Promenade of great lighthouse in Ras El Afia Jijel
Prize(s):
Honorable Mention 2026 ARCHITECTURE / Landscape Architecture
School / University Name:University of Constantine 3 Salah Boubnider
Lead Designer(s) Name(s):Sara Outouati
Design Team / Other designer(s):Individual project
Professor Name(s):Mm BENDJABALLAH OUASILA
Photo Credit:Self documentation
Project Location:Jijel -Algeria
Design Status:Concept
Project Description:
The Grand Lighthouse Promenade reimagines the coastal front of Ras El Afia by creating a public space that connects the historic lighthouse with the sea. The design promotes calm, sustainable movement through pedestrian and cycling paths, green areas, and minimal architecture that respects the site’s coastal identity. Using local materials and natural light, the project offers a social and cultural space that celebrates Jijel’s Mediterranean character in a contemporary and sustainable way.
The Grand Lighthouse Promenade reimagines the coastal front of Ras El Afia by creating a public space that connects the historic lighthouse with the sea. The design promotes calm, sustainable movement through pedestrian and cycling paths, green areas, and minimal architecture that respects the site’s coastal identity. Using local materials and natural light, the project offers a social and cultural space that celebrates Jijel’s Mediterranean character in a contemporary and sustainable way.
Project Innovation / Specification:
The project’s innovation lies in its sensitive balance between heritage preservation and modern coastal design. The promenade integrates the lighthouse’s historical significance into a contemporary urban narrative, emphasizing simplicity, fluidity, and connection to nature. The design minimizes built interventions, favoring open landscapes and topographic continuity. Local stone, permeable paving, and native vegetation are used to enhance ecological integration and reduce maintenance. Subtle lighting strategies highlight the lighthouse as a cultural landmark while ensuring minimal light pollution, offering visitors an immersive and respectful coastal experience.
The project’s innovation lies in its sensitive balance between heritage preservation and modern coastal design. The promenade integrates the lighthouse’s historical significance into a contemporary urban narrative, emphasizing simplicity, fluidity, and connection to nature. The design minimizes built interventions, favoring open landscapes and topographic continuity. Local stone, permeable paving, and native vegetation are used to enhance ecological integration and reduce maintenance. Subtle lighting strategies highlight the lighthouse as a cultural landmark while ensuring minimal light pollution, offering visitors an immersive and respectful coastal experience.
Project Sustainability Approach:
Sustainability is embedded in both the design philosophy and construction strategy. The project prioritizes low-impact development, using locally sourced materials and natural ventilation to reduce carbon footprint. Vegetated areas improve microclimate regulation and coastal resilience, while permeable surfaces manage storm water naturally. The reuse of existing infrastructure and minimal excavation limit environmental disturbance. Social sustainability is promoted through inclusive public spaces that encourage community gatherings, cultural exchange, and outdoor activities, ensuring long-term environmental and social benefits for Jijel’s residents and visitors alike.
Sustainability is embedded in both the design philosophy and construction strategy. The project prioritizes low-impact development, using locally sourced materials and natural ventilation to reduce carbon footprint. Vegetated areas improve microclimate regulation and coastal resilience, while permeable surfaces manage storm water naturally. The reuse of existing infrastructure and minimal excavation limit environmental disturbance. Social sustainability is promoted through inclusive public spaces that encourage community gatherings, cultural exchange, and outdoor activities, ensuring long-term environmental and social benefits for Jijel’s residents and visitors alike.
Local and Regional Impacts of the Project:
The Grand Lighthouse Promenade strengthens Jijel’s coastal identity and enhances its tourism and community life. Locally, it provides accessible, safe, and inviting public space that reconnects people with the sea. Regionally, it contributes to the preservation and promotion of Algeria’s maritime heritage, positioning Jijel as a model for sustainable waterfront regeneration. The project fosters economic opportunities through tourism, recreation, and cultural events while preserving the ecological balance of Ras El Afia’s coastline. It becomes both a civic landmark and a catalyst for coastal awareness and pride.
The Grand Lighthouse Promenade strengthens Jijel’s coastal identity and enhances its tourism and community life. Locally, it provides accessible, safe, and inviting public space that reconnects people with the sea. Regionally, it contributes to the preservation and promotion of Algeria’s maritime heritage, positioning Jijel as a model for sustainable waterfront regeneration. The project fosters economic opportunities through tourism, recreation, and cultural events while preserving the ecological balance of Ras El Afia’s coastline. It becomes both a civic landmark and a catalyst for coastal awareness and pride.
Lead Designer(s) Name(s):Sara Outouati
