Karupannya Rangpur Limited’s Greenfield Factory in Rangpur, Bangladesh, has won the RIBA International Prize 2026 for its innovative design, focus on workers’ wellbeing, and environmentally responsible approach to construction. Designed by Nakshabid Architects, the factory is a notable example of industrial architecture that places people and the environment at the center of its design.

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) announced the award in London on 15 October 2026. The seven-story factory accommodates approximately 5,000 workers, most of whom are women. Moving beyond the conventional approach to factory design, the project places particular emphasis on workers’ comfort, safety, and everyday needs.

Inspired by traditional Bengali homesteads, the building incorporates courtyards, gardens, a green façade, and water features. These elements help create a more comfortable and pleasant working environment. Four atriums have been introduced to improve natural lighting and ventilation throughout the building. This approach helps reduce reliance on artificial lighting and mechanical ventilation systems. The factory also provides facilities to support workers’ daily needs, including a medical center, childcare center, dining area, and prayer spaces. Additional areas for rest and social interaction further contribute to the overall working environment.

The award jury praised the project for rethinking the conventional factory building and demonstrating how architecture can contribute to social and environmental change. Green Field Factory shows that industrial architecture can go beyond providing spaces for production to improve workers’ quality of life and promote environmental responsibility. This achievement is an important international recognition for Bangladeshi architecture.

Architect Bayezid Mahbub Khondker with the award jury members

Green Field Factory demonstrates how thoughtful design can create an industrial building that is functional, environmentally responsive, and supportive of the people who work within it. To learn more about this project, click here: Greenfield Factory : Karupannya Rangpur Ltd.