On July 11–12, 2025, the shores of Cox’s Bazar became the setting for an extraordinary architectural gathering, Discourse by the Shore. Hosted by Mermaid Beach Resort and curated by award-winning architect Marina Tabassum, the two-day summit created a vibrant platform for architects, thinkers, and practitioners to replicate on the future of sustainable design.
The discourse centered around eco-tourism, climate-responsive architecture, and sustainable design practices, addressing how built environments can coexist harmoniously with Bangladesh’s fragile ecosystems. From 37 invited submissions, 15 short lectures were carefully selected, offering fresh perspectives on architecture’s role in shaping resilient futures. Complementing these were keynote talks by some of the nation’s most influential voices — Ehsan Khan, Khandaker Hasibul Kabir, Marina Tabassum, and Nahas Khalil — who shared profound insights on how design can remain rooted in cultural values while embracing innovation.
Against the serene backdrop of the sea, the summit provided more than an academic exchange; it was a space of contemplation and interchange. Participants explored how architecture can become an instrument of both preservation and progress, conservation landscapes while responding to the pressing challenges of climate change.
What emerged was not only a discourse on architecture but also an affirmation of community. The gathering brought together diverse practices, from urban design to vernacular traditions, sparking conversations that transcended disciplines and generations.
The energy of Discourse by the Shore was both thought-provoking and inspiring, leaving participants with renewed commitments to sustainability and context-driven design. This landmark initiative sets a precedent for how Bangladesh with its rich heritage and exposed geography can lead global conversations on responsible and resilient architecture.
