Saint-Gobain Architecture Student Contest 2026 Winners Announced

The 21st Saint-Gobain Architecture Student Contest, focused on transforming a former cement factory site on the Sava River in Belgrade, Serbia, into a Sports and Recreation Hub, has announced its winners. Over 200 universities from 34 countries participated. The first prize, 'Ceding the Sava,' was awarded to a team from South Africa for its open landscape strategy and strong public value. Second prize went to Portugal for 'COEXISTENCE,' praised for its equilibrium between architecture, landscape, and sustainability. Third prize was awarded to France for 'The bird's nest,' recognized for its strong architectural identity and biomimetic design. The Student Prize went to China for 'Meandering Confluence,' noted for its integration of water systems and ecological continuity. The Teacher Prize was awarded to Morocco for 'The Sava Thread,' commended for its site-specific response and social quality. The international jury included representatives from Serbian authorities, international architects, and Saint-Gobain experts. The competition, launched in Serbia in 2004, emphasizes sustainability, circularity, and social design.