Fawzia Afia, a 2024 architecture student from Rajshahi University of Engineering & Technology (RUET), has envisioned a transformative oceanarium complex set on the ecologically rich Sonadia Island in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. Titled “A Journey Beneath the Surface,” the project reflects a sensitive and sustainable approach to design, aiming to balance education, tourism, research, and conservation in a single architectural statement.
Sonadia Island, spanning approximately 9 square kilometers, is known for its diverse wildlife and untouched natural beauty. It is home to endangered migratory birds such as the Spoon-billed Sandpiper and Nordmann’s Greenshank, as well as vulnerable marine turtle species like the Olive Ridley and Green Turtle. Despite its significance, the island remains underdeveloped and increasingly threatened by human activities, prompting its designation as an Environmentally Challenged Area (ECA).
Fawzia’s oceanarium proposal responds to these challenges by promoting environmental awareness and offering a sustainable model for eco-tourism. The facility is designed to operate as an educational and research hub, while also encouraging responsible public engagement with marine ecosystems. The project is carefully planned to occupy only 5.6 acres of a 23.3-acre plot, with minimal disruption to the natural terrain. The chosen site elevation, between 19 and 23 feet above sea level, helps mitigate the risk of inundation.
The program includes a saltwater and a freshwater species exhibition space, a conservation block with restricted seasonal access for species quarantine and rehabilitation, and a private research block dedicated to marine studies. The layout is organically shaped by the island’s topography, with elevated pathways allowing restricted visitor circulation without damaging sensitive areas. Bird observatories are strategically placed for viewing migratory species, and native trees are incorporated into the landscape design to serve as natural storm buffers and bird habitats.
The overall design maintains a low footprint, emphasizing harmony with the island’s ecology. By integrating research, conservation, and public awareness, this oceanarium aims to become a vital resource for both scientific exploration and community engagement.
Through thoughtful planning and ecological sensitivity, Fawzia Afia’s project showcases how architecture can become a powerful tool for environmental stewardship.
The oceanarium is carefully designed to blend into the natural landscape, using materials that are locally sourced and environmentally friendly. Its layout minimizes land disruption, preserving native habitats and coastal ecosystems. Educational programs and guided tours promote awareness of marine biodiversity and sustainable practices, encouraging visitors to become active participants in conservation.
Research labs within the facility offer scientists a platform for marine studies, fostering collaboration with global institutions. Rainwater harvesting, solar panels, and green roofs further reinforce the project’s sustainable ethos. Indoor and outdoor spaces are designed to be inclusive and accessible, ensuring that the experience is welcoming to all. By bridging science, education, and eco-conscious design, the oceanarium aspires to set a precedent for future developments in fragile island environments.
