Discourse By The Shore - Architects’ Summit 2025 Concludes in Cox’s Bazar

The first-ever “Discourse By The Shore” - Architects' Summit 2025 concluded on July 12, 2025, at the eco-friendly Mermaid Beach Resort on Pechardwip, located along the Cox’s Bazar-Teknaf Marine Drive.

Over 60 architects from across Bangladesh gathered for two days to discuss eco-tourism, climate-resilient tourism development, and the role of architecture in shaping the future of Cox’s Bazar.

Curated by Architect Marina Tabassum, the summit emphasized sustainable tourism and climate-responsive design, with a focus on preserving Bangladesh’s unique context. The discussions highlighted eco-tourism’s critical role in protecting Cox’s Bazar’s natural beauty amid climate change, while also empowering local communities.

On the opening day, Architect Marina Tabassum stressed the urgency of preserving Cox’s Bazar’s environment, noting that while environmental challenges persist, meaningful experiences for tourists have been lacking. Architect Ehsan Khan, the architect responsible for Cox’s Bazar’s master plan, shared insights on how sustainable development could protect the region's unique environment while fostering growth.

The summit began with a panel discussion on “Eco-Tourism and Sustainability in Architectural Practice”, featuring Architect Marina Tabassum, Architect Khondaker Hasibul Kabir, Architect Ehsan Khan, and other experts. Afternoon sessions featured presentations from seven architects, followed by a guided sunset meditation. On the second day, ten more architects presented their work, and the summit concluded with an open-floor panel discussion moderated by Architect Nahas Ahmed Khalil, with closing remarks from Architect Marina Tabassum.

The summit also showcased an exhibition of contemporary works by renowned Bangladeshi architects, highlighting significant contributions to the country's architectural landscape.

A. M. Ziauddin Khan Pablo, Architect and Chairman of Mermaid Eco Tourism Ltd., said, "As architects, we have a responsibility to design not only for the present but also for a sustainable future. This summit represents a moment where architectural innovation and environmental conservation are seamlessly integrated."

Anisul Haque Chowdhury Shohag, Managing Director of Mermaid Beach Resort, added, “We are thrilled that leading architects have joined us and shared their ideas, which is crucial for the growth of Cox’s Bazar.”

The “Discourse By The Shore” - Architects' Summit 2025 has paved the way for future collaborations and innovations in sustainable tourism development. It provided a platform for architects, environmentalists, and policymakers to rethink Cox’s Bazar’s future, ensuring its cultural and natural heritage is preserved for generations.

This summit has also positioned Bangladesh as a global leader in eco-tourism, sustainable design, and climate-responsive architecture, with ideas that will influence future developments in Cox’s Bazar and beyond.

The event was organized by a dedicated architect team, including Architect Saiqa Iqbal Meghna, Architect Didarul Islam Bhuiyan, Architect Suvro Sovon Chowdhury, Architect Rashed Hasan Chowdhury, Architect Khandaker Ashifuzzaman Rajan, and Architect Tabassum Zarin Tith.