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Dhaka began along the riverbanks, built by trade and the hope for a better life. As the city grew, it carved out neighbourhoods, each telling a different story. Dhanmondi introduced planned modern living. Gulshan rose as the hub for diplomats and businesses. Banani followed, designed as a calmer retreat balancing convenience with tranquillity. Before the 1990s, Banani had mostly two-story homes, tree-lined streets and an unhurried rhythm of life. These were not just residential plots, but homes rooted in belonging. Residents gathered to converse, children played freely under shaded canopies, and greenery was not a luxury. As Dhaka grew and evolved, what changed was not just the skyline but the lifestyles of its residents.
At the centre of this evolution stands Shanta, a developer whose projects go beyond eye-catching architecture and exceptional quality. The sense of community, the value of greenery and the importance of livable spaces have not been replaced but reinterpreted through projects like Shanta Avira on Road 21 and Shanta Celestial on Road 18. Together, they have set a new benchmark for the standard of living in Banani.
Standing in front of Celestial, the first thing that draws attention is its boundary wall. Crafted from a striking combination of marble and metal, it is seamlessly softened by lush green planting. This interplay of structure and living greenery creates an immediate visual impact, where nature and architecture come together in a refreshing way. The arrival sequence unfolds through layered landscaping and a tranquil water feature, leading to a grand double-height entrance that makes a statement. First impressions matter and Celestial delivers!
Inside, the reception lobby is filled with natural light through floor-to-ceiling glass, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere. The use of light and space gives the interiors a calm and airy feel, making the transition from outdoors to indoors seamless. A fluid feature wall with a floating architectural effect enhances this openness, preserving the lightness of the space.
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Finished with carefully curated materials, the party lounge reflects Shanta's refined attention to detail. It provides an elegant and functional space for residents to unwind or host anything from intimate gatherings to larger occasions. Adjacent to the party lounge is a terrace that overlooks Celestial’s landscaped grounds, allowing residents to relax and enjoy the greenery below. This connection between indoor and outdoor spaces creates a true sense of green living.
Celestial stands out for its holistic approach to amenities. An on-site basketball court encourages an active lifestyle, offering residents a dedicated space to stay engaged and energised. A thoughtfully designed accessible walkway moves gently through the greenery, allowing the more elderly to have a relaxing stroll. This is how design reflects a focus on everyday wellness and healthy living.
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The rooftop becomes a shared retreat for families, with a well-equipped BBQ area surrounded by greenery. The same layered landscape experience continues here, with seating seamlessly woven into the green setting. This space encourages social interaction while allowing residents to enjoy open skies and a sense of escape within the city. Overall, Celestial brings together sophisticated spatial design and thoughtful planning to deliver a lifestyle that balances architectural elegance, comfort and wellness-oriented living.
As evening settles, the journey leads to Shanta Avira, where the experience begins with light. It creates a sense of anticipation, inviting one to slow down as the atmosphere begins to shift. At the entrance, Avira welcomes residents with a grand double-height foyer, where the presence of sculptures creates a space that feels thoughtfully curated. It is the kind of welcome that feels fitting for a place meant to be called home.
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Moving further inside the project, the sense of space begins to unfold gradually. Landscaped greens create moments to pause and linger, where a cup of tea becomes an experience rather than a routine. Privacy is thoughtfully maintained, allowing openness without exposure. The relationship between structure and landscape feels intuitive rather than imposed. Illuminated walkways guide movement through the project, passing gently through lush green surroundings.
The reception lobby carries forward the same sense of comfort. A double-height volume complemented with sleek furniture exudes luxury. From there, the attention naturally moves toward the artwork that leads to the party lounge. Designed as a complete entertainment setting, the space is impeccably finished to accommodate gatherings with ease. An adjoining terrace extends the lounge, offering exceptional views of the adjacent park. Strolling further, the fitness centre comes into view - a comprehensive wellness space with branded equipment throughout.
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At the rooftop, Avira reveals one of its most defining experiences. The expansive roof offers uninterrupted views toward the Banani Club field, securing lifelong green views for residents within the dense city. A quiet Zen garden with integrated seating, provides a serene place for pause where residents can escape the pace of the city and reflect.
As one steps away from Avira and walks through the neighbouring park the project comes into view once more. Shadows from planters move gently across the façade, creating a visual calm that endures. From the outside Avira appears timeless, elegant and almost dreamlike. In experience, it remains exactly that, something rare amongst other developments in Banani.
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Shanta's vision has reshaped Banani and transformed it into a canvas where architecture, nature and lifestyles converge in perfect harmony. To truly grasp its essence, one must experience it by visiting these projects in person.
For a more in-depth understanding of the projects, the official website provides further insights.
https://shantaholdings.com/projects/celestial
https://shantaholdings.com/projects/avira
