Liu Mengyan, a student of UrFU Chinese-Russian Institute, has become a third‑degree laureate of the 2026 Russian‑Chinese Student Architectural Design Competition. The competition, organized by the Union of Architects of Russia, was dedicated to creating human habitats in extreme conditions.

Participants were invited to propose innovative architectural and urban planning solutions for Polar Regions, deserts, deep‑sea areas, and high‑mountain zones. Projects were evaluated by an expert jury based on their ability to provide a comfortable, safe, and sustainable environment in conditions traditionally unfavourable for human life.

Liu Mengyan's work — "Architectural Design of a Research Platform on the Northern Sea Route" — presents a concept for a universal base capable of operating anywhere in the Arctic Ocean. The project was defended as a graduation thesis under the supervision of practicing architect Alexey Erin.

The structure is based on modules of reinforced concrete blocks with stable buoyancy, connected by movable hinges. Wave dampers along the perimeter convert wave kinetic energy into electricity, while a lock chamber in the center receives small vessels.

"It is a great honor for me to represent UrFU at such a prestigious competition. Working on a project for extreme conditions allowed me to take a fresh look at the possibilities of sustainable architecture. I was guided by a talented mentor, the Honored Architect of the Russian Federation, Alexey Eren," shared Liu Mengyan.

The competition brought together talented students from leading universities in both countries, including St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, the Moscow Architectural Institute, Huaqiao University, and Chongqing University.

Liu Mengyan's success is not only a personal achievement, but also a reflection of the high quality of practical training students receive at UrFU Chinese-Russian Institute.

Participating in international reviews allows young professionals to enhance their skills, learn about the latest trends in world architecture, and strengthen professional connections between academic communities in the two countries.

Anastasia Pyankova