Hac Sa Beach revitalization project wins Architecture Award in London

The “Park of Tides,” a proposal for revitalizing Hac Sa Beach in Coloane, has been recognized at the London Design Awards.

The project, led by Nuno Soares, Principal Architect at Urban Practice, has received a Silver Award in the Landscape Design—Public Landscape category.

The proposal, initiated as part of a public tender by invitation organized by the Municipal Affairs Bureau (IAM) in early 2024, aimed to create an accessible pedestrian trail connecting both ends of the beach seamlessly while incorporating leisure facilities.

According to the company, the project was inspired by the natural rhythm of the tides and comprises a design that spans over 12,000 square meters.

The project incorporates a modern, green, and accessible beachfront trail that interlinks with the natural environment while creating recreational value for the beach and its visitors.

Divided into three zones, the project focuses on improving three aspects: leisure with interactive spaces, exploration through natural materials and outdoor activities, and landscape with contemporary design and facilities.

On the project, Soares said, “This design embraces a minimal-impact approach, blending with the terrain through permeable structures and natural materials. It represents our commitment to sustainable and inclusive architectural practices, ensuring ecological preservation while enhancing community well-being.”

He added, “Prioritizing environmental responsibility, we can create spaces that protect nature and contribute to a more resilient local economy and a healthier and vibrant public realm.”

Speaking to the Times, Soares revealed that despite its international recognition, this project did not win the local tender by IAM, with the Architect admitting yet to learn which was the winning bid.

The London Design Awards, in conjunction with the International Awards Associate, recognizes designs that are exceptional in visualizing creative influence and sets out to promote the works of designers in several fields, bringing recognition to those who would surpass the industry.