Saint-Gobain reveals the 5 winners of the 2026 Architecture Student Contest

More than 200 universities from 34 countries participated in the 21^st edition of the Architecture Student Contest. Students from all over the world imagined projects to to transform a significant section of Belgrade's Sava riverfront.

The task for this 21^st edition of the international student competition organized by Saint-Gobain in in Belgrade, Serbia, in close cooperation with the World Green Building Council, OneClick LCA, the City of Belgrade, the Academic Yachting Club Belgrade, the Serbia Green Building Council, the Green & Blue Corridors Association, is to develop a visionary "Sports and Recreation Hub" that revitalizes the former cement factory site and integrates the existing Academic Yachting Club Belgrade into a dynamic and sustainable public space.

“In Belgrade, 250 students have come together with one shared ambition: to imagine new ways of living in the city. After months of work and two days of collaboration, they have shown that rethinking urban spaces—making them more sustainable, inclusive, and inspiring—is not only necessary, but possible.

The 21^st edition of the Saint-Gobain Architecture Student Contest once again highlights the energy and commitment of a new generation of architects.

These proposals reflect the complexity of today’s challenges: combining new construction and renovation, adapting to local environments, and designing spaces that enhance quality of life while preserving resources. They also align with Belgrade’s ambition to build a more resilient and sustainable future.

At Saint-Gobain, this vision is shared. For over 360 years, the Group has been committed to developing solutions that support more sustainable construction. And as cities continue to grow and evolve, the role of architects.

This year’s edition sends a clear message: a new generation is ready—ready to take on the challenges of tomorrow and to help make the world a better home.” Patrick Dupin, Group Chief Operating Officer - Saint-Gobain

Every year, the projects have increased their focus on environmental aspects including for example Life Cycle Assessments, while responding to the functional and user needs.

The Architecture Student Contest was launched in Serbia in 2004, this is its 21^st edition. A whole generation of students have now participated in the Contest and is shaping the future of sustainable architecture to make the world a better home.