In a remarkable achievement, South African architecture student Cornelia (Cor) Bosman has won the “Student Winner” category at the prestigious Monaco Smart & Sustainable Marina Rendezvous 2024, organised by Monaco Marina Management. This event, now in its fourth year, is a platform that promotes environmentally respectful approaches to yachting and marina design. Monaco Marina Management (M3) aims to redefine the future of marinas and yacht clubs by turning them into true nautical lifestyle places, drawing traction and attractiveness for tourism and economic growth while placing environmental responsibility at the heart of their concerns.

Bosman’s innovative project, titled “SEAFORESTATION – Calanque de Sormiou: An Innovative and Sustainable Floating Marina,” stood out among 15 projects submitted by 29 students from 9 countries. Her design creatively addresses the challenge of developing a sustainable 400 m² floating marina using recycled materials and renewable energy systems.

Set in the picturesque Calanque de Sormiou near Marseille, France, Bosman’s design showcases a deep understanding of marine ecology. The project site is home to valuable Posidonia seagrass meadows, which play a crucial role in carbon sequestration and oxygen production in marine environments.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Key features of Bosman’s sustainable marina design include:

• A rotating mooring platform that allows sunlight to reach the Posidonia meadows below

• Renewable energy systems that harness ocean currents

• Solar panels for power and desalination of seawater

• A self-funded Posidonia research and reforestation center

• Recycling initiatives to support the project’s functionality

 

 

 

Bosman’s approach not only addresses the immediate needs of a marina but also contributes to the long-term health of the marine ecosystem. Her design philosophy of “solving spatial problems beautifully and regeneratively” shines through in this project. She is keenly aware of the global dilemma of abandoned and decommissioned boats and has cleverly utilised them as the main structure in her design.

The Monaco Smart & Sustainable Marina Rendezvous, supported by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation and hosted by the Yacht Club de Monaco, provides a global stage for innovative ideas in sustainable marine architecture. Bosman’s success in this international competition highlights South African architecture students’ emerging talent and forward-thinking approach on the world stage.

As Bosman prepares to begin her Honours in Architecture at the University of Pretoria in February 2025, this award is a promising start to her architectural career. Her background in ethical business practices in India and her passion for sustainable design positions her as a future leader in regenerative architecture.

Bosman’s project reminds us of the vital role designers play in creating sustainable solutions for our changing world. As she aptly quotes Robert Swan, “The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it.” Through innovative designs like Bosman’s, the architecture community is actively contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.