Project-Bamboo Cafe Monaragala-Published in SLIA Magazine 2008 July Volume

PRK Jayasene/Sampath Jayasekere
M.Sc. Year 11
Faculty of Architecture
University of Moratuwa
Sri Lanka
Project time duration 1 month
Requirement
Dining area for 20 people at any given time
Space for the displaying food
Cooking facilities
Outside verandah with sitting area
Washing area
Toilets
Design
The structure and more appliances and elements in the design are made out of bamboo in various shapes and lengths. Lamp shades stools worktops and even door panels are such.Careful detailing is improved to use bamboo in various compositions with special thought given to fix details and methods.

This is done while not compromising on the distinct of the quality of bamboo and its surface textures. Hence every attempt is made to expose bamboo in its pure, natural form.The structure exudes openness around the spaces; expect for a few cubicles for the service areas such as toilet and kitchen.

Those areas too are designed with air gaps on the top to facilitate unobstructed air flow. Monaragala has an arid hot climate and ample air movement through space is most welcome.The entire structure is raised above ground. These allows for minimum intervention on ground water floor and other vegetation and in addition, keeps away the creepy crawlies abundant in the area, from entering the cafe's interior.

The roof, also made of bamboo has a slight slope to allow rainwater to drain off effectively.The service areas are the only areas lined with cement and they are built to prevent prolonged moisture from coming in to direct contact with bamboo.