areas.
4. The raised platform utilized for presentations in the Training area served to provide optimal visibility for presenters and participants alike.
5. Utilizing a Neutral colored palette with very subtle amounts of greenery maintained the professional nature of the space while helping to soften the overall feel of the environment.
6. A recessed LED grid system was employed to provide consistent, glare free illumination throughout the space which helps reduce fatigue associated with longer Training sessions.
7. A custom built boardroom table incorporating monitor screens, computer keyboards, and cable management systems was developed to meet the unique needs of executive level communications.
8. Material contrasts between glossy tile flooring, soft carpeting, wood veneer accent pieces, and Glass partitions add additional layers of depth and clarity to the overall aesthetic of the space.
9. Wall mounted branding elements along with wood slat paneling components are being utilized to reinforce the institutional identity of the organization in a manner that is both obvious and understated.
Design details:
Space planning: The design has been optimized to take advantage of the unique characteristics of a long, thin floor plan through the inclusion of a central hallway that connects the Training hall and executive boardroom. By utilizing a classroom style configuration of desks in the Training hall, capacity can be maximized while ensuring that all attendees have clear sightlines. The executive boardroom is designed for high level discussions on a single long table.
Circulation within the space is logical, simple to navigate and free from clutter.
Materials & finishes: Professional, durable finishes have been prioritized in this project. These finishes include: glossy porcelain tile flooring; gray commercial grade carpeting; wood veneer accent pieces; and full height Glass partitions. The combination of these finishes creates a highly functional space with excellent visual openness due to the large amount of natural light able to enter from outside.
Lighting & atmosphere: Even illumination across the entire space is provided through a recessed LED grid system. Task specific lighting systems (such as those utilized for presentations), wall sconce systems, and projector-focused lighting systems provide additional localized lighting where necessary. Cool-Neutral lighting enhances alertness while supporting extended work or Training sessions.
Color & texture: The design incorporates off-white walls, light wood tones and dark gray finish elements to establish a Neutral-colored palette that creates a calm atmosphere. Contrastive textures between glossy tile flooring, soft carpeting, smooth Glass partitioning, and wood grain finish elements create depth without distractions.
Furniture & joinery: Each workstation in the Training hall includes built-in power outlets and cable management systems. The custom-built executive boardroom table was specifically designed to incorporate technology integration capabilities. Additional design elements including wall mounted TV units, slatted paneling elements, and ergonomic seating options contribute toward achieving both functional and aesthetic objectives.
Visualization & Experience: High resolution 3d render images as well as animated walk-through visuals were produced for review by the client prior to construction commencement. These visualizations enabled the client to visualize how various design elements function together within a fully realized physical environment, improving their ability to make informed design decisions sooner than they may have otherwise done so.
How long did this project take from start to finish?
A: The project was completed in 14 days, facilitated by a compact area and focused design scope.
Can this design approach be applied to other institutional spaces?
A: Yes. The strategies of clear circulation, glass partitions, and durable neutral finishes are adaptable to mid-sized corporate or public training environments.
How did the long, narrow layout influence the design?
A: It was used advantageously with a central hallway that organizes circulation and creates visual openness while connecting functional areas.
What role did 3D visualization play?
A: Renders and walkthroughs allowed the client to confirm layouts, lighting, and finishes in advance, minimizing errors and accelerating approvals.
Were there challenges with low ceiling heights?
A: Yes. Recessed LEDs and careful furniture selection prevented a cramped feeling while maintaining a professional, organized look.
How were acoustics managed in training areas?
A: Commercial-grade carpet and glass partitions reduce echo and absorb sound, balancing clarity with transparency.
What makes this space feel professional but still approachable?
A: A restrained color palette, subtle greenery, and material contrasts provide calm, focus, and warmth without losing institutional formality.