Bangladesh’s award-winning architect Marina Tabassum has stressed the urgency of preserving Cox’s Bazar’s environment, noting that while environmental challenges persist, meaningful experiences for tourists have been lacking.
She made the remarks at the first-ever ‘Discourse By The Shore’ - Architects' Summit 2025 held recently 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, said a media release on Monday.
Curated by architect Marina Tabassum, the summit emphasised 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.
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.
The summit also showcased an exhibition of contemporary works by renowned Bangladeshi architects, highlighting significant contributions to the country's architectural landscape.
AM 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."
Managing Director of Mermaid Beach Resort Anisul Haque Chowdhury Shohag said, “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 paved the way for future collaborations and innovations in sustainable tourism development, speakers said.
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 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 organised 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.
