The Juliet Centre | Nyami Studio - Designverse设计宇宙

The Juliet Centre was designed as a multi-purpose community hub, providing a space for women’s workshops, education, and vocational training. With solar-powered lighting, it remains accessible beyond daylight hours, supporting long-term social and economic development.

A core element of the project was ensuring that the design and construction process reflected local traditions and materials, reinforcing cultural identity while embracing innovation. The centre’s handcrafted bamboo arches and locally sourced tiles celebrate Sindh’s rich heritage while demonstrating sustainable, low-carbon construction techniques. Workers travelled from surrounding areas to take part in the project, staying in the village to immerse themselves in the process and learn from traditional craftsmanship. By incorporating both traditional skills and modern design, the Juliet Centre stands as a symbol of resilience, adaptability, and the enduring strength of community-led development.

More than just a building, the Juliet Centre represents a lasting partnership between Nyami Studio, the Heritage Foundation of Pakistan, and Pono Village. It stands as a testament to collaboration, cultural identity, and social impact through architecture.

Collaboration

Our collaboration with Jack Rankin stemmed from his friendship with Neil Palmer, dating back to their days at Foster + Partners. Jack has a passion for social impact through architecture, and he eagerly took on the role of design lead for the Juliet Centre, named after his late mother. This project holds deep personal meaning for Jack, embodying the lessons she taught him about the empowerment of education and togetherness.

Construction

The structure features long-spanning, handcurved bamboo trusses that highlight the material’s remarkable flexibility and enduring strength. Bamboo, when properly treated, offers excellent durability and resilience—capable of withstanding natural disasters. Its natural curvature has been embraced within the design, enabling elegant structural spans without the need for bulky supports, and reinforcing bamboo’s role as a viable, sustainable alternative to conventional materials.

Delivered in close collaboration with skilled local craftspeople, the project places traditional knowledge and community involvement at its core. The dual-hexagonal plinth is finished with over 10,000 handmade ceramic tiles, each laid with precision by artisans from the surrounding region. Their expertise was essential in bringing the complex geometry to life, marrying craftsmanship with architectural ambition. The building reflects a holistic approach to sustainable design—rooted in local materials, renewable energy, and hands-on making.

Project Opportunities

Employment Opportunities:
Using bamboo in the construction of the community centre creates a range of job opportunities for both skilled and unskilled local workers—from harvesting and treatment to fabrication and assembly—helping to improve livelihoods and support the local economy.

Skill Development:
Through hands-on involvement in the project, community members gain practical and transferable skills in areas such as construction, teamwork, and basic site coordination, boosting future employment potential across multiple sectors.

Empowerment and Ownership:
Active participation in the building process fosters a strong sense of ownership and pride. This engagement strengthens the community’s long-term relationship with the centre, ensuring it becomes a well-used and well-maintained shared resource.

Education and Training:
Beyond serving as a gathering space, the community centre can act as an informal hub for workshops, training sessions, and local knowledge exchange, offering ongoing opportunities for skill development and capacity building.

Community Development:
The presence of a well-used community centre can attract further investment in essential services—such as healthcare, clean water, and agricultural training— helping to catalyse wider social and infrastructural development in the area.