Winners of the Saint-Gobain Architecture Student Contest 2026 Announced

The 21st edition of the Saint-Gobain Architecture Student Contest (Saint-Gobain 2026) concluded with the presentation of top projects in Belgrade, Serbia. As one of the largest student architecture competitions in the world, this year it hosted over 1,445 students from 239 universities and 34 different countries [1, 3].

Final Winners and Outstanding Projects During the closing ceremony held in late June 2026, the international jury selected the top designs. First place and the main prize were awarded to the South Africa team from Nelson Mandela University for the project "Ceding the Sava." The team impressed the judges with an innovative solution to transform an old cement factory into a dynamic space [3]. Second place went to the Portugal team for the project "COEXISTENCE," and third place was awarded to the France team for the design "The Bird's Nest" [1]. Additionally, the China team won the "Student Special Prize," and the Teacher's Prize was awarded to a team from Morocco [1, 4].

2026 Design Challenge: Sava River Waterfront Renovation The theme of this year's competition was the design of a "Sports and Recreation Center" in the Sava River waterfront area of Belgrade. Participants were tasked with renovating an abandoned cement factory site and transforming it into a sustainable residence for athletes and a public space [2]. The project included the renovation of the Belgrade Academic Rowing Club building and its integration into a modern, green urban fabric. The main goal was to create a space usable in all seasons while respecting the industrial heritage of the area [1, 2].

Sustainable Architecture Criteria and Standards In evaluating the designs, strict criteria were considered, including operational carbon reduction, the use of recycled materials, energy efficiency, and the creation of thermal and acoustic comfort for users [2]. Saint-Gobain, in collaboration with the World Green Building Council (WorldGBC), emphasized the importance of "sustainable construction." The winning projects scored high not only for aesthetics but also for their response to climate challenges and the social needs of the city of Belgrade [4].

International Presence and Competition Significance This competition provided an exceptional opportunity for future architects to present their ideas on a global scale. In addition to the main winners, teams from other countries, including Turkey, were present in the final. Students from Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University, representing Turkey, had a successful presence with a project based on circular design and reducing environmental impacts [2]. This competition demonstrated that the new generation of architects is ready to build more sustainable and livable cities for the future through creative approaches.