Nantes, France | 6–9 September 2025 | Venue: Ecole de Design Nantes Atlantique
Overview
The IFLA Student Design Charrette 2025 was held in Nantes, France, with 85 students (52 in-person and 33 online) representing 24 nationalities. Among them, the Asia-Pacific Region (APR) contributed 28 students from 14 universities, with 14 students attending in person. This diverse participation highlighted the program’s global reach and inclusiveness.
Design Sites
• Cens Confluence – Balancing ecological sensitivity with urban recreational demands.
• Erdre–Jonelière Port – Repositioning a historic port as a hub for slow mobility and cultural vitality.
• Loire Amont – Diffluence Park – Highlighting the river’s flood dynamics and UNESCO World Heritage values.
• Sèvre – Pirmil and Meadows – Connecting fragmented green spaces through bridges and park systems.
• Grand Lieu – Rezé Pont-Rousseau – Addressing urban densification, slow mobility, and natural connectivity at a metropolitan core.
Process
• Field Investigations: On-site exploration, mapping, and engagement with local communities.
• Team Collaboration: Hand-drawn sketches and discussions stimulated creativity and cultural exchange.
• Design Development: Concepts were refined into digital drawings and presentations for clarity and professionalism.
• Final Reviews: Teams presented their proposals to an international jury and received constructive feedback.
Outcomes
The charrette showcased innovative solutions integrating nature and urbanity, enhancing biodiversity, and fostering resilient landscapes. A highlight of the program was the Awards Ceremony held on 12 September during the Closing Ceremony of the 61st IFLA World Congress, where prizes for the top three teams were presented. This recognition celebrated students’ creativity and brought their achievements to the global stage.
Asia-Pacific Participation
• Fu Jen Catholic University (Chinese Taiwan)
• Chinese Culture University (Chinese Taiwan)
• Chung Yuan Christian University (Chinese Taiwan)
• Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong (Hong Kong)
• Bulacan State University (Philippines)
• University of the Philippines Diliman (Philippines)
• IPB University (Indonesia)
• Udayana University (Indonesia)
• King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology (Thailand)
• Indian Education Society – Mumbai University (India)
• Vivekanand Education Society – Mumbai University (India)
• Dr. Bhanuben Nabavatis’s College – Pune University (India)
• School of Planning and Architecture, Vijayawada (India)
• Victoria University of Wellington (New Zealand)
Conclusion
The IFLA Student Charrette 2025 in Nantes successfully reflected the creativity, energy, and collaborative spirit of the next generation of landscape architects. By engaging with Nantes’ ecological and cultural landscapes, students proposed visionary solutions and built enduring global connections. The Awards Ceremony during the Closing of the 61st IFLA World Congress amplified the impact of the charrette, ensuring international recognition of the students’ contributions.
Award ceremony photos:
Final Presentation photos:
Lobby of Ecole de Design Nantes Atlantique
Group Photos:
