Saint-Gobain launches the 21st edition of the international competition dedicated to Architecture and Engineering students, focusing on sustainability, energy efficiency and urban innovation
The 21st edition of Saint-Gobain’s Architecture Student Contest offers students the opportunity to tackle a real urban regeneration project. After the 2025 edition dedicated to France, the 2026 contest will focus on the banks of the Sava River in Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, inviting participants to design sustainable and innovative spaces within a dynamic urban environment.
Participation is free and open to Architecture and Engineering students enrolled from the 1st to the 6th year in the 2025/2026 academic year, either individually or in teams of up to three members. The competition represents a concrete challenge aligned with Saint-Gobain’s three core missions: environmental sustainability, energy efficiency and living comfort.
The two phases of the competition: national and international
The Architecture Student Contest 2026 is structured into two main phases:
- National phase: Online registration by 31 March 2026.The Italian final event will take place on 22 April at the Saint-Gobain Italia headquarters in Milan.
A jury will select the three best projects: the winning team will receive €2,500 and access to the international phase, the second and third place teams will receive €1,500 and €1,000 respectively. - International phase: The international event will be held in Belgrade from 23 to 25 June 2026. Winners from the national phases will present their projects to an international jury. Prizes of €5,000, €3,000, and €1,500 will be awarded to the top three teams, along with two special prizes of €1,000 each—one for students and one for faculty members.
The 2026 task: regenerating the Sava River
The 2026 assignment, developed in collaboration with the City of Belgrade, the Serbia Green Building Council, and the Academic Yachting Club Belgrade, invites students to transform a former industrial area along the Sava River into a sustainable sports and recreational hub.
The task includes:
- restoring the Academic Yachting Club, improving its functionality and accessibility;
- creating a new residential area for athletes, integrated with public spaces, cycling and pedestrian routes, and community services.
The project must enhance both the urban and natural context, promoting an innovative and sustainable approach to urban redevelopment.
A history of excellence and education
Since 2004, the Architecture Student Contest has been one of the leading international awards dedicated to Architecture and Engineering students, promoting a culture of sustainable, safe and energy-efficient construction.
The initiative has helped create a global community of young designers committed to innovation and the quality of urban life.
The latest edition in France was won by a team from the École Nationale Supérieure d’Architecture de Bordeaux, while Italy was represented by a group from the University of L’Aquila.
The participation of young talents reflects Saint-Gobain’s commitment to promoting a culture of sustainable design and encouraging future generations to shape the future of living.
Key dates and deadlines
National phase
- 31 March 2026: online registration deadline on the Architecture Student Contest website
- 22 April 2026: national final event in Milan
International phase
- 13 May 2026: submission of the national winning project
- 23–25 June 2026: international final event in Belgrade
For more information, click here.
