ocean-driven circular cluster redefines energy production
Designed as an entry for the prestigious Jacques Rougerie Foundation competition, the ‘Baobab Waterfall’ project by Ahmad Eghtesad is a conceptual mixed-use infrastructure proposed for its coastline Madagascar. The island is rich in natural resources and unique biodiversity, yet severe energy shortages leave the vast majority of the population without electricity. This energy crisis is directly contributing to economic hardship and rising crime rates, leading to severely overcrowded prisons. This project seeks to address these interrelated crises through a radical architectural intervention that transforms a social challenge into a profound economic opportunity.
The basic structural form of the complex is largely inspired by the native Baobab tree, a national symbol of Madagascar known for its ability to store water and sustain life in the harshest environments. Mimicking the thick trunk of a tree and the expansive, protective canopy, the main building functions as a multi-story administrative and living hub that rises high above the tropical landscape.
THE floating The design proposes a vast and continuous deep-ocean waterfall system, generating electricity from renewable sources on a scale similar to natural wonders. Constructing a colossal, circular marine infrastructure, ocean water is pumped directly into underground turbines deep below the surface. This dual-purpose structure acts as both a high-efficiency green power plant and a monument. Sweeping waterfalls protect a lush palm-fringed central sanctuary from the open sea, creating an impressive landmark designed to attract global eco-tourism.
Baobab Falls: social renewal through architecture – aerial view | all images courtesy of Ahmad Eghtesad
Greenhouses integrate cultivation, learning and community living
Originally envisioned by designer Ahmad Eghtesad as a rehabilitation facility, the architecture encourages constructive interaction between the inhabitants and the surrounding environment. The central “trunk” features multi-level, transparent greenhouses where inmates participate in modern agricultural training programs. By growing crops and trading goods along sunny sidewalks, they cultivate vital skills for a healthy economic life upon release. Beneath the ocean’s surface, a massive, pressure-resistant glass dome bridges the gap between human innovation and marine biology, giving residents a direct view of a thriving coral reef ecosystem, leaving migratory marine life undisturbed. As crime rates decline and society heals, the modular complex is designed to seamlessly transition into a public eco-resort and green energy hub, ensuring a prosperous, self-sustaining future for the island.
Baobab Falls is a conceptual proposal for the coastline of Madagascar – view of the coast
design is inspired by the shape of the native baobab tree – top down view
