Graduate students from King Abdulaziz University, Faculty of Architecture and Planning, Department of Landscape Architecture, have distinguished themselves by winning third place and a special prize in the international competition organized by the French Federation of Landscape Architects in Nantes, France, held alongside the 61st annual conference of the International Federation of Landscape Architects.

Under the supervision of Dr. Amer Mohammed Habibullah, the two student teams competed against participants from 34 universities worldwide, presenting innovative and sustainable strategies to redevelop selected sites in the city of Nantes.

Titled “River’s Embrace,” the project led by graduate student Lama Al-Malki earned third place. The team focused on a site of both natural and historical significance along the banks of the Erdre River in northern Nantes, which faces environmental and urban challenges. Their vision sought to transform the river into a vibrant and sustainable hub.

The project’s main goals included restoring wetlands, reconnecting the river to the city through social interaction spaces, creating a major sports park, and enhancing sustainable transportation links via trams and boats. Design solutions featured floating pathways and pedestrian routes to bring people closer to the water, while integrating green and open spaces along the riverbanks.

The project “Nantes Facing the Loire,” led by graduate student Manar Alzaidi, received the special prize. It addressed the Loire Amont site, where urban neighborhoods intersect with river islands. The project tackled critical challenges such as island fragmentation, social divides, and flood risks.

Its vision was to transform the river from a “geographical barrier into a corridor of connection and integration” between three islands. The team proposed innovative design solutions that balance human needs with environmental priorities, effectively addressing urban, social, and ecological challenges.

The competition aims to highlight the critical role of landscape architecture in sustainable urban planning, tackling global challenges such as climate change and flooding, while advancing both environmental and social sustainability.

The French Federation of Landscape Architects, organizer of the competition, is France’s official representative to the International Federation of Landscape Architects and plays a pivotal role in environmental and sustainable development issues. The International Studio Competition, launched in 2024 to foster knowledge exchange in landscape architecture and urban design, is a global initiative.

The 2024 challenge began in France, where King Abdulaziz University students gained distinguished recognition. The competition will continue in India, Chile, and China, further providing a platform for innovation and international collaboration in sustainable urban design