Real Estate EN Volume 21

TRAVEL 68

72

VEDRANA

CHRISTOFLE

100

MAGAZINE

NO 21 | APR / MAY 2023

Real Estate magazine covers all current real estate subjects as well as modern lifestyle topics such as architecture, design, fashion, art, travel, gastronomy, and prestigious fresh new releases. The magazine was established in 2016 and is published on a bimonthly basis.

DIRECTOR

Vladimir Popović vladimir.popovic@realestate-magazine .rs

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Gordana Knežević Monašević gordana.km@realestate-magazine.rs

ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR

Jelena Randjelović jelena.r@realestate-magazine.rs

ADVERTISING MANAGER

Dragana Radović dragana.r@realestate-magazine.rs

ART DIRECTOR

Ilija Petrović

IndigoChild indigochild.ilija@gmail.com

EDITORIAL OFFICE

Jovana Nikolić

Petra Vasiljević

Petar Dobrosavljević

Ana Kralj

PROOFREADING

Danica Grujić

TRANSLATOR

Jasmina Djekić

Lazar Petković

+381 11 4320 501 redakcija@realestate-magazine.rs

PRINTING

Zlatna Knjiga Jagodina

Bagrdanski put bb, Jagodina

PUBLISHER

West Media World

Baba Višnjina 38

Vračar, Belgrade

Publisher is not responsible for the content of published advertisments. www.realestate-magazine.rs

LUXURY AS AN INVESTMENT

CIP - Каталогизација у публикацији

Народна библиотека Србије, Београд

659 REAL Estate magazine : real estate, design and lifestyle / editor-in-chief Gordana Knežević Monašević. - [English ed.].2021, no. 15- . - Belgrade : West Media World, 2016- (Jagodina : Zlatna knjiga). - 28 cm

Tromesečno. - Preuzima numeraciju srpskog izd.Ima izdanje na drugom jeziku: Real Estate magazin (Srpsko izd.) = ISSN 2466-4170

ISSN 2812-7293 = Real Estate magazine (English ed.) COBISS.SR-ID 53491721

The expansion of luxury residential construction and the high demand for modern square meters of A-class office space are the current market trends in almost all large cities in the region, according to the analysis of our interlocutors in this issue. The prices of residential properties in Serbia have been constantly rising for the last three years, reaching a peak in Q1 of this year, especially in Belgrade, where apartments in the central city municipalities in both new and old buildings are about 25 percent more expensive compared to Q1 of last year. Although experts expect prices to stagnate by the end of the year, this will not apply to luxury residential real estate in Belgrade and Novi Sad, and probably not in the other capitals of the region either. Luxury apartments in the city center, as well as exclusive villas in modern neighborhoods on the outskirts, will continue to find buyers and rise in price, making them increasingly lucrative investments.

Luxury residential new construction significantly raised the prices per square meter, but it did not reduce the high demand for these types of properties; on the contrary. The municipality of Savski Venac, where the average price per sqm of a newly built apartment reached 4,154 euros and is far above the average prices in other Belgrade municipalities, is also the municipality with by far the most sold apartments in new construction in Belgrade. Such a high price per sqm is certain-

ly correlated with the fact that Belgrade Waterfront is located in Savski Venac, breaking records in maximum prices per sqm from quarter to quarter. This trend perhaps best supports the belief of the UAE Ambassador to Serbia, Mubarak Said Al Daheri, that the BWF will certainly stimulate new investors from the UAE and around the world to develop projects of this type throughout Serbia and the Balkan region. With his Excellency, we also discussed other UAE investments in Serbia, as well as the possibilities of expanding cooperation between our two countries in the fields of energy, renewable energy sources, food and water safety, health, and mobility. We also learned why Dubai is the third city in the world with the most green buildings.

Although the construction of BWF significantly contributed to Belgrade becoming one of the largest construction sites in this part of Europe, the title of city of cranes and capital of new construction is about to be taken over by Novi Sad. In an interview for our magazine, Mayor Milan Djurić confirmed that Novi Sad is currently in the realization of an ever stronger investment cycle, both in the public and private sectors, whereby capital infrastructure projects, which are currently being implemented, are not carried out on this scale in any other European city.

In this issue, we provide a detailed overview of the real estate market in Novi Sad and Belgrade, as well as in Croatia, Slovenia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, and we also discuss the advantages of the unified market of the Adriatic region, which is increasingly on the radar of large investors.

We did not leave out the latest trends in the furniture industry, seen at the recently held Salone del Mobile in Milan, which show that comfort, elegance, rounded edges, and vintage inspiration will not go out of fashion for a long time. Just like luxury housing.

Yours…

HIGHER PRICES ON THE BELGRADE APARTMENT MARKET

The total volume of funds on the real estate market in the Republic of Serbia in Q1 of 2023 was 1.6 billion euros (1,642,369,253 euros), which is 2.6% higher than in Q1 of 2022. The most money was allocated for the purchase of apartments—EUR 861.1 million, of which EUR 537.1 million was allocated for apartments in Belgrade, according to the quarterly report of the Republic Geodetic Authority.

The average price per square meter of apartments in Belgrade in Q1 of this year was about 20 percent higher in old buildings and about 14 percent higher in new buildings compared to the same period last year. The only two Belgrade municipalities in which prices fell compared to last year were Palilula (-17%) and Rakovica (-7%), and only in new construction.

Over the last year, apartments in new construction have risen in price the most in the municipalities of Savski Venac, Vračar and Zemun; the average price per square meter is 25 percent higher. In Q1 of this year, the most apartments in new construction were bought in Savski Venac (326) and Zvezdara (174). As for apart-

ments in old buildings, the biggest jump in prices per square meter, about 25 percent, was recorded in Stari Grad, Vračar and Palilula.

Savski Venac is the municipality with the highest average price per square meter for an apartment in new construction, which is 4,154 euros. Although this municipality is home to Belgrade Waterfront, where an apartment was purchased in Q1 at a record price of 11,474 euros per sqm, BWF is no longer a complex with the most expensive apartments in Belgrade. A comparative review of the average prices of traded apartments in residential complexes under new construction in Belgrade in Q1 shows that the most expensive square meter on average is currently in the Novi Dorćol complex, in Stari Grad, at 4,430 euros. In second place is Belgrade Waterfront (EUR 4,215), followed by Petica in New Belgrade (EUR 2,935), K-District in Stari Grad (EUR 2,761), Sunnyville Premium in Palilula (EUR 1,676), and Savska Terasa in Železnik (EUR 1,157).

Novi Dorćol

Photo: Sunnyville Premium

Photo: GDS

Photo: K-District

Photo: BWF

Photo: Deka Inženjering

K-District

Petica

Sunnyville Premium

Belgrade Waterfront

LUX 51: AN URBAN OASIS OF INTIMACY AND COMFORT

The residential and commercial complex LUX 51 is springing up in a prime location in Bežanijska Kosa, offering a new concept of humane housing in an urban environment, completely tailored to the requirements of a modern lifestyle, and providing peace and comfort for a carefree and secluded feeling that there is no place like home

By: JOVANA NIKOLIĆ

Bežanijska Kosa has always been considered a prestigious Belgrade neighborhood; it is well connected to the city center yet far enough from the city bustle to ensure a peaceful life in the clean air.

LUX 51 is a new address that pushes the limits of comfort, luxury, and a carefree lifestyle in this exclusive setting.

Just seven kilometers from the city center, ten minutes from the airport, one minute from the highway, close to New Belgrade and SC “11. April”, near large shopping chains, schools, and kindergartens, the new residential and commercial complex offers everything you dreamed of when you imagined your ideal home: superbly equipped apartments, spacious green spaces between buildings bathed in

Photo: LUX 51

the sun, ideal for rest and children’s play, always a free parking space, a favorite cafe or restaurant in the area, as well as the possibility to do everything you need for everyday life within the complex. In short, if quality of life is imperative for you, LUX 51 will meet all your needs.

SUNLIGHT-LIT APARTMENTS

The new concept of modern, humane housing was carefully thought out and applied to the smallest detail when designing the complex of 65,000 square meters. Within the complex, there are 280 residential units, ranging in size from 32 m2 to 220 m2, whose structures range from studios to five-room apartments. What is common to all apartments and what makes the entire complex extremely attractive is the location of the settlement in the east-west direction, as well as the architectural solution of the facades, which ensures a large amount of daylight in all residential units. In order to allow even more sunlight inside the complex itself and enough fresh air in the green environment, a 30-meter distance between rows of buildings is planned. The end result of such a meticulously thought-out project is a sense of maximum comfort and intimacy that the tenants will enjoy throughout the entire complex, which

is an invaluable quality that few condominiums today can offer in urban settings.

A THREE-LEVEL PARKING

Another advantage of the LUX 51 complex, which will make your everyday life easier, is that you won’t have to think about parking, which is the biggest problem in all neighborhoods today. Here, you won’t get into a situation where you can’t find a place to park when you get home from work. Inside the complex, as many as 500 parking spaces are provided on three underground levels, which will be available to tenants and their guests, as well as to users of business space, which is also designed as part of the complex.

GREEN SURROUNDING AND ADDITIONAL CONTENT

Thinking about all aspects of a comfortable life tailored to the needs of the modern man and, above all, the family, the investor and designers have carefully designed additional ammenities within the settlement in order to enable future residents to meet all their daily needs in one place in the immediate surroundings. In addition to spacious and landscaped green areas with

content for children and a 600-square-meter kindergarten, inside the complex there will also be restaurants, cafes, shops, and service shops, enabling tenants to meet all their needs while also relaxing and enjoying their free time.

MODERN BUSINESS SPACE

LUX 51 is not only designed for comfortable living but also provides ideal opportunities for modern business. In addition to the residential part, the complex includes 5,500 m2 of business space, i.e., 48 multifunctional premises, which can be used as office space or as

catering, retail, and service facilities. Considering the transit position of the complex, the proximity of the highway and the airport, and the excellent connection to all important city points, LUX 51 is the perfect choice for any type of business. A modernly equipped commercial space with enough parking spaces will provide future users with all the conveniences in accordance with high business standards and, above all, the opportunity to do business in a quiet and exclusive area with an inspiring and green environment.

A SAFE AND ENERGY-EFFICIENT HOME

A perfect balance of greenery, clean air, and sunshine within a carefully designed complex will certainly provide you with a precious feeling of intimacy, freedom, and comfort, but these are not the only advantages of living in this new prestigious settlement in Bežanijska Kosa. The use of up-to-date premium materials in the construction of the LUX 51 complex, as well as the fact that the construction was entrusted to

IF QUALITY OF LIFE IS IMPERATIVE FOR YOU, LUX 51 WILL MEET ALL YOUR NEEDS, OFFERING EVERYTHING YOU DREAMED OF WHEN YOU IMAGINED YOUR IDEAL HOME

the renowned company W.D. Concord West, which constructed more than a million square meters in a number of residential and commercial projects, give you an added sense of security and, most importantly, the comfort of your own home.

Given the great importance of energy efficiency as one of the basic prerequisites of modern construction, this aspect was not left to chance in the design and construction of the residential-commercial complex LUX 51. Quality materials, first-class joinery, and maximum insulation of the interior will enable a high degree of protection of your home from external influences and, above all, rational energy consumption, which will significantly affect the reduction of housing costs.

PHASES AND DEADLINES OF CONSTRUCTION

The construction of the residential and commercial complex LUX 51 has begun in earnest, and work is progressing according to plan for both phases of the project. The expected deadline for the comple-

THE COMPLEX INCLUDES 280 RESIDENTIAL UNITS, RANGING FROM STUDIOS TO FIVEROOM APARTMENTS, 48 MULTIFUNCTIONAL PREMISES, AND 500 PARKING SPACES

tion of all work and moving into the entire complex is the end of 2024. You can follow the progress of the works on social networks, and you can find out more details about the complex itself, apartments, and business premises by visiting the LUX 51 showroom in Bežanijska Kosa.

BIG CEE OFFICIALLY BECOMES OWNER OF CAPITAL PLAZA IN PODGORICA

The largest real estate acquisition in Montenegro has been completed recently, with BIG CEE now officially and legally the owner of the Capital Plaza in Podgorica, which covers a total area of about 85,000 square meters.

Capital Plaza represents a cutting-edge architectural landmark in the capital of Montenegro. It consists of two office towers, the CUE hotel, a residential-commercial complex with 70 luxury apartments, a shopping area on two levels, and four garage levels with about 725 parking spaces.

BIG CEE is one of the major retail developers in Southeast Europe, and this acquisition makes BIG CEE the leading investor in Montenegro.

Colliers Montenegro, which has been operating in the Montenegrin market for more than 15 years, consulting and representing the largest participants in the real estate market in Montenegro and beyond, acted as the exclusive agent in this transaction and coordinated throughout the entire process.

THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE MIA BUDVA HOTEL BEGINS IN OCTOBER

The Chief State Architect of Montenegro recently approved the conceptual design of the five-star hotel Mia Budva, which is planned to be built by the company Mia Investment in the center of Budva. The hotel will consist of two towers of 15 and 16 floors, with a total gross area of 51,920.55 sqm. Over 800 guests will be able to stay in the 144 hotel rooms and 208 apartments that are planned for the towers’ second to fifteenth floors. Public facilities, administration, office space, and an outdoor swimming pool on the roof of the ground floor are planned on the ground floor and first floor. The construction of the hotel will begin in October, after the end of the tourist season. The completion of the works is planned for May 2025. The investment is worth 70 million euros.

Photo: Mia Budva

Mia Budva

Capital Plaza

PORTONOVI OPENS THE DOORS OF AN OASIS OF LUXURY ON THE ADRIATIC COAST

The sapphire water of the Bay of Kotor and the surrounding emerald valleys were the initial inspiration for famous architects to create a unique settlement of superior design, representing today one of the most elite addresses in the region for living, vacationing, and entertainment

By: JOVANA NIKOLIĆ

Photo: PORTONOVI

The prestigious Portonovi settlement was started a few years ago as an ambitious project on the territory of the former Kumbor military base, and today it represents one of the most elite addresses in the entire region. The resort does not live only during the summer months; during all seasons, different cultures, styles, traditions, round-the-clock entertainment, and cultural programs pulsate. A diverse offer and eventrich program entice guests to visit Portonovi and gain a unique experience in every season. This luxury resort hosts numerous attractive events, and visitors can always have an experience unlike any previous, complete with accommodation, restaurants with a variety of dishes, modern art, entertainment, and a cultural scene. All this is more reason to choose Portonovi, one of the most desirable Montenegrin destinations, for one of your upcoming trips.

Located less than an hour’s drive from the international

airports in Tivat and Dubrovnik, Portonovi stretches over almost two kilometers of coastal area and is already widely recognized as an ideal destination for long weekends, but also for living on the Adriatic coast, making it an excellent opportunity to buy or rent a home. A private heliport, the possibility of landing in a modern marina with 238 berths, and a private garage space are just some of the advantages of this settlement, providing additional comfort and security. In addition to numerous parks and magical gardens, Portonovi offers a rich culinary and bar scene with a wide range of local and Mediterranean flavors.

MODERN DESIGN AND TRADITIONAL ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE

When creating this luxurious oasis, special attention was paid to the planning of even the smallest details. That is why it is not surprising that the design of all the residences, which

vary from one-room apartments to luxurious villas, was carried out by world-renowned architects. Their inspiration was not only the sapphire water of the Bay of Kotor but also the emerald valleys that surround it. Also, they managed to combine the modern construction approach with the traditional architectural heritage of Herceg Novi and, in this way, created a real estate offer that focuses on an absolute commitment to pleasure and an experience that will remain deeply etched in the memory of every guest. Each residential unit has its own identity, but all share the essence of Portonovi: peace, refinement, and supreme elegance.

SKY VILLAS

The spacious penthouse apartments are located on the coast, in the very heart of the complex, and represent the epitome of refined life on the Riviera. Each is a unique work of architectural art that exudes the highest level of design, elegance,

and comfort. The interior is a real mix of warm and contemporary design, full of open space ideal for socializing. They include private terraces that offer an unobstructed view of the Bay of Kotor, as well as infinity pools.

MARINA APARTMENTS

The most exclusive address in Portonovi is reserved for Marina apartments, located right next to the coast with direct access to the marina. Positioned in the very center of gastronomy and social life, their perfect location ensures enjoyment of everything that makes this neighborhood special, with top restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops just a step away.

PORTONOVI IS A GREAT PLACE TO SPEND LONG WEEKENDS AS WELL AS LIVE ON THE ADRIATIC COAST, MAKING IT AN EXCELLENT OPPORTUNITY TO BUY OR RENT A HOME

RESIDENCES IN THE SETTLEMENT

A stunning fusion of Mediterranean, Venetian, and Montenegrin influences has produced a setting with an abundance of greenery and flowers, in which some of the settlement’s most beautiful residences are located, just a short distance from the sea. They range from studio apartments to detached villas, but what they all share is plenty of indoor and outdoor space for entertaining, socializing, and relaxing.

A COMMUNITY THAT LIVES 365 DAYS A YEAR

Portonovi is much more than a simple luxury resort; in terms of architecture and hospitality, there is no place like it in this part of

the world. It is a living community, and throughout the year, people from all over the world gather in it to enjoy a life full of adventures.

Every millimeter of the Riviera exudes an incredible bohemian spirit, and numerous restaurants and cafes have positioned it as the epicenter of fun and good times. For all lovers of recreation and body care, top gyms, fitness centers, tennis courts, and outdoor pools are available, as is the Chenot Espace Wellness Center within the One & Only hotel, with expert staff who will provide you with luxurious spa treatments. Also, there is the Pizana Gallery, which regularly organizes cultural and artistic events, exhibitions, and performances, as well as various boutiques and studios of local and world-famous designers. An indispensable part with special charm is certainly the private beach with white sand, as well as the magical, fragrant gardens, where both your body and soul will find rest. All this is more than enough to make Portonovi a favorite escape location, regardless of what time period or where you come from.

For more information about upcoming events at the resort, email events@portonovi.com.

Get information about accommodation reservations at stay@portonovi.com.

For more information about residences, write to inquiries@portonovi.com.

TWO NEW LUXURY HOTELS ARE BEING BUILT ON THE CROATIAN RIVIERA

Almost 18 million tourists, with 90 million overnight stays, visited Croatia last year, which is almost equal to the pre-pandemic record in 2019. Most visits and overnight stays were during the summer, on the coast, where an even greater influx of tourists is expected this year. Many international hotel brands have recognized the potential of the Croatian coast, including Hyatt Regency and Marriott, which will open two luxurious hotels under their names next year.

The five-star Hyatt Regency Zadar Maraska hotel is under construction in Zadar and will be the first hotel of this brand in Croatia. The hotel will be in the redesigned administrative building of Maraska, according to the project that Boris Podrecca did back in 2015. It will include 133 rooms, a bar, restaurants, a spa area, and a conference hall. Behind the hotel, the construction of a residential complex with around 200 apartments, designed by the Zagreb studio 3LHD, is planned. The total investment is estimated at 120 million euros, of which 55 million are for the hotel alone. The investor is the Turkish Dogus Group, which has been investing in Croatian tourism for years. Completion of the hotel’s construction is planned for 2024.

Riva’s Hotel, which is currently under construction in Ičići near Opatija, is planned to open next year. The hotel will have 180 rooms and 12 villas, be rated five stars, and operate under the Marriott brand. This will be the fifth Marriott hotel in Croatia. The value of the project is 70 million euros, and the investor is one of the richest Hungarians, Lorinc Mezsaros, in cooperation with the developer DDG Group.

Hotel Hyatt Regency Zadar Maraska

Riva’s Hotels & Resorts

Hotel Hyatt Regency Zadar Maraska

Hotel Hyatt Regency Zadar Maraska

Riva’s Hotels & Resorts

Photo: DDG Group

Photo: Dogus Group

Photo: Dogus Group

Photo: Dogus Group

Photo: DDG Group

Exclusive sales representative ROYAL

VILE ZUCE: A PRIVILEGE OF LIVING IN NATURE

A luxurious residential complex located near Belgrade, surrounded by lush greenery, with a view of the Avala mountain, is an excellent opportunity for a safe investment and comfortable life characterized by urban comfort, clean air, lush vegetation, and a soothing ambiance

By: JOVANA NIKOLIĆ

Located in an ideal place for living, surrounded by nature and lush greenery, and at an optimal distance from all important city points and highways, between Avala and the IKEA shopping center and the newly opened AVA Shopping Park, the residential complex VILE ZUCE is being built.

Just a few hundred meters from the complex, future residents will have access to regular urban transport, elementary school, kindergarten, grocery stores, pharmacy, medical center,

and local football stadium. The distance from the complex to Avala road is only one kilometer, and to the Belgrade-Niš highway is about two kilometers, allowing a twenty-minute drive to the city center via the highway.

With clean, modern forms, very attractive, and extremely functional, this residential complex is an excellent opportunity for a safe investment and a completely new, comfortable life in silence and clean air throughout the year.

The project team did not aim to fit the villas into the exist-

Photo: M06 STUDIO

Investor: DISENA DOO BEOGRAD

Project: M06 STUDIO

ing environment, but to create a new, modern ambiance next to the Podavala neighborhood. With great attention to every detail, a noble and urban entity has been created, connected to the natural environment in the surroundings, known as “the overflow of the interior into the exterior”.

The architectural design of the urban villas consists of two intersecting rectangles, with ground and first floor, forming a street and courtyard bay window. The project’s geometry is technologically demanding, but the large glass surfaces without pillars at the corners of the living room and the cantilevered steel staircase give the objects visual impressiveness and a special aesthetic. With this solution, the investor wanted to set this project apart from others and leave its personal mark on the settlement.

The complex features six identical luxury villas, with the ground and first floor. The complete new infrastructure of the complex includes an asphalt approach, city water supply, sewage system, and street lighting. Future residents of the settlement will also have access to a new optical network.

A private access road and a video surveillance system with cameras installed on each object, connected to the security system of the renowned company 4GS, provide future residents of the complex with privacy and security. The objects are organized into several units. The ground floor features a spacious living room with a fireplace, kitchen, dining room, one bedroom, and bathrooms. From the living room, you can access the beach area towards the open swimming pool and landscaped garden through the covered porch.

The garage on the ground floor is intended for two cars, with two additional parking spaces in front of the building. Technical rooms for heating and garden tools are located next to the garage.

On the first floor, there is a spacious, double-oriented master bedroom with a separate bathroom with a shower and a freestanding bathtub from which there is a beautiful view of the natural surroundings, three bedrooms with separate bathrooms, and a laundry room. The project also includes two large roof terraces with built-in flower boxes on the first floor, offering a view of the Avala Tower and the surrounding forests and meadows.

Each villa has an autonomous air conditioning system based on heat pumps, independent of the heating season. All rooms, except for the garage and technical rooms, have underfloor heating and central ceiling cooling, without radiators and air conditioners, which guarantees excellent comfort and uniform air

conditioning of the space throughout the year at very low costs.

Installed Smart Home system provides residents with additional options for remote control over cooling and heating systems, lighting, blinds, central irrigation systems for green areas, and pool equipment. Greenery on rooftops and in the yard is watered via automatic irrigation system for green areas. Smart Home system allows insight and efficient management of all future home expenses when it is used. Complete maintenance of the greenery, technical systems, and pool, as well as security, will be entrusted to professional firms.

Modern villas offer their residents unique design, first-class furnishing, and top comfort with high ceilings, French balconies, spacious terraces with luxurious greenery, providing shade and privacy, and completely decorated fenced yard with private pool. A new home will give residents much-needed peace and refuge from the noisy and stuffy city.

Completion of the complex is expected at the beginning of next year. If you decide to buy your new family home in the early stage of construction, you will have the freedom to influence the interior layout, finishing of the interior, pool dimensions, as well as additional yard decoration.

EXPERIENCE MAGICAL MORNINGS IN NATURE, BREATHE IN THE FRESH AIR WITH YOUR LUNGS FULLY! LET UNTOUCHED NATURE WAKE YOU UP INSTEAD OF CITY NOISE!

NEW LUXURY RESIDENTIAL COMPLEXES IN SARAJEVO

The real estate market in Bosnia and Herzegovina is most active in the residential sector, especially in Sarajevo, Mostar, and Banja Luka, with noticeable price growth in new construction. This trend is further driven by fresh, luxurious projects with a modern living concept like Park Residence and Roof Gardens in Sarajevo, which are currently under construction. Park Residence is located in the very center of Sarajevo, on an elevation rich in vegetation, with a fantastic view of the entire city. This residential and business complex consists of five towers with apartments and numerous amenities for condominium tenants, including a swimming pool, spa and fitness center, sports fields, a cinema, and a shopping mall. Just 10 minutes from the center of Sarajevo, on Trebević, the investor XYLLION is building a residential and office complex, Roof Gardens, with 125 state-of-the-art apartments, of which 25 are penthouses with panoramic views. Within the complex, various amenities are planned for tenants, including a spa and wellness center, as well as a central square with an amphitheater, which is expected to become a new cultural scene in Sarajevo.

HIGH DEMAND FOR MODERN OFFICE SPACE IN LJUBLJANA

In the face of insufficient supply and only 3% vacant capacity, high demand for A-class office space in new office buildings in Ljubljana will be partially satisfied in the coming period by the new square meters of several projects under construction, including Palais Schellenburg, Quadro Project, DCB Montana, and Vilharia. The residential and office complex Palais & Villa Schellenburg is located in the central city area, near Tivoli Park, and in addition to 125 exclusive apartments, it offers modernly equipped office premises on the ground floor and on six floors of the Palais building. The offices will be ready for occupancy at the end of the year.

Photo: schellenburg-living.com

Photo: parkresidence.ba

Photo: parkresidence.ba

Photo: roofgardens.ba

Photo: roofgardens.ba

Palais Schellenburg

Park Residence

Park Residence

Roof Gardens

Roof Gardens

His Excellency Mubarak Saeed Ahmed Burshaid Al Dhaheri

STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP FOR THE NEXT FIFTY YEARS

Investors from the United Arab Emirates view Serbia as one of the most attractive markets in the Western Balkans and are heavily present there, especially in the aviation, agriculture, real estate, and energy sectors, says His Excellency Mubarak Saeed Ahmed Burshaid Al Dhaheri, UAE Ambassador to Serbia, in an interview for our magazine

By: GORDANA KNEŽEVIĆ MONAŠEVIĆ

Photo: DARIO KONSTANTINOVIĆ

Even at first glance, the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Belgrade discreetly hints at the image that this Middle Eastern country has in the world today. A spacious, modern building, located in the most elite street in Dedinje, with solar panels on the roof and a carefully arranged spring garden, meets the highest standards of LEED certification and provides visitors with a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere the moment they enter the elegantly designed lobby. Our host, His Excellency Mubarak Saeed Ahmed Burshaid Al Dhaheri, the second UAE ambassador since the diplomatic mission was established in Belgrade in 2014, has been living in Belgrade for six years and is the perfect interlocutor to talk about significant UAE investments in Serbia, opportunities for new forms of cooperation, and the new green economy model that the United Arab Emirates consistently applies in all economic sectors to support the long-term growth of their country.

Last year, the United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Serbia celebrated 50 years of friendly relations, which have been especially intensified since the exchange of state-level visits in 2012. What areas of cooperation have seen the most growth over the past ten years, and how did our 51st year of bilateral relations begin?

— The first 50 years of relations between the UAE and the Republic of Serbia laid the foundation of intensive economic and political cooperation, leading to significant investment and bilateral exchange. Now, major UAE companies are involved in the Serbian market, particularly in the aviation, agriculture, real estate, and energy sectors.

Last year also saw high-level state visits that produced key agreements, including the comprehensive strategic partnership between our countries. The next five decades promise to advance our bilateral cooperation even further to serve the interests of our countries and peoples.

The majority of UAE investors in Serbia are huge and very successful UAE companies with global presence and international reputation. What is the main focus of their businesses, and how satisfied are they with the opportunities offered by the Serbian market?

— UAE investors consider Serbia one of the most attractive markets in the Western Balkans. Bilateral agreements signed during high-level visits in 2014 encouraged UAE companies to identify additional opportunities in Serbia’s aviation, real estate, agriculture, infrastructure, and financial sectors.

In the face of contemporary challenges, such as climate change and the energy transition, UAE

The Belgrade Waterfront is one of the most recognizable projects that our two countries have started

Photo: Aleksandar Matić

companies continue to explore avenues of cooperation with Serbia in the energy, renewables, food and water security, health, and mobility fields. As the UAE places ever-increasing importance on energy solutions, from wind to solar and hydro, UAE companies will likely show elevated interest in high-tech projects that can be pursued in the aforementioned sectors.

Agribusiness is one of the most important sectors of UAE investments in Serbia. What do all these investments include, and how satisfied are both parties with the results so far?

— The UAE places food security at the forefront of its strategic priorities in order to secure a prosperous and stable future for its people. As part of its National Food Security Strategy 2051, the UAE continuously works to identify new locations around the world to boost its agricultural investments. Ser-

which has significantly influenced the trends in the Serbian real estate market and raised its value. How do you assess the current development and importance of this project? Can it serve as a model for new UAE real estate investments?

— Concerning UAE investments in Serbia, the Belgrade Waterfront is certainly one of the most recognizable and concrete projects that our two countries have started. I am serving my diplomatic term during the most significant development phase of this project, which is creating a beautiful and cosmopolitan area in Belgrade for local and international residents. The Belgrade Waterfront has also introduced notable design innovations to the area, as UAE company Eagle Hills has pushed the boundaries of what is possible to establish a tourism and business center with spectacular views and offerings. I am confident that this project will stimulate additional investors from the UAE and worldwide to develop projects of this kind throughout Serbia and the broader Balkan region.

How appealing is the UAE for investors from Serbia, and in which industries is it possible for Serbian companies to be more engaged in your market?

bia has become a reliable partner in this regard, as the country boasts significant agricultural production and food processing capabilities. Consequently, the largest UAE investment projects in Serbia were made by major UAE agricultural companies. Due to Serbia’s efforts to privatize the PKB Corporation, the UAE agribusiness conglomerate Al Dahra acquired the assets of the corporation and its subsidiaries in 2018. As a part of the transaction, Al Dahra invested over the years to enhance its farms, upgrade irrigation infrastructure, and modernize the dairy operation facilities. Today, Al Dahra is one of the main exporters in Serbia to the UAE, boosting bilateral foreign trade and developing local agricultural production. Moreover, Al Rawafed and Elite Agro are major investors in the Serbian agricultural sector. Their established presence in fruit and vegetable processing is a testament to the enduring cooperation between the UAE and Serbia.

The megaproject Belgrade Waterfront is certainly the most well-known UAE investment in Serbia,

— Due to the UAE’s world-class infrastructure and global connectivity, and investor-friendly regulations, the UAE continues to attract foreign direct investment from all over the world. The UAE has been attracting direct foreign investments from all over the world. Regularly receiving top rankings in ease of doing business indices, the UAE is a place where people have found a very attractive zone for business operations and enjoy a high quality of life. Now, the UAE is home to more than 200 nationalities that live in harmony.

Ever since I started my term in Serbia, Serbian businesses seeking to relocate to the UAE have approached me for further guidance. This strongly intensified after Serbian participation in Expo 2020 Dubai, where the UAE and 191 other nations presented a wide range of economic opportunities and market offerings. The UAE Government is working tirelessly to bolster opportunities in innovative fields such as energy efficiency, electric mobility, green buildings, smart cities, agri-tech, and climate-tech, and Serbia’s companies are invited to explore how they, too, can get involved in the UAE’s economic success story for mutual benefit.

Dubai hosted Expo 2020, which received over 24 million visits over six months. How would you

I AM CONFIDENT THAT THE BELGRADE WATERFRONT PROJECT WILL STIMULATE ADDITIONAL INVESTORS FROM THE UAE AND WORLDWIDE TO DEVELOP PROJECTS OF THIS KIND THROUGHOUT SERBIA AND THE BROADER BALKAN REGION

summarize your impressions and insights after organizing such a huge and fantastic event and what could Belgrade, as a candidate for hosting Expo 2027, learn from your experience?

— During the six-month runtime Expo 2020 Dubai, and much longer when counting the preparation process, 192 participating countries turned the UAE into the world itself to showcase the value of international cooperation and celebrate human brilliance. Regular flights between Serbia and the UAE during Expo 2020 Dubai resulted in many businesses visiting the UAE to participate and explore future-oriented opportunities. Serbia’s candidacy for Expo Belgrade 2027, which promotes sports and music globally, will be an ideal way to promote the country and foster new growth opportunities.

Dubai is a city of modern architectural wonders. The Burj Khalifa, with its height of 828 meters, is still the tallest building in the world, and the Mu-

seum of the Future, which is described as one of the most beautiful buildings in the world, has recently been added to the numerous architectural gems. What other structures or future projects would you highlight, not only in Dubai, that will no doubt astound us?

— Intense and rapid growth has taken place in the UAE since its founding as a country over 51 years ago. Numerous mega projects have been built in the UAE, starting with artificial islands, then architectural masterpieces such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Burj Khalifa, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Museum of the Future, and many others. Currently, megaprojects being developed in the UAE include Dubai Creek Tower as the tallest building on the planet, then Burj Jumeirah, the new gem of the UAE, and the Guggenheim Museum in Abu Dhabi, among others. As the UAE continues to build these marvels, its focus remains on sustainability and green construction in urban planning.

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is an architectural masterpiece

Dubai, the city of modern architectural wonders and the third in the world with the most green buildings

Photo: Vwalakte on Freepik Photo: Mohamed Tamer on Pexels

The UAE is among the top ten countries with the most LEED-certified buildings outside the US, while Dubai is ranked third in the world as the city with the most green buildings. What was required to reach this level of sustainable construction, and what lies ahead of you to reach the goal of net-zero emissions by 2050?

— The UAE is a successful model of the new green

economy to support long-term growth. Through its Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative, the UAE is implementing green projects across various sectors such as clean energy, water desalination, green buildings, carbon capture and storage, transportation, infrastructure, and others.

The UAE’s focus on sustainability is an enduring priority in efforts to meet the Sustainable Development Goals. The UAE has established strict green standards and regulations with regards to new construction. Developers are increasingly working to bolster the energy efficiency of buildings using a mix of energy sources. The use of 3D printing is also growing in the UAE construction sector, which ensures that projects are finished quicker with less material waste. As a result, the construction industry is witnessing an increase in updated machinery and tech-driven practices that are contributing to efforts to reach realistic zero carbon emission goals.

Photo: Kevin Vullaruz on Pexels

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the Emirates: sustainability and green construction as a priority in urban planning

IN THE FACE OF CONTEMPORARY CHALLENGES, SUCH AS CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE ENERGY TRANSITION, UAE COMPANIES CONTINUE TO EXPLORE AVENUES OF COOPERATION WITH SERBIA IN THE ENERGY, RENEWABLES, FOOD AND WATER SECURITY, HEALTH, AND MOBILITY FIELDS

In December, Dubai will host the UN Climate Change Conference (COP28). What are your country’s biggest challenges in fighting the consequences of climate change, and how are you dealing with them?

— In light of high temperatures, water scarcity, and significant energy demands facing the region, the UAE has always seen climate action as an opportunity to contribute practical solutions to a global problem that affects all while diversifying its economy and creating knowledge, skills, and jobs for youth. For COP28 UAE, we are passionate about enabling transformational change through constructive partnerships that deliver solutions with meas-

urable outcomes. Hosted by the UAE in late 2023, COP28 UAE aims to transform and urgently accelerate climate action to meet the commitments the world has made to limit global warming to below 1.5°C. Working alongside the UN Climate Change High-Level Champion and the UAE Youth Climate Champion with parties and partners, our objectives for COP28 are to prioritize accelerating the energy transition and reforming land use and food systems while scaling up both mitigation and adaptation and operationalizing loss and damage. COP28 UAE will strengthen the voices of underrepresented and vulnerable communities, embrace changes to advance the real economy, and highlight where

Dubai Creek Tower, the future tallest building in the world

MThe Museum of the Future in Dubai

The Guggenheim Museum project in Abu Dhabi should be completed by 2025

Photo: Denys Gromov on Pexels

Photo: Gehry Partners, LLP

Photo: EMAAR Properties

progress has been made and how to build upon it. Moreover, the COP28 UAE Presidency is focused on adaptation, financing, loss and damage, and mitigation and will elevate key solutions across nature, food, health, and security.

This is the sixth year of your diplomatic mission in Serbia. How much did you get to know our

country, people, and customs during that time, and what will you take away as the best impressions from here one day?

— Since the time I began my diplomatic service as UAE Ambassador to Serbia, my strongest impression of Serbia has been the hospitality and kindness of the Serbian people. The country itself has huge tourism potential, and I have enjoyed every moment here. The landscapes are beautiful, from the plains and wheat fields in the northern part of Vojvodina to the slopes of Kopaonik and Pešter in the south. Serbia’s natural offerings are remarkable, especially the rivers and beautiful mountains from Fruška Gora through Zlatibor and Zlatar all the way to Kopaonik.

THE UAE IS A PLACE WHERE PEOPLE HAVE FOUND A VERY ATTRACTIVE ZONE FOR BUSINESS OPERATIONS AND ENJOY A HIGH QUALITY OF LIFE

“My strongest impression of Serbia has been the hospitality and kindness of the Serbian people,” says the ambassador Mubarak Saeed Al Dhaheri

AMENDMENTS TO THE PLANNING AND CONSTRUCTION LAW: WHAT TO EXPECT

While we wait for the draft amendments to the Law on Planning and Construction to enter the parliamentary procedure, Vladimir Djorić, partner at Zabriskie Studio, and Jasmina Radovanović, head of the Property and Investments Unit at NALED, comment on the proposed changes

By: ANDRIJANA CVETIĆANIN

Photo: Freepik

Our interlocutors agree that the abolition of the fee for the conversion of land use rights into property rights and the provisions that encourage green construction will be the greatest benefits of the amendments to the Law on Planning and Construction if the amendments are adopted in the Assembly, noting that a large number of participants in the public debate prove that this law is extremely important.

What are the main positive changes introduced by the amendments to the Law on Planning and Construction?

Vladimir Djorić: – Recognizing the terms and principles of green, that is, sustainable construction, goes in step with contemporary trends in construction, and it is great that the state has included them in its agenda. I think that this is just the beginning, and things will move forward in the same direction.

As much as one may think that it is a controversial and unfair decision, the abolition of the conversion fee is still compatible with our reality. If in 20 years the state earned about

30 million euros, according to the state authorities, then this means that the conversion was inapplicable and unsustainable. One should be realistic and honest: no one buys a factory to produce, for example, tractors in the middle of the city, but to invest. It is important to separate the principle of conversion from the question of who is buying and how, and from what kind of planning documents we have. If we are talking about conversion as a legal provision, then it is certainly positive that the state gave up on that point.

Transferring some responsibilities, for example, issuing information, from the state administration to legal entities, is an excellent move. I hope it points to the direction in which further iterations of the law could go. In particular, location information is not an administrative act, and there is no reason for the state administration to be overwhelmed with such tasks, especially since there are already parallel flows and services provided by real estate agencies or architectural firms on the market.

One of the biggest smokescreens in the complex system of urban planning is the unregulated status of individual buildings or ambient units. The draft amendment to the law requires the Institutes for the Protection of Monuments to declare whether protection studies are necessary and, if so, to adopt them within a limited period. At the moment, there is a “schizophrenic” situation in certain parts of Belgrade, for example at Neimar. On the one hand, the plans that allow certain construction are valid, and on the other hand, the “protectionists” who removed the protection measures are allegedly working on new protection measures, and in the meantime we have investors

Vladimir Djorić, partner, Zabriskie Jasmina Radovanović, head of the Property and Investment Unit, NALED

THE TRANSFER OF SOME COMPETENCES, FOR EXAMPLE, ISSUING INFORMATION, FROM THE STATE ADMINISTRATION TO LEGAL ENTITIES, IS AN EXCELLENT MOVE (VLADIMIR ĐORIĆ)

Photo: Vladimir Miladinović

Photo: NALED

with their own interests and citizens and interested public who would like to prevent the demolition of certain buildings.

The introduction of the term “project manager” as a new subject in the process of designing and building the facility is also positive. For now, there are no defined competencies and responsibilities, but I believe that it will come to that. This is an incentive for the professionalization of services and raising the quality of design and execution.

Jasmina Radovanović: – The abolition of the conversion fee for businessmen who acquired land through privatization, bankruptcy, or enforcement is the most noticeable change that we welcome. This was one of NALED’s priority recommendations, which will unlock new, neglected, and unused attractive locations for construction and development. In the previous two years, we talked a lot about the importance of abolishing the fee because its introduction, after the comprehensive analyses we conducted, turned out to be a legal and political failure. The positive aspects of the conversion fee are comparatively modest in terms of the state’s realized income on this basis, while the negative consequences, embodied in lost potential income and the preservation of socialist legal institutes, as well as a number of existing practical problems, are significantly more numerous.

Another innovation that can be observed is the definition and clarification of legal institutes, especially in the area of encouraging green energy, as well as the introduction of special certificates for all buildings to be energy efficient, which was done in order to raise the standard of urban construction in the country in the future. It was also proposed to form new institutions at the level of the whole country: the chief state urban planner, the state commission for plans, and the Agency for Spatial and Urban Planning. In exceptional cases, it is also possible to transfer competences from local self-government units to the state, even outside the institutions, in order to make the process of obtaining permits more efficient; for example, it is possible for notaries public and other registered persons to issue information about the location.

In terms of urban-planning activities, I must certainly mention the extremely important provisions for the introduction of e-Prostor, which indicate that the state has recognized the need to digitize the creation and use of planning documents, which is another initiative that NALED advocates. This would

MEASURES AGAINST ILLEGAL CONSTRUCTION

entail a reform of the system of production and distribution of planning documents and other legal regimes governing the use of space, including construction conditions.

The legislation introduced a series of provisions aimed at improving the efficiency of issuing construction permits, such as: the introduction of the institute of “administrative silence”; predicting greater responsibility of authorized persons in the procedures for issuing acts for construction, if the acts are not issued within the legal deadlines; extending responsibility to the plot owner in addition to contractors and investors; the introduction of greater competences of urban inspectors and shorter deadlines for decision-making by authorities on objections to location conditions; making it impossible to dispute the location conditions after the construction permit issued according to those location conditions has become legally binding; conditioning public authority hold-

ers who submit their conditions during the preparation of the planning document that they cannot change them later during the adoption of the planning document, etc. This is also correlated with the activities of NALED, which, at the beginning of each year, monitors and publishes statistics on the efficiency of issuing building permits.

How realistic is it for green provisions to take root in practice, especially in housing?

Vladimir Djorić: – The measures may be modest and will not produce effects in housing construction, but it is still important to move in that direction. They should be greeted. I think that as things continue to develop, urban-economic mechanisms will emerge that will encourage investors to move in the direction of certification.

“It is commendable that there are provisions to prevent illegal construction, so the obligation is introduced for local self-governments to adopt planning documents within three years that will cover at least 70% of the construction area of the local self-government. The term brownfield location is introduced, which represents facilities and contents that have not been used for a long period of time and have the potential for urban renewal, which local governments should list in order to plan their renewal. The old planning documents adopted before 1993 would cease to be valid within two years from the adoption of these changes, with the obligation of the authorities to adopt new ones”, says Jasmina Radovanović.

THE PROVISIONS FOR THE INTRODUCTION OF E-PROSTOR ARE EXTREMELY IMPORTANT. THEY SHOW THAT THE STATE HAS ACKNOWLEDGED THE NEED FOR DIGITALIZATION OF THE CREATION AND USE OF PLANNING DOCUMENTS (JASMINA RAOVANOVIĆ)

Jasmina Radovanović: – According to experience, much will depend on the measures and resources for information, education, and training of officials and the private sector. NALED has extensive experience with earlier amendments to the Law on Planning and Construction, which introduced electronic construction permits, and the Law regulating the registration procedure in the cadastre. At that time, we had massive training programs for civil servants and competent authorities, as well as a special contact center for citizens. The promotional campaign, in which we included a large number of local governments, was extremely dynamic. Also, the coordination of several different ministries is necessary for the reform to take root in practice.

Were the construction industry representatives agile enough during the public discussion?

Vladimir Djorić: – According to the number of people present at the public discussion and presentation at the Serbian Chamber of Commerce, where there were more than 200 interested parties, they were. However, listening to the speakers, I would say that some other interested groups were much more active in the discussion than the construction profession, namely, investors, designers, and contractors. I am not

COUNTERS AND DIGITALIZATION

familiar with the number of objections received, but my subjective impresion is that some personnel decisions within the administrations were a much more important topic for the construction profession than the actual changes to the law. Perhaps this is because the previous model of the law was not so bad. The greater challenge was the application of the law, interpretations, and compliance with the provisions, which largely depend on who and how the law is applied.

Jasmina Radovanović: – It is commendable that there was a public debate, sometimes even heated. This shows how important this law is and how many different areas it regulates, which significantly affect citizens and the economy. NALED received many comments from members, including construction companies, but it is interesting that they did not advertise publicly, which may indicate that they agree with the announced changes. We made a lot of proposals for improving the draft law, and we have assurances from the Ministry that a large part of our proposals have been accepted. It remains to be seen which text will enter the Assembly. In the past, modifications made in Parliament resulted in considerable changes to some decisions. Nothing is final until the President of the Republic signs the decree on the promulgation of the law.

The adjustments in one area put the focus back to the counters, as Vladimir Djorić already noted. “It sounds paradoxical, but it won’t waste time. Moreover, obtaining conditions, for example, from EPS or JP Srbijagas, outside of the unified procedure, before submitting the request for location conditions, is something that will speed up the procedures. It is, of course, absurd that this, in a way, gives up on the digitization of state administration. It is obvious that some systems are so big and slow that they behave like a state within a state. It would be great if the issue of their agility was solved digitally instead of counters as an alternative,” says Djorić.

Photo: Freepik

NOVI SAD IS REALIZING ITS DREAMS

"Mass construction of residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects turned Novi Sad into a "city of cranes" and the largest construction site in this part of Europe. With 26,000 more inhabitants compared to the previous census, following new demands, we are becoming a capital of newconstruction in Serbia", Milan Djurić, mayor of Novi Sad, says in an interview for our magazine

By: GORDANA KNEŽEVIĆ MONAŠEVIĆ

Photo: OFFICE OF THE MAYOR OF NOVI SAD

MILAN ĐURIĆ, mayor of Novi Sad

We know how much the people of Novi Sad love and cherish their city, but in recent years, it seems they have decided to double its capacity, both in width and height. The construction boom, boosted by unprecedented public and private investments, is visible at every step. New state-of-the-art residential and office complexes are springing up all over the city, more square footage has been in demand in industrial zones for a long time, and the capital infrastructure projects that are currently being implemented on this scale are not being implemented in any other European city. While getting a new face and changing its urban image, Novi Sad is also doing everything to keep its soul but also “purify the lungs” of the city, with the aim of being declared the Green Capital of Europe after it has already been acknowledged as the European Capital of Culture. We talked about all this with Milan Djurić, the mayor of Novi Sad, who proudly points out that Novi Sad is currently realizing everything that it used to dream about and that all new projects will significantly improve the quality of life in this city and certainly attract even more investments.

Novi Sad is in the process of realizing its biggest investment cycle. The city budget for 2023 foresees 14.4 billion dinars for 195 projects. For which projects have the largest funds been allocated? What will be improved and new in Novi Sad by the end of the year?

— The fact that the city budget for 2023 is planned at 40.65 billion dinars and is 153 percent higher, i.e., by 24.56 billion dinars, compared to 2012, when the realization of the budget was 16.09 billion dinars, clearly speaks of the growth of the public finances of our city. This is the result of great effort and work over the last ten years to attract and realize foreign and domestic investments. Increased economic activity in the area of Novi Sad, which recorded continuous growth from 2012 until today, contributed to an increase in employment, which, as a result, led to an increase in the total income of the city and thus the volume budget. This improved the quality of life in the city itself, primarily through the realization of numerous capital investments but also through the improvement of the communal system, increased investment in education, health, culture, and sports, as well as realizing greater rights for cit-

Novi Sad

Photo: Aleksandar Milutinović

izens in the fields of social and child protection. I will single out several large capital projects. These are the new bridge over the Danube in the extension of Bulevar Evrope, the bypass around Novi Sad, the new pedestrian and bicycle bridge over the Danube, which rises on the pillars of the former Franz Joseph bridge, another new bridge, also over the Danube, on the route of the Fruškogorski corridor, the development of the Almaš area, regional waste management system, construction of traffic areas with accompanying infrastructure – Mišeluk 3, construction of a bicycle path on the Novi Sad-Rumenka-Irmovo-Kisač-Čenej section and the Novi Sad-Begeč bicycle path from Sime Matavulja Street in Novi Sad to Dunavska Street in Futog, construction of the roundabout near Bulevar Cara Lazara and Fruškogorska Street, construction of an elementary school in the Jugovićevo settlement, construction of the “Laza Kostić” Gymnasium, construction of the cultural center facility in the Bistrica settlement, reconstruction and extension of the “Desanka Maksimović” Primary School facility in Futog, construction of the health center in the Vidovdan settlement, construction of a sports complex in Futog and much more.

One of the most important city projects is the complete revitalization of the Almaš area, a protected cultural and historical entity, which includes the reconstruction of 600 houses and new infrastructure in 20 streets. What will be done on this project during this

year, and what will this neighborhood, which they call the soul of Novi Sad, look like in the end?

— The spatial cultural-historical unit Almaš area, at the proposal of the Institute for the Protection of Cultural Monuments of the City of Novi Sad, was designated as a cultural asset by the Government of the Republic of Serbia in 2019. The protection of this area preserves the very idea of the city as a layered creation, whose facades and historical significance can be seen in the streets. The total area of the fortified unit, together with the protected environment, is slightly less than 23 hectares. It is located in the southeastern part of Novi Sad and encompasses most of Podbara. This project is part of the joint reconstruction project of the City of Novi Sad and the Autonomous Province of Vojvodina, which was also confirmed by the signing of the agreement on joint investment, realization of investment, and ongoing maintenance projects. The restoration of the Almaš area is a very complex undertaking because it involves a large number of participants, from the Institute for the Protection of Monuments to security guards, holders of public authorities, and contractors. We also established a working body and have coordination meetings once a week so that there are no delays. In 2022, the conceptual solution was first prepared and presented publicly to the residents of the Almaš area, and then the draft of the project was prepared. It is planned to work in several stages, but each individual stage includes all the planned works so that, when it is finished, the entire street will be renovated, from the

The bridge over the Danube, in the extension of Bulevar Evrope, is part of the ring road around Novi Sad

infrastructure to the facades and roofs. Work is underway on the 2nd phase in the streets of Sava Vuković, Zlatna greda, Skerlićeva, Djordje Jovanović, Milovan Vidaković, part of Zemljane ćuprije, and part of Nikola Pašić, and this year public procurement is also planned for another phase of works in another 10 streets. What will this neighborhood look like when it’s all over? The way European capitals look, because Novi Sad did not get its title of European Capital of Culture for no reason. We are part of the family of European cities, and we are very proud of that.

All these projects, along with more than 250 major private construction investments currently being implemented, make Novi Sad one of the largest construction sites in this part of Europe. Many new residential and office complexes have already sprung up, and even more are in the pipeline. How do you, as a mayor but also as a citizen of Novi Sad, see the new urban image of your city, and how much do you like it?

— We make our dreams come true. We realize everything that was once a dream. That’s right, Novi Sad is becoming the largest construction site in this part of Europe. To a large extent, those from the private sector, which have been expanding in our city in recent years, contribute to all public investments. In March alone, a total of 452 requests for building permits were submitted. This speaks precisely about the development of our city, where the entire environment and economic climate have been changing for the last ten years. Today, more square footage is required in our industrial zones, and the same is true when it comes to housing and office premises. This year we are starting the second phase of the development of the city center, we are finishing the construction of two public garages, and at one point we will be building three bridges at the same time. There are currently two active bridge construction sites. We will continue to develop our city and invest in all its segments. We will try to make Novi Sad, which has already won two titles, namely the European Capital of Culture and the Youth Capital of Europe, the holder of the third one, the Green Capital of Europe.

Residential construction is in full swing in Novi Sad. In which parts of the city are the most new buildings springing up, and what other locations could be attractive to investors in accordance with the urban plan of the city?

— In recent years, our city has been the “city of cranes” due

THIS YEAR, WE WILL BEGIN THE SECOND PHASE OF DEVELOPMENT IN THE CITY CENTER, COMPLETE THE CONSTRUCTION OF TWO PUBLIC GARAGES, AND BUILD THREE BRIDGES AT THE SAME TIME

New settlement in Jugovićevo, with apartments for members of the security forces

New kindergarten in Grbavica

to the massive construction of residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects. Novi Sad has 26,000 more inhabitants compared to the previous census, and, according to the new demands, we are becoming a kind of capital of new construction in Serbia. The most important thing is that we got back on our feet, both as a city and as a country, and that we created an environment that is attractive to investors. Residential buildings are built in practically all settlements, but Telep, Podbara, and Petrovaradin stand out in terms of the number of construction sites. In addition to private investors, the state and the city are also investing, and we were also part of a global project. A new settlement with apartments for members of the security forces sprung up on Jugovićevo, then we built apartments for refugees and displaced persons through the Regional Housing Program, which provided permanent care for 600 families. There is currently a public call for solidarity apartments at the entrance to Veternik, in Momčilo Tapavica Street. Work on these buildings is still in progress, and so far two of the six slats have been completed. A total of about 200 apartments will be intended for families with low average incomes who have several family members, most of whom are children. In this way, we are trying to solve the problem of social housing for that category of population. So, the image of our city is constantly changing in terms of housing. Recently, the tendency has been for the city to expand in width, so the Srem side of the city is developing intensively. Thus, we allocated almost one bil-

lion dinars from the city budget for the implementation of the project in Mišeluk. This implies the construction of communal infrastructure for a completely new part of the city for housing, which in the future, I believe, will be one of the most beautiful settlements in Novi Sad. Also, according to the urban plan of the City of Novi Sad until the year 2030, it is planned to renovate the location on Trandžament in Petrovaradin, and a general city center south of the Futoški put is planned.

Construction of new and reconstruction of old office buildings, expansion of the free zone, new logistics centers, and industrial facilities—this entire sector of commercial real estate in Novi Sad is evidently expanding. Which new projects of this type will be implemented this year?

— We are proud of the fact that more square footage is required in our industrial zones because this promises prosperity for the entire city and the entire community and is associated with new factories and new jobs. The world’s biggest names operate in Novi Sad today, and we, as a city, are doing everything we can to expand that list. Currently, Continental, Nidec, Barry Callebaut, Lear, Aptiv, and BMTS are on that list; they are all leaders in their industries and activities. We fight for new investments every day, and in the coming weeks I expect to share the good news about new investments with our fellow citizens. Currently, the working zone Kać, which has huge potential, Sever 4, but also

The revitalization of the Almaš area is a joint project of the provincial and city authorities

Sever 1, are still being developed, and we as a city are doing everything when it comes to the development of communal infrastructure in order to ensure the conditions for doing business in these zones.

What certainly increases the investment and any other value of Novi Sad are capital infrastructure projects: the construction of the Fruškogorski corridor, as many as three new bridges, the construction of the high-speed railway to Subotica... How far along are all of the aforementioned projects, and is it even possible to quantify the extent to which this infrastructure will improve Novi Sad’s quality of life and business environment?

— All these projects record progress and show strong intensity in their implementation. The projects you mentioned are vital, strategic, and very important, so they will undoubtedly greatly affect the quality of life of the people of Novi Sad and all those who come to our city. In Novi Sad this year, we will build three new bridges that will connect the Bačka and Srem sides across the Danube river, and two are currently under construction. It sounds unreal, as if we were choosing, but in principle, all three bridges were planned a long time ago. It will contribute to the relief of traffic jams, connect Novi Sad directly to the Fruškogorski corridor, move heavy freight traffic out of the city, reduce harmful gas emissions... By building a pedestrian-bicycle bridge, in addition to creating a huge tourist potential, in the future we will also organize the Petrovaradin suburb as

a pedestrian zone. The construction of three bridges brings so many fundamentally good things to our city, but also to our country, that a few minutes are not enough for me to tell you all about them. We are actively involved in the railway project, which is of national importance, every day. Work is being done intensively on the construction of the railway to Subotica, the completion of which is planned by the end of 2024. The high-speed train “Soko” has become a favorite means of transport for all of us, so now we enjoy a fast, comfortable, and safe ride. I am convinced that by building the railway in its entirety, this project will further affect economic growth, all economic indicators, and the ultimate satisfaction of citizens and visitors.

Novi Sad is an extremely attractive tourist destination. There are more and more river tourists, and you are also known as the host of amazing events. To what extent do the existing hotel facilities meet the needs? Are there any additional hotels planned to be built, such as the current project of the Hyatt hotel that will be built on the site of the existing Park hotel?

— Last year, Novi Sad recorded over 560,000 overnight stays, which is 30 percent more than in the year preceding the pandemic, and a record when it comes to tourism. Numerous promotional campaigns, both in Serbiam and in the regionm and in certain European countries, contributed to this. That Novi Sad is a notable destination has been confirmed at each of the ten tourism fairs where our city’s

Banovina public garage, one of two under construction

The Continental factory in the Kać industrial zone is the biggest investment of this German company in Serbia so far

offer has been presented since the beginning of the year. Novi Sad’s hotels are well occupied, and this percentage is significant even in the winter months. During large events, such as the Agricultural Fair, Exit Festival, large business gatherings, or sports events, as a rule, more rooms are required. Last year, a new Element hotel opened in Novi Sad, along with several other lodgings that are currently in the process of being categorized as hotels. Also, the number of accommodation units owned by citizens is constantly growing. On the other hand, it is expected that the closure of the Park Hotel and the permanent increase in the number of tourists, as well as business visitors, will create certain problems due to the lack of accommodation capacity in the coming period. Some of the hotels have shown interest in expanding their capacity, but for now we do not have precise information about the opening of new accommodation facilities. All this will, to some extent, be compensated by the construction of the Hyatt hotel in three years. And not only that, the arrival of the world’s major hotel chains (Sheraton, Hyatt) points to the fact that Novi Sad is recognized as a city with an enviable tourist offer. Also, this points to the fact that the city is recognized as a congress destination where, very soon, M.I.C.E. tourism will take on a large role and be one of the more dominant forms of tourism. It is well known that business visitors stay in high-category hotels, longer on average, and spend significant money at the destination. All of the above could greatly influence

other potential investors to opt for Novi Sad, and accordingly, we can expect an increase in the number of accommodation units in the coming period.

Last year, Novi Sad very successfully carried out the title of European Capital of Culture. One of its greatest achievements is certainly the establishment of the Creative District as a center for young artists and creative activities. How much will this district refresh the cultural scene of Novi Sad this year?

— We are very proud of the fact that Novi Sad was the European Capital of Culture in 2022. It was a project of national importance for the Republic of Serbia since it contributed to the development of infrastructure, wider access to culture, improvement of the image of the city, development of the tourism industry, and strengthening of the cultural and creative industries. The most significant infrastructure projects are the newly built and adapted facilities in the network of cultural stations (Svilara, Edjšeg, Barka, Bukovac, Rumenka, Liman and others), the Creative District with 13 facilities intended for cultural projects, and the Music and Ballet School, which houses the city’s first concert hall. The arrangement of the Creative District, which is one of the legate projects of the European Capital of Culture, significantly changed the appearance of the city. The work is still ongoing, and the plan is to finish everything in the next five years. A draft document is being prepared

The Creative District has 13 facilities intended for cultural projects

that will regulate the conditions of use of space in the District because we want to ensure that its use is exclusively in the service of culture.

Development of energy efficiency, subsidies for solar panels and the purchase of bicycles, improvement of waste management, greening of public areas—these are just some of the activities that are bringing Novi Sad closer to the title of the Green Capital of Europe. What would you single out as the most significant green projects for this year, and what further goals have you set for Novi Sad to truly become a green city?

— The City Administration for Environmental Protection in Novi Sad was the first in Serbia to set aside money in 2021 for the purpose of supporting residents’ purchases of new bicycles in the amount of 10,000 dinars. This activity greatly contributed to the increase in the number of cyclists on the streets of Novi Sad, with the tendency for bicycles to largely replace the use of cars in the coming years. In 2023, we decided on 20 million dinars for citizens, and

the amount of the individual subsidy for the purchase of a bicycle is 12,000 dinars per natural person. During the last year, a public call for the participation of business entities in the implementation of the measure of energy renovation of family houses through the installation of solar panels was implemented, and in February 2023, a new public call was announced. In addition, all the necessary documentation for the construction of the Regional Center for Waste Management was completed last year. It passed all the necessary verifications by the authorities and was also positively evaluated by the expert commission of the European Union. Currently, work is being done on the design and technical documentation for the arrangement of a new park unit along Bulevar Cara Lazara, on an area of 1.1 ha. Also, the development of technical documentation for the University Park, on an area of 5.2 ha, is in progress, for which the funds are provided partly from the Ministry of Trade, Tourism, and Telecommunications and partly from the city treasury. I would also like to highlight the construction project of the Botanical Garden in Petrovaradin, on an area of 4.2 ha, for which the design and technical documentation are currently being prepared, as well as one innovative project in the field of greening: a vertical green wall with a length of 440 m and an area of 880 m2, which stretches along the dividing strip in the Narodnog Fronta Street. We are taking big steps towards making Novi Sad the Green Capital of Europe!

THE BIGGEST GLOBAL BRANDS CURRENTLY CONDUCT BUSINESS IN NOVI SAD, AND THE CITY IS WORKING HARD TO EXPAND THAT LIST

“We are taking big steps towards making Novi Sad the Green Capital of Europe,” says Milan Djurić

INOBAČKA: BUILDING IN SYMBIOSIS WITH THE AUTHENTIC SPIRIT OF NOVI SAD

In addition to innovations in construction, the company Inobačka is also recognizable for investing large resources in preserving the greenery and historical heritage of Novi Sad, which is an expansion of its infrastructural development

By: IVANA BRCAN

Photo: INOBAČKA

Hotel and business complex Hyatt Regency Novi Sad and Trinity Park

Inobačka, a family construction company based in Novi Sad, has been operating in the construction sector for three decades, dealing with construction investments, design and construction, prefabricated production, the development of infrastructure projects, and the construction of science and technology centers and business facilities. However, with the maturing of the company, more challenging projects occurred, such as hotel complexes and, recently, the unique and specific construction of the first underground garages in Novi Sad.

Along with innovations in construction, the company is also recognizable for investing large resources in preserving the greenery and historical heritage of the City of Novi Sad, which is expanding its infrastructural development. The owners of the company Inobačka, Vukajlo Babić and Danilo Babić, speak for our magazine about the most important projects they are working on currently.

Your company signed a concession contract for the construction of four public garages in Novi Sad, and the pro-

ject of underground garages in the very center of Novi Sad, in Modena Street and near Banovina, is also the subject of scientific geotechnics research. How is the implementation of garage projects going, and what makes this construction so specific?

Vukajlo Babić: — Public garages are built according to the public-private partnership model. The construction of the Banovina public garage is coming to an end and will be in operation by the end of the year, while the Modena public garage is in the construction phase and is planned to be in use for citizens in the spring of 2024. The remaining two garages, located at Trg Republike and Šafarikova Street, are still in the conceptual design phase. Since Novi Sad is a very specific environment for construction, as it has an extremely high level of underground water, these two projects were very challenging for the excavation of foundation pits and the protection of excavations. The entire work was preceded by a detailed geotechnical and groundwater level lowering study, which provided guidelines for the construction of the foundation pit. All construction work was spe-

Vukajlo Babić (left) and Danilo Babić, owners, Inobačka

cific. The foundation pit at the Banovina underground garage was protected by a so-called pile curtain, and the depth of the foundation pit was up to 11 meters. Even more complex works were carried out on the Modena underground garage, which was designed on three levels. The excavation work was preceded by the relocation of existing installations and infrastructure, where the most demanding part was the relocation of the main heating pipe and its preparation for the heating season. The support for the excavation of the foundation pit was made with reinforced concrete diaphragms about 30 meters long, and the depth is a record in Novi Sad at about 17 meters. Considering the proximity of the neighboring buildings, the Tanurdžić Palace, the Cathedral, and other buildings under the protection of the City of Novi Sad, it was necessary to implement extensive measures to protect the excavation with a system of steel struts on two levels. Many of these ventures were carried out for the first time in our city. All work was done in a top-quality and professional manner. When you consider that digging deeper than 5 to 6 meters underground is very rare in Novi Sad due to the level of underground water, you understand why these works were so complex and specific and why scientific papers are written about them.

Inobačka is one of the few construction companies that puts the preservation of the environment and the authenticity of the city center above profit. In order to preserve the poplar tree line during the construction of the Banovina underground garage, it gave up 40 parking spaces, which is why the project was subsequently changed. How important is environmental awareness nowadays?

Danilo Babić: — Perhaps it is the most important. We believe that any modern construction must be environmentally friendly as well as socially conscious. Our company’s position is to remain consistent in nurturing authentic Novi Sad architecture, which we managed to do by restoraing a building from the beginning of the 20th century in Železnič-

ka Street in Novi Sad. We try to preserve every historical feature of the building that is in our hands, and we do it without exception if the circumstances allow it. Thus, precisely at this address, with the consultation of the Faculty of Agriculture of the University of Novi Sad, two 70-year-old trees were preserved, which are now located in the greenhouse within the building, thus ensuring their unhindered further development. The building at this location was used for the needs of the National Bank of Serbia, and now it is of historical importance for this city and is under the protection of the Institute for the Protection of Cultural Monuments, and we restored it to its original form from 1920 through conservation work, both functionally and aesthetically. We are very pleased that starting this summer, our company’s headquarters and business center will start working at this very location, in a building that was built in the last century. On the ground floor of our business center, the Regus Center, a world-renowned chain for flexible, i.e., hybrid, ways of working, with modern offices for coworking, will be located.

One of the more challenging eco-projects in front of you is the construction of a hotel-business complex on the site of the current Park Hotel, next to Futoški Park in Novi Sad. The entire complex was designed in accordance with LEED standards. What does this “green complex” mean to Novi Sad?

Vukajlo Babić: — This project is undoubtedly one of the largest investments in Novi Sad, worth as much as 107 million euros. The hotel-business complex will consist of the Hyatt Regency Novi Sad hotel and premium office premises in the Trinity Park facility. This is the first urban complex of its kind, contributing both to ecology and tourism. With the arrival of one of the world’s largest hotel chains, Novi Sad will position itself as the center of international congress tourism in Vojvodina, and with its opening in 2026, the city will get the largest congress center, with an area of 1,900 square meters and a capacity of almost 1,000 seats. At the same time, this is also an ecological project, since the entire complex is based on the use of green energy, that is, renewable ener-

Modena underground garage

Banovina underground garage

gy sources, in accordance with LEED standards and the carbon-free system. And we are talking about the latest world recommendations when it comes to energy efficiency and environmental protection. The entire complex is designed as the most efficient possible system, which includes highly efficient air conditioning chambers with double adiabatic humidification of the return air, which practically reduce the cooling needs, i.e. reduce the cooling capacity of the energy block by 40 percent. By doing so, they reduce consumption and all the negative impacts of non-ecological energy sources. The area around the current hotel will be completely greened, and the ginkgo tree, which is protected as a natural monument, will be the centerpiece of the new project and its trademark. Special attention will be paid to the preservation of the spa area and the SPA center so that they remain authentic and in the spirit of the Jodna Banja, which is located in the immediate vicinity of the hotel in Futoški Park and has been a recognizable symbol of Novi Sad since the 19th century.

The Hyatt Regency brand is famous in the world of hospitality. This will be the second hotel under the Hyatt brand in Serbia, considering that the first one was opened 30 years ago in Belgrade. What will this hotel offer to the people of Novi Sad?

Danilo Babić: — We opted for Hyatt International as the operator of our hotel because we share the same business values and strategic goals in the direction of the development of congress and wellness tourism. The future hotel will be absolutely accessible, with all its facilities, to the residents of Novi Sad. We would like that the people of Novi Sad spend more time in Futoški Park, which is one of the most beautiful green oases in Novi Sad. Experts in horticulture and afforestation from the Faculty of Agriculture of the University of Novi Sad are engaged in additional greening of the entire environment around the hotel so that the volume of green areas will increase. The hotel will have 242 luxury rooms, seven meeting rooms, a 1,900-square-meter congress center, an 800-square-meter reception hall, a spa center with an outdoor pool and a view of Futoški Park. We will employ about 250 people, and our restaurant and catering facilities will have a direct connection with the city. One of the innova-

tions is that the Hyatt Regency Novi Sad hotel will be open to everyone, not just hotel guests. It was designed in such a way that the flow of pedestrians and the contents of the F&B restaurant at all times enable the fluctuation of citizens in the entire area around the hotel and within the hotel itself.

In addition to green construction, you also pay attention to the implementation of innovations such as prefabrication. One of the last projects you built using this technology is the residential and business complex Park Novi Residence in Novi Sad. What makes this technology and the facility itself so specific?

Vukajlo Babić: — So far, we have built more than 350,000 square meters of residential and commercial space using offsite precast technology, and during the last 10 years, we have achieved savings in the consumption of wooden formwork and reduced waste material by more than 30 percent. This month, we completed the construction of the Park Novi Residence residential and office complex, which is the only closed-type condominium in Novi Sad. We give importance and priority to projects that contribute to the quality of life and proximity to the natural environment. The complex covers more than 56,000 square meters with six units and two underground floors with more than 530 parking spaces. The surroundings of the complex itself are impressive because it is located in the extension of the new city park, which includes 35,000 square meters of greenery and modern park facilities. The introduction of new technologies in the construction of residential and commercial buildings in terms of prefabrication has many advantages, because the construction cycle is shortened, and with the ecological method of construction, we reduce waste by using recycled concrete, which also reduces large CO2 emissions. It is a sustainable way of construction and is aimed at protecting the environment because prefabricated production is carried out under controlled conditions in the plant.

Park Novi Residence

THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE HOTEL AND BUSINESS COMPLEX HYATT REGENCY NOVI SAD AND TRINITY PARK IS ONE OF THE LARGEST INVESTMENTS IN NOVI SAD, WORTH 107 MILLION EUROS, AND CONTRIBUTING BOTH TO ECOLOGY AND TOURISM

OVERVIEW OF THE REAL ESTATE MARKET IN NOVI SAD

RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION

The residential market in Novi Sad continues to expand in 2023. The strong demand for apartments in new construction continued, encouraging investors to plan new projects even though attractive locations are becoming less available. Larger residential and office complexes are announced along Futoški Put and Bulevar Evrope, as well as in the immediate vicinity of Ribarsko Ostrvo. Also, the construction of the residential and office complex Vojvodjanka by investor Zoned doo Novi Sad, Park Novi Residence by investor Inobačka doo Novi Sad, Block D by investor Dijagon Invest doo Novi Sad, and Garden Residence by investor Emerald Hill doo is in the final phase.

Currently, there are almost 300 construction sites active on the territory of the city, including Veternik, Futog, and Petrovaradin. Prices reach a maximum of 3,500 to even 4,000 euros per sqm in Grbavica. Surrounding neighborhoods (Adamovićevo settlement, Sajam, and Liman) reach prices

of cca. 3,000 to 3,500 euros per sqm for luxury projects. Prices are slightly lower in Rotkvarija, Podbara, and Nova Detelinara, from 2,500 to 2,800 euros. In Telep, where the most popular urban villas are located, the price of new construction is cca. 2,500 euros per sqm. In Novo Naselje, known as an area with more affordable prices, the price per sqm for apartments in new construction is 2,000 euros. Once the periphery, now legitimate parts of Novi Sad, Adice and Veternik, in new construction, reach 1,600 to 2,000 euros per sqm. The Srem side of Novi Sad is also experiencing a renaissance of old buildings, where urban villas and smaller complexes are popular. The accelerated development of Mišeluk (which is currently being equipped with infrastructure), Karagača and Alibegovac is also expected. Prices in Petrovaradin go up to a maximum of 2,500 euros per sqm, and urban villas in Popovica, Kip, and the surroundings of Sremska Kamenica reach 2,500 and even 3,000 euros per sqm for luxury construction.

APARTMENTS WERE SOLD IN NOVI SAD IN 2022

COMMERCIAL SPACE

Positive developments and constant growth in the IT industry, one of the leading ones in Novi Sad, could indicate an increase in demand for facilities of this type. The office space market did not experience any significant changes during 2022, with positive trends visible in the coming period, taking into account projects in progress as well as projects in the planning phase. It is important to point out the arrival of the American company Epic Games in Novi Sad, which started the construction of an office building that will be the European center of the company. Another IT company, Vega IT, bought the Radnički Univerzitet office building, which was damaged in a fire, and the final works on the complete reconstruction of the building are underway.

INDUSTRIAL AND LOGISTICS FACILITIES

Over the past few years, there has been an increase in development activity in the industrial and logistics sectors, mainly as a result of the support of central and local authorities and their incentives for investors. Due to its excellent stra -

tegic location, proximity to Highway E-75, administrative center of AP Vojvodina, proximity to Belgrade, large number of international companies, developed industrial zone, and infrastructure equipment, Novi Sad is an attractive place for investors.

IQ

Vega

AROUND 135,000 M2 OF MODERN OFFICE SPACE IS AVAILABLE IN NOVI SAD

REAL ESTATE PRICES IN BELGRADE AND NOVI SAD WILL NOT CHANGE

According to Uroš Novković, CEO of the valuation company Data Investment, a slowdown in growth, stagnation, and a drop in prices are expected by the end of the year. Smaller towns with less attractive projects will first experience a slowdown in construction activity, while luxury projects and expensive apartments will continue to find buyers

By: PETRA VASILJEVIĆ UROŠ NOVKOVIĆ, CEO, Data Investment

PRIVATNA ARHIVA

One of the basic requirements for a good purchase and sale on the real estate market is an adequate, that is, realistic, appraisal of the real estate value. It is a service provided by licensed appraisers according to established methodologies that has a wide application in the economy and is of great importance for the stability of the entire financial market. We asked Uroš Novković, the founder and CEO of Data Investment, one of the leading appraisal companies in Serbia and the region, why a professional real estate valuation is important, what it includes, and what trends in the real estate market he predicts by the end of the year.

Although you are from Novi Sad, Data Investment covers the entire country with its services. You have been studying the real estate market and establishing trust in the financial market for the past 17 years. What has this journey looked like so far?

— Along with my father, who served as an expert witness in economics and finance at the Novi Sad court, I developed an interest in property valuation. I met many people in this industry while working with my

Photo:

father, Dragutin, and independently preparing real estate valuations, and I gained knowledge that helped me make the decision to go independent. In May 2006, Data Investment was founded, and that’s when the road of no return began. In 2015, I became a member of the RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) in the UK, and since then, we have been sharing knowledge and experience in the field of appraisals with the whole world. DATA now has more than 20 employees; our headquarters are in Novi Sad, and we have branches in Belgrade, Niš, Subotica, and Zlatibor. We gather experienced experts as well as young people eager to learn and grow.

Real estate valuation is one of the main services you provide. What does a real estate valuation involve, and how important is local market expertise for a successful appraisal?

— The valuation includes several crucial stages: identification and inspection of real estate, determination of the factual situation, analysis of legal documentation, ascertainment of any deviations and/or discrep -

— Most people only come across appraisals when using a home loan to purchase an apartment or house. As a result, the general public is not well informed about what we do. Valuation is an essential system of market information control by certified, expert professionals whose task is to adequately interpret data on real estate market dynamics. I am not referring only to housing loans and residential real estate appraisals, which will slowly become a matter of software data processing, but to all business loans granted with various types of commercial real estate as collateral. The appraisal of the market value of real estate ensures the stability of the banking (credit) system. Our most frequent clients are legal entities that use banking services—various forms of loans secured by mortgage liens—as well as individuals as buyers of residential real estate. We cooperate with practically all banks in Serbia, and we can boast that we are among the strongest “players” in the field of appraisals in Serbia and the region. A new service we have offered to banks in order to speed up and make the valuation process of residential real estate cheaper is AVM, or Automated Valuation Model, which relies on our database and the register of realized sales of the Republic Geodetic Authority.

Given the huge database at your disposal and more than 20,000 assessments you have carried out, how do you see the real estate market in Serbia?

ancies, and, of course, the methodology of defining the value. The basis of any valuation must be a quality market analysis. Based on this information, the methodology that the appraiser chooses leads to the market value of the real estate that best reflects what we basically call the real value. The value of real estate is determined by a number of factors: location, age of the property, area, number of floors, quality of finishing, etc. Commercial real estate requires additional analysis and processing of several factors that affect its value: functionality, exposure, equipment, the possibility of parking, and the like. Knowledge of the local market is of crucial importance, and that is why we transferred our business to other locations in Serbia in order to employ people “from home” who can recognize the subtleties of the city or area they live in.

Why is a professional real estate valuation important, and who are mostly your clients for this type of service?

— The real estate market in Serbia, especially in the residential sector, experienced its peak in 2022, similar to the situation before the great economic crisis at the end of the first decade of the 20th century. Real estate prices are at their peak, fueled not only by the strong demand for new apartments but also by the tendency of our citizens to invest their savings in real estate as the safest investment. In 2023, we are entering a period of stabilization. By the end of the year, we expect a slowdown in growth and, consequently, stagnation and a drop in prices. Our predictions are that smaller towns with less attractive projects will first experience a slowdown in construction activity. As absurd as it sounds, luxury projects and expensive apartments will still find buyers. We predict that real estate prices in Belgrade and Novi Sad will remain at their current levels, with a slight decline in activity in less developed locations. A positive trend that we notice, especially in Novi Sad but also in Belgrade, is the “American” type of construction of smaller, luxury residential areas with individual houses on the outskirts of the city. What we can recommend as a safe investment are good small apartments in the center of Belgrade and Novi Sad, but one should also think about buying plots in suburban areas that can experience expansion in a few decades.

THE REAL ESTATE MARKET IN SERBIA, ESPECIALLY IN THE RESIDENTIAL SECTOR, EXPERIENCED ITS PEAK IN 2022, THIS YEAR WE ARE ENTERING A PERIOD OF STABILIZATION

ESG AGENDA OF THE REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY

In addition to the exhibition of phenomenal projects from around the world and the irreplaceable live interaction with thousands of professionals, this year’s MIPIM was the focal point of the transformation of the real estate industry towards sustainability and decarbonization

By: NIKOLINA

More than 23,000 delegates and 2,400 exhibitors, representing 90 countries, gathered from March 14 to 17 in Cannes for MIPIM, the international real estate event that brings political leaders and the real estate community together to find solutions to the challenges facing the built environment. With the largest delegation since the pandemic, the industry embraced the need to overcome difficulties and deliver positive change for people, communities, and the planet.

Led by higher attendances from the France, UK,

Germany, and Italy delegations, the 32nd edition of MIPIM saw a 15% increase in visitors and exhibitors compared with 2022. European delegates at MIPIM 2023 were joined by representatives from Japan, Canada, the USA, Brazil, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, amongst others, making MIPIM a truly global event. Cities and countries showcased pioneering new opportunities to improve urban planning and advance greater sustainability and prosperity.

“In an uncertain global environment, MIPIM acts as a catalyst for innovation and a focal point for the transformation of real estate. More than ever, we experienced incredible energy from political leaders, investors, and the wider real estate community that are collaborating to create better, more sustainable buildings and places. The decarbonization of cities was foremost on the agenda this year. We’re excited to continue these endeavors at MIPIM New York in November,” Nicolas Kozubek, MIPIM Director, said.

Senior political, economic, and environmental leaders, including Jeremy Rifkin, an American economic and social theorist, Christophe Béchu, Minister for Ecological and Territorial Cohesion of France, Olivier Klein, Minister Delegate for Urban Affairs and Housing of France, Cristina Gamboa, World Green Building Council, and Lord Dominic Johnson CBE, UK Investment Minister, spoke to the world’s real estate community, bringing unique insights about global challenges and their plans for tackling them.

Up to 76 of the world’s top 100 investment managers, advising on €4 trillion of assets, took part in a dynamic new format of MIPIM exhibitions, discussions, and panel talks, including Isabelle Scemama, global head at investment manager AXA IM Alts, as well

Photo: MIPIM

VUKIĆEVIĆ

MIPIM 2023

as Commerz Real’s chief executive, Henning Koch. The new Road to Zero area combined 400 square meters of exhibition, networking, and conference space with a focus on groundbreaking methods to decarbonize the real estate industry. As part of this ongoing decarbonization journey, MIPIM has signed up to the “Road to Zero Alliance” of high-profile businesses, including PWC and real estate investment trust Icade, to take faster, more effective action.

MIPIM 2023 also saw the launch of the popular CoLiv Summit, held in response to the growth of alternative ways of living. The new Infrastructure Stage highlighted the urgent need to consider every aspect of the urban realm in a holistic way, addressing the impact of water, energy, data centers, and transport on property development.

At MIPIM 2023, 12 winners of the MIPIM Awards, a globally renowned real estate competition for completed or yet-to-be-built projects around the world, were also revealed. In addition to the usual criteria, this year the jury focused on how projects seek to enhance the built environment’s prospects in line with ESG goals. The six key criteria were sustainability, integration of the project in its environment and community, quality of the user experience, economic contribution, originality of the concept, and architectural qualities.

MIPIM returns to the Palais des Festivals in Cannes on March 12–15, 2024.

MORE THAN EVER, WE EXPERIENCED INCREDIBLE ENERGY FROM POLITICAL LEADERS, INVESTORS, AND THE WIDER REAL ESTATE COMMUNITY THAT ARE COLLABORATING TO CREATE BETTER, MORE SUSTAINABLE BUILDINGS AND PLACES

HIGH RANKING OF SERBIA ON THE EUROPEAN INVESTMENT MAP

The conference SERBIA: A PLACE FOR YOUR GROWTH, focused on the investment potential of Serbia in the real estate industry, was held for the first time at MIPIM, the world’s leading real estate fair. The conference was organized by our company, West Media World, and supported by the Serbian Chamber of Commerce and Industry

By: NIKOLINA VUKIĆEVIĆ

MIPIM, the leading international event that connects the global real estate community and the world’s major investors, gathered more than 23,000 delegates from 90 countries from March 14 to 17 in Cannes. The investment potential of Serbia and opportunities for fresh investments in real estate projects were presented at the investment conference SERBIA: A PLACE FOR YOUR GROWTH, which took place at the Festival Palace on the second day of the fair.

The conference was officially opened by Emmanuel de Tissot, commercial director of MIPIM, who welcomed the Serbian delegation and pointed out that Serbia, with all the efforts

it has invested so far in the development of its economy and market, occupies a prominent place on the investment map of Europe and deserves serious attention from world investors.

At the conference, the Serbian delegation spoke about the investment and business climate in Serbia, foreign investments so far, significant infrastructure and development projects, trends in the real estate market, construction, and real estate industry, and opportunities for new investments in the development of residential, business, industrial, logistics, and tourism projects. The speakers were: Danilo Cicmil, special investment advisor to the President of the Republic of Serbia; Marko

Photo: REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE

The conference speakers: Danilo Cicmil, Marko Stojčić, and Vladimir Popović

Stojčić, city architect of the City of Belgrade; and Vladimir Popović, managing partner at Colliers Serbia. The conference was moderated by Gordana Knežević Monašević, editor-in-chief of Real Estate magazine.

The theme of the conference and the speakers attracted a lot of attention from MIPIM participants and gathered guests from various countries, including the USA, Saudi Arabia, Germany, Austria, France, Greece, Turkey, Spain, Poland, Canada, and Switzerland, but also from the region, including Slovenia and Croatia.

During the hour and a half of the conference, the guests had the opportunity to hear that, for the second year in a row, Serbia is the regional record holder in attracting foreign direct investments, which have exceeded 35 billion euros since 2010. Danilo Cicmil pointed out that the Serbian government has made enormous efforts in recent years to ensure a safe business climate for investments and that more than 250 new investments, which have been successfully implemented, are the best indicator that the investment environment in Serbia is favorable and safe. Cicmil added that Serbia is on a clear path to becoming a member of the European Union while continuing to lead the region towards cooperation and unity.

Marko Stojčić presented the most significant infrastructure projects in Belgrade—the construction of the metro system and new bridges on the Sava and Danube—which open significant opportunities for new real estate investments in Belgrade. The city architect said that the city’s plan is for Belgrade to once

again become the university center of this part of Europe in the near future, and that the plan is to build more student campuses and accompanying hubs for the intellectual industry. The most interest in new investment opportunities in Belgrade was caused by the announcement of the construction of a new fair complex with accompanying facilities next to the National Stadium in Surčin, which should be the venue for organizing Expo 27 if Belgrade officially wins its candidacy in June.

Vladimir Popović presented the trends in the Serbian real estate market and pointed out its constant growth over the last years, especially in the residential and office sectors. Popović emphasized that there are good opportunities for new investments in all sectors of real estate, and especially in the sector of industrial and logistics facilities, since Serbia has a strategically important location in Europe and accessibility to key markets in the region and beyond.

It was said that investors coming to Serbia can rely on local companies as reliable partners with capacities for joint ventures, as well as on suppliers from the manufacturing industry, construction and design companies, freight forwarding and logistics companies, and the growing IT sector. It was also highlighted that law amendments will facilitate the procedure for hiring foreign workers and speed up the obtaining of building permits and accompanying documentation.

The conference was organized by West Media World, the official media partner of MIPIM, and supported by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia.

“The investment conference at MIPIM meant a lot to us because we met a number of investors who are interested in some specific investments that would make them come to Belgrade and Serbia, and we continued our discussions with them. MIPIM was also an opportunity to see what other cities and countries are doing to attract investors. We are sure now that Belgrade is one of the most attractive locations for investments in residential and commercial buildings, which will surely contribute to the participation of this economic branch in the BPD in the coming period. We are confirmed that we are on the right track when compared to other European capitals and that investment in infrastructure is something that we must continue in order to make Belgrade an even better city to live in and to remain an important point on the European and world investment map,“ says Marko Stojčić, Belgarde city architect.

Emmanuel de Tissot, commercial director of MIPIM

MARKO STOJČIĆ: THE GREAT INTEREST OF FOREIGN INVESTORS

THE INTEREST OF THE BIG PLAYERS IN THE UNITED ADRIA MARKET

“We have formed a team of top people in the entire Adriatic region, including Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Serbia, Albania, and Greece, which is working on the development of a joint approach to large global clients and new markets,” says Vedrana Likan, Managing Partner at Colliers Croatia, in an interview for our magazine

By: GORDANA KNEŽEVIĆ MONAŠEVIĆ

Photo: SANJIN KAŠTELAN

VEDRANA LIKAN, Managing Partner,

The idea of connecting markets in the region is gaining more and more importance and momentum in all economic activities, including the real estate industry, which is perhaps the fastest developing and adapting. Firmly positioned in all the countries of the Adriatic region, the global company Colliers has widely recognized the potential and advantages of the unified regional real estate market and is ready

Colliers Croatia

for new challenges that will ensure the growth of their clients and much-needed new investments. We talk about the potential integration of Colliers Adriatic but also about the success of Colliers in the markets of Croatia, Slovenia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina with Vedran Likan, Managing Partner at Colliers Croatia and the founder of the Croatian Green Building Council.

Colliers has established a strong presence throughout the region over the past 20 years. How closely do the offices collaborate with one another, and are there any plans for Colliers to become even more integrated at the level of the Adriatic region?

— Both globally and regionally, at Colliers, there is a strong sense of community and collaboration that we are very proud of. Every day we cooperate with colleagues from the region, share knowledge and experience, and enter into partnerships on individual projects, all with the aim of providing the best possible service to our clients. We will certainly deepen this connection over time through further cooperation and potential integration. We have formed a team of top people in the entire Adriatic region, including Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Serbia, Albania, and Greece, working to develop a joint approach to large global clients and new markets. Ten years ago, we entered the markets of China and the UAE in this way, and the results of that work are visible today through the strong presence of investors from those countries in our region. Now we have a new set of target markets on the radar, as well as the strengthening and deepening of relations with some of the biggest players on the unified Adriatic market.

What do you see as the advantages of the unified Adriatic market, and what trends are currently prevalent?

— The dynamics of the world of commercial real estate are perfectly reflected in the market in the Adriatic region. It is located in an excellent geographical position, which is why it is interesting for investors and numerous companies. We offer investors a whole range of opportunities in different investment circumstances, and in doing so, we unite countries from long-standing EU members through relatively new ones to those that are candidates for EU membership, thus opening new markets for the expansion of our clients. In the entire Adriatic region, there is extremely high demand and insufficient supply in all market segments. All this leads to a reduced volume of commercial real estate transactions, but not to a decrease in investor interest; quite the opposite.

In our region, in the office segment, the highest concentration of supply and demand is in the capital cities. The situation in each of our big cities is different but also very similar, with a noticeable increase in the influence of world

trends that raise the standards of the regional market. As for the commercial and industrial segments, we are witnessing expansions to secondary locations, whereby the retail sector adapts its business model to the influence of internet commerce. Like office space, stores are also going through a certain transition, and expansion plans in existing and new markets are strongly emphasized. The HTL sector in the region is becoming interesting for investors, especially because the offer of accommodation in higher categories is somewhat weaker. Big international brands have already started to enter this market, so, along with the already-known Croatia and Montenegro, we can no longer say that Albania is an undiscovered market for global investors and hotel brands. In recent months, the hot topic has been the residential real estate market. Thanks to inflation and a lack of supply, square footage prices have risen significantly. The construction of new residential properties is still below the level it was at before the last economic crisis, while demand is high. It is interesting that in Bosnia and Herzegovina, along with Serbia and Croatia, this sector is the most active.

If we look at the cross-section of the current situation in the Adriatic region, there is a visible lack of investment and development products in all segments, especially when it comes to more modern A-class square meters. Also, in perspective, the ESG agenda will be one of the most important directions for the development of the real estate market in the region.

For years, Colliers Croatia has consistently been named the top consulting firm in Croatia and the region. What distinguishes you from others?

— The fact that for the last 10 years we have been receiving the most important world and European awards for the best consultant in Croatia and the region is a great confirmation of our work. We recently received the “Best Place to Work in Croatia” award. The fact that we are part of a global company with incredible resources—more than 18,000 experts are employed in 65 countries around the world—plays a big role in all of this, and that is an advantage that we often highlight and use. We have a global reach, but what really sets us apart is our in-depth knowledge of

IN RECENT MONTHS, THE HOT TOPIC HAS BEEN THE RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE MARKET. THANKS TO INFLATION AND A LACK OF SUPPLY, SQUARE FOOTAGE PRICES HAVE RISEN SIGNIFICANTLY

the local market. We have been present in Croatia, Slovenia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina for almost 20 years, but more importantly, we have continuity, constant business growth, and thus a great role in the development of the entire market. However, what makes a significant difference for our clients is the company culture at Colliers, which means that the support of a colleague from any office in the world is available by call or text message. So, there is nothing that is unknown or impossible for us to do for a client. The work we do is not different from what others do; we just do it differently. The difference is precisely that human factor, and clients recognize it.

On January 1st, Croatia adopted the euro and joined the Schengen area. How much did these changes affect new trends in the real estate market?

— The adoption of the euro as an official currency enabled a greater presence of foreign buyers, who now find it easier to buy properties here. On the other hand, the euro has eliminated currency risk in financing, which

advantages of operating in all three markets together?

— We have been covering Slovenia and Bosnia and Herzegovina from the Zagreb office since 2007. Last year we opened an office in Ljubljana because the market has grown, matured, and enabled the strong development of local companies. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, we also have continuity of presence with colleagues who have been with us since the very beginning. Although we are talking about neighboring countries, each market is unique, and what works in one market does not necessarily mean that it will be well received in another. The very type of clients, their origin, and their approach to development and project management are different, so it is important to provide them with local support. Covering three different markets is dynamic, challenging, and above all, interesting. Our big advantage is that clients often operate in the same markets as us, so we can provide them with local experts for different projects. Let’s take, for example, clients who want to expand business from Croatia to Bosnia and Herzegovina. In this case, clients who have already done business with us know exactly what to expect, and for them, it is a saving of time and resources. One phone call is enough, and we start the action.

Your “success story” is further evidence of the fact that women are taking over the real estate sector. What made real estate win you over so much that you gave up a successful career in communication management and became synonymous with the world of real estate and investments in business circles in Croatia and beyond?

has an additional favorable effect on the price and security of borrowing. In the new circumstances, we expect that the market will open up further for foreign investors who have been showing interest for a long time, especially in greenfield investments and brownfield urban regeneration. At the moment, investors are somewhat more cautious due to uncertain expectations regarding recession and inflation, but interest is still there because Schengen has brought us a safer investment environment. Our half-yearly Market Overview shows that the warehouse and logistics sector is still the most attractive in Croatia, where several large industrial-logistics complexes are currently being built, mostly in the vicinity of large cities: Zagreb, Split, and Rijeka. However, even with projects currently under development, there will not be enough square footage to meet the growing demand in the commercial real estate market.

Colliers Croatia also covers the markets of Slovenia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. What experiences do you have with these two markets, and what are the

— I’ve always been the type of person who likes to work on multiple projects at once. I like challenges and new situations to test my own limits. After almost 10 years in communication management, the move to Colliers, in a completely new area, was precisely on the wave of that desire to broaden horizons. However, my job is still related to communications, but also sales, politics, economics, etc. Fortunately, throughout my career, from the very beginning and even after 17 years at Colliers, I have had the privilege of doing work that I love with people who inspire me in sectors that are exciting and dynamic. When I look back today, I am proud of everything I have achieved with my teams. Of course, the fact that we represent the Colliers brand gives us additional strength, which, along with local knowledge, expertise, long-term continuity, and presence on the market, is the reason we hold a leading position in the region.

How much has the fact that you were Colliers’ “child” from the very beginning of the office in Croatia influenced your professional growth and achievement in the real estate industry?

IF WE LOOK AT THE CURRENT SITUATION IN THE ADRIATIC REGION, THERE IS A VISIBLE LACK OF INVESTMENT AND DEVELOPMENT PRODUCTS IN ALL SEGMENTS, ESPECIALLY WHEN IT COMES TO MODERN A-CLASS SQUARE METERS

— It’s wonderful when I think back to my first job interviews at Colliers. The first interviews were already online: first with a colleague from Canada, then in the office in Sofia, and the final interview in the office in Belgrade. By working at Colliers, I got the opportunity to learn from top experts, which really enriched me, both personally and professionally. I can say that Colliers and I have grown, developed, and learned together, and the result is a company that clients can rely on. Company culture, our connection, friendship, optimism, and positive approach to work are the result of the dedicated work of current and former members of our team, and we are extremely proud of that. We are happy to hear how many former employees, who mostly become our clients, praise us and talk with joy about the time they spent with us, which is an additional confirmation that we have built a team where people feel good and safe.

The “Woman of the Year” award for 2012 is one of the many recognitions you have received, among other things, for your strong social engagement, especially in the field of women’s empowerment. How do you view this still-current issue?

— I am often asked how it is that today there are so many women in leadership positions and that we talk about

rights and equality so much more than five or ten years ago. My answer is that women today are simply more visible. And I am happy that I contributed to it myself and that my work and my contribution were recognized by the public. I look forward to each nomination, and even more so to an award, as if it were the first, and each of them gives me the wind at my back to keep going because I see that what I am doing has an effect. When I received the “Woman of the Year” award 11 years ago, it further encouraged me to become even more involved. In the meantime, I became a mentor in numerous domestic and foreign programs dedicated to encouraging entrepreneurship among women and young people. Thanks to my involvement in the empowerment of women, in June 2022 in Brussels, I received the “Female Business Leader” award from the Emerging Europe Awards. To be chosen among wonderful women from 23 European countries who contribute every day to the creation of an even better environment is a huge honor and something I could not even dream of, and it gave me another confirmation that what I do is important for all women, but also for my daughter and the daughters of your readers. On the trail of that mission, one of my projects, which is dear to my heart, was born: “21 Ways to Success,”, from which the LeaderSHE conference was born.

Colliers Croatia has recently been awarded the “Best Place to Work in Croatia”

A GROWING NEED FOR OFFICES IN THE OLD PART OF BELGRADE

According to Nebojša Ivić, team leader at Colliers Serbia’s lease section, rental prices for office space in Belgrade won’t increase in the near future, but service costs, which will be calculated based on consumption, are predicted to rise

By: JOVANA NIKOLIĆ

Photo: SAŠA NIKOLIĆ

Belgrade lacks at least twice as many square meters of office space as it currently has, and the vacancy rate is extremely low. These are the realities that companies looking for suitable workspace for their employees—and, of course, rental agents, who provide the most assistance—find the most difficult to accept. And the needs are increasing given the large influx of foreign companies as well as the increasingly rapid development of the IT sector. We asked Nebojša Ivić, team leader at Colliers Serbia’s lease section, what the current situation is in the office space market in Belgrade and how much of a challenge it is to find space for a client when the supply is limited.

Even though Belgrade’s office space market expanded by about 120,000 square meters last year, the high demand did not significantly decline. What is the cause of this imbalance, which has long existed in Belgrade?

— Numerous foreign companies are setting up offices in Belgrade, looking also for production and logistics space. Geopolitically, Belgrade is very favorable for development. The majority of the Russian companies that have recently arrived in Belgrade

NEBOJŠA IVIĆ, lease section team leader, Colliers Serbia

are in the IT industry. Both domestic and international IT companies are expanding significantly. Their development is rapid and requires constant employment, so the need for office premises is increasing. These are companies that are looking for office space exclusively in business centers. The most frequent inquiries are from companies with up to 10 employees. Individuals have recognized this trend and used it to adapt living spaces for those who want office space.

Given the insufficient supply and high demand and the increasing influx of foreign companies, how much of a challenge is it in practice to find a suitable work space for the client?

— Domestic clients are aware of the situation and plan their relocation up to a year in advance. With foreign clients, it’s a little more difficult because they need space much faster, and that’s where the challenge arises. It is interesting that, in the last year, the demand for office premises in the old part of the city has been increasing. Also, more and more companies are adapting to the needs of employees. For example, if a company employs more workers who live in the center, they will look for space there. One of the examples of modern office space for such “urban employers” is the Artklasa office building, which is located in Dorćol, near Silosi, within the Belgrade Port complex. Created by the renovation of the administration building of the former Žitomlin factory, Artklasa, on 14,850 square meters, offers the most modern office space with a sports center, cultural facilities, a kindergarten, 250 parking spaces... When creating this project, everything was thought of. The concept of open space, high ceilings, and a phenomenal view of the river create an unusual ambience.

How much has the high demand, as well as the increasing number of ultra-modern office buildings in exclusive locations, affected rental prices?

— Office space rental prices did not experience the same increase that happened with the rental prices of residential properties. On the contrary, they remained at the same level. What will change are the service costs. The price of energy has not really risen yet, and that is expected. Office space rental prices range from 12 to 16 euros per square meter, and service costs are from 3 to 4.5 euros per square meter and usually do not include the biggest consumers: electricity, cooling, and heating. A big problem is the lack of parking spaces, especially in the city center.

Numerous projects for the construction of new office buildings and the reconstruction of old office buildings promise hundreds of thousands of square meters of new office space in Belgrade in the coming years.

Is the interest so great that the largest percentage of these offices have already been rented out?

— Reconstruction of old office buildings is something that tenants are very interested in. Currently, two large old office buildings are being reconstructed. One is the BIGZ building near the Fair, and the other is the already mentioned Artklasa in the Belgrade Port. What I notice as a positive trend is that new buildings are appearing in some new locations in the old part of the city, such as the construction of the East Side office complex in Zvezdara, which somehow contributes to the decentralization of New Belgrade as a city business zone. The AFI City Zmaj business center is being built in New Belgrade, while the area behind Airport City, together with the Alco Business Center, is being turned into a serious business center. However, all this only partially facilitates the search for office space because the offices in the buildings under construction are mostly rented out in advance, which indicates a huge demand.

How do you anticipate further trends in the office space market in Belgrade?

— Everything indicates that office space rental prices will not increase in the coming period, but the problem will be in the service costs. If there is a change in energy prices, I am sure that the way of calculating service costs will also change: the prices will no longer be fixed per square meter but will be calculated per consumption. In some office buildings, this calculation method is already applied.

Considering the heavy traffic in Belgrade and the large crowds that take a lot of time for employees to commute, the construction of office buildings in other parts of the city, aside from New Belgrade, would significantly ease this situation. I have already mentioned the East Side project, which, with its 3,150 square meters in the heart of Zvezdara, will certainly ease this situation for the people who live there and who will soon be able to work in the business zone close to home.

Startup companies are on the rise. They most often opt for a coworking office space, and that is one of the reasons that all capacities of that type are mostly filled. For the development of coworking, it is necessary to expand the capacities in all parts of the city, in the form of smaller centers, in order to make them more accessible to tenants.

OFFICE SPACE RENTAL PRICES RANGE FROM 12 TO 16 EUROS PER SQUARE METER, AND SERVICE COSTS ARE FROM 3 TO 4.5 EUROS PER SQUARE METER

ARCHITECTURE MUST RETURN TO INSTITUTIONS

"Since it was founded one year ago as as the first business association of architectural firms with the aim of improving architecture in Serbia, the Association of Serbian Architectural Practices has organized numerous events, participated in the drafting of several important documents, and doubled its membership," says

Igor Marsenić, executive manager of ASAP

By: PETRA VASILJEVIĆ

Photo: DRAGANA UDOVIČIĆ

Architectural entrepreneurship is a young activity in Serbia, since more than 70 percent of active bureaus and studios were founded after 2005, but just like all other entrepreneurs, architects of the new generation are above all enterprising. This was best demonstrated by the Association of Serbian Architectural Practices (ASAP), which, in just one year after its establishment, grew into a significant professional association with an increasingly loud and noticeable impact on the change of the business climate and culture, but also on opening a dialogue on numerous challenges the large architectural ecosystem in Serbia is fac-

ing. We asked the executive manager of ASAP, Igor Marsenić, what activities marked the first year of the Association’s work and what the future goals are.

How would you summarize the results of this first year since your establishment?

— I had the honor to present a report on activities during the first regular assembly of our association, and the common impression was that the results were really impressive. We organized more than 20 events of different formats, participated in the organization of the 45th Salon of Architecture, then participated in public debates regarding

IGOR MARSENIĆ, executive manager, ASAP

the amendments to the Law on Copyright and the Law on Planning and Construction, as well as in the drafting of the National Architectural Strategy. We provided our members with business support from Raiffeisen Bank, professional development services from Gi Group, as well as legal assistance from OAD Stojković regarding legal contracts. Our profiles on social networks are becoming a reference point for information regarding the development of architectural entrepreneurship in Serbia, and we are especially proud of our YouTube channel, the growth of subscribers, and the number of views of the content from our video library. Hence, we believe that it is understandable that the number of our members has increased from 13 to 47 in a year and that we are currently present in eight cities in Serbia.

ASAP was the co-organizer of the Architecture Salon this year. Are you satisfied with how the event went and with the cooperation with the Museum of Applied Art?

What were your most important comments in the creation of the National Architectural Strategy for the period 2023–2025?

— In our remarks and comments, we mostly insisted on the formation of the Chamber of Architects, changes to the competition and post-competition policies, and, consequently, the necessary changes to the Law on Public Procurement, but also the obligation that all media with a national frequency have a program that would influence the understanding of the importance of architectural work. Our representatives will represent our interests and the interests of the profession through numerous working groups that will be formed by the Ministry of Construction, Transport, and Infrastructure and that will deal with the implementation of the strategy. Special praise and thanks go to Mrs. Božana Lukić and Mr. Nebojša Antešević, who led the entire process on behalf of the Ministry of GSI.

What is your general impression of the amendments to the Law on Planning and Construction?

— There are many important and necessary novelties in the draft amendments to the Law on Planning and Construction. We support everything related to the “green agenda”, but we believe that a trend that has been going on for almost two decades has continued, which is that in the process of creating the draft law, consultations were not carried out with various architectural associations operating in our country. We hope that the drafting of new amendments or a new law will be an opportunity to change this policy.

— First of all, on behalf of ASAP, I would like to thank the Museum of Applied Art and its director, Biljana Jotić, for inviting us to participate in the organization of the salon. The museum showed, for our times, an unusual openness to non-institutional actors and civil associations and thus set a real example of how modern cultural institutions should work, which is to be a platform for dialogue within a community or profession. We accepted the invitation because we believe that architecture must return to institutions because only they have the capacity to simultaneously exhibit, document, archive, and evaluate the work of both individual authors and the entire era. These views of ASAP were presented by our representatives in the Salon Council. All the novelties of this year’s salon stemmed from this approach of the entire Council: the introduction of the final report and handover of duties between the two Councils in order to establish continuity of action; mandatory public lectures by members of the jury, which this year was international and chaired by Werner Sobek; a panel discussion with live streaming; the introduction of the audience award; and, for the first time, the awards ceremony as a special event. Of course, one is always a bit nervous in these situations, but the audience, which returned in large numbers to the Salon of Architecture and visited the lectures and panels, as well as the number of views on the YouTube platform of our association, convinced us that with MAA we made important and good decisions for the further development of the most significant national exhibition of architectural creativity.

What are the key objectives you plan to strive for in the upcoming year?

— Considering the continuous increase in our membership, one of our basic tasks will be to raise the organizational and management capacities of the association so that we can immediately include a large number of interested people in its activities. We will do this primarily through working groups but also through other forms of action, especially since we will elect a new Board of Directors and working bodies in the next assembly, and this transition will show how much we have matured as a business community. Of course, many ASAP meetups and Partner Day await us until the end of the calendar year. I invite your readers to follow our profiles on social networks and event announcements because we believe that they are becoming more and more relevant for understanding the development of architectural entrepreneurship in our country. Join us;, we can only get better together!

OUR PROFILES ON SOCIAL MEDIA HAVE BECOME A REFERENCE POINT FOR INFORMATION REGARDING THE DEVELOPMENT OF ARCHITECTURAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN SERBIA

ADVANCED SECURITY SYSTEMS ENSURE PEACEFUL SLEEP

Bata Vulović, owner of Lunatronik and a master of electrical engineering, explains how to choose the best protection system for any type of facility, why smart, integrated systems are always the most favorable option, and how AI is driving new trends in this field

By: PETRA VASILJEVIĆ

Given the large assortment of cameras, alarms, and various security systems on the market, you can easily get confused and make mistakes if you don’t have a reliable expert to help you choose the best security system for your facility— business premises, house, or apartment. We spoke with Bata Vulović, the owner of the company Lunatronik and one of our most experienced experts in this field, about why standard cameras don’t offer real protection, what an integrated security system involves and its benefits, and whether mechanical protection is also required in addition to electronic protection.

You have thirty years of experience with integrated security systems. How far have these systems advanced since then, and what level of security do these modern solutions provide us today?

— Lunatronik was founded in 1990. In the beginning, we only did the installation of burglar alarm systems, which most people had not even heard of at the time. It was a time of high inflation and low wages when burglars became very active, so people desperately needed to protect themselves. Since there was little competition at the time and we consistently delivered high-quality work with professionalism, our company expanded quickly. Soon, video surveillance systems ap-

Photo: LUNATRONIK

peared, available to a wider range of users, so I asked an American company representative at a large Birmingham trade show for suggestions on good, affordable cameras. The man responded, laughing, that there is no such thing as good and cheap because it is not natural. And if we consider the state of technology at the time, that was indeed the case. The situation has drastically changed in the meantime. There are many companies today that produce a wide range of cameras and security systems at very low prices, but they do not adhere to the technical requirements in our country and cannot therefore ensure long-term and reliable operation. This is why we continue to represent manufacturers whose high-quality, certified products, both for our clients and for us, ensure peaceful sleep and ease of use. We also do this because of our responsibility to our partners, installers, and end users. The better in quality and smarter the system is, the simpler it is for the end user to use it, and, at the same time, it represents the best recommendation for all other users.

Our security culture is still not at an enviable level. Many people are unaware that security cameras alone are insufficient and that only a high-quality alarm system, which is used regularly, can deter burglars and prevent them from causing more damage because it makes noise and alerts the authorities and emergency services. The current level of technology enables automatic visual verification of alarms, and this is where the role of cameras is most important. The latest trend is an artificial intelligence (AI) device that turns existing reactive cameras and video surveillance systems into proactive solutions using smart technology that only looks for selected objects. The main advantage of video analytics is the effective filtering of false alarms and focusing on real risks, which optimizes the work of security services and reduces fatigue from false alarms. The use of AI technology is rapidly developing and is a powerful tool in advanced security systems.

When we say integrated security system, it usually means alarm, video surveillance, and appliance control. Are there even more complex integrated systems, and who are they for?

— One of the main advantages of quality security systems lies precisely in the integration of several different and necessary systems and their management through a unique application, such as Lares 4.0. Only in this way will the user be able to easily, which is the key thing, achieve reliable control over his alarm system, access control system, fire and flood detection, electricity consumption, video surveillance system with automatic visual verification of the cause of the alarm, control of blinds with insight into the degree of openness, lighting dimming, control of heating and cooling, or any other electrical device, as well as smart IP video intercoms and voice assistants. Based on our many years of experience, we can say that these types of systems are used in all types of buildings, from one-room apartments in large

STANDARD CAMERAS DO NOT PROVIDE REAL PROTECTION. ONLY A QUALITY ALARM SYSTEM, USED REGULARLY, CAN DETER BURGLARS AND PREVENT THEM FROM DOING MORE DAMAGE

buildings with 100 apartments, where each apartment has heating and air conditioning control, to duplex apartments with 20 electric blinds, and even houses and villas with more than 130 lighting lines and 30 thermostats and heating lines...

Is it enough to use only electronic security systems or is it necessary to provide mechanical protection as well?

— The best effects are obtained by combining several different systems. In the case of companies or public institutions, these are access control and video surveillance systems with mechanical, pedestrian, and vehicle barriers. Everything starts at the facility entrance, where the flow of people and vehicles should be taken care of or access restricted to authorized persons. If there is a large flow of people, say about 60 people per minute, a suitable solution would be a sensor barrier, i.e., a speed gate. For a slightly lower flow rate, about 40 people per minute, for example, when entering a platform or a factory, an electromechanical turnstile is usually chosen. For small flows but the highest level of security, high electromechanic barriers (at the full height of people) are used, and for even less, so-called VIP barriers or double doors (security cabin).

The system must certainly be adapted to the available space at the very entrance to the building or another premise. The reception area of the building represents the first impression of every visitor, so the aesthetics are also important. The entrance should enhance the company’s reputation overall while also allowing visitors and employees to

Bata Vulović, owner and director, Lunatronik

enter the building rationally. Visitors must wait somewhere to be authorized and receive the proper card or authorization that will allow them to pass through the entrance barrier. Of course, you should always think about the passage for people with special needs as well as the connection of the system with the fire control center for automatic unlocking in case of the need for evacuation.

You have been cooperating with the Italian company Ksenia Security for years. What are the advantages of the Ksenia system, and what is its latest innovation?

— I realized a long time ago that selling already-existing solutions is not enough. Offering only what we typically sell is insufficient; we should also propose the best solution for a given project. Since “integration” is today’s golden rule, this requires a broad knowledge of the benefits of each product and innovation. In order to achieve success, it is necessary to dare to go beyond known limitations. It is the best way to address the future installer market, which is constantly evolving to meet new needs and the strictest requirements of demanding consumers. Ksenia Security and Lunatronik offer a top alarm system, according to the strictest safety standards, SPRS and EN 50131 Grade 3, with simple operation via touch panel and/or

Lares 4.0 application and efficient integration with all useful functions of a smart home system and IP video intercom.

The security systems in your portfolio have found an interesting application that best illustrates their effectiveness. How did the two storks, Sara and Novko, become the heroes of your unique online reality show?

— The stork project is an interesting example of useful and beautiful video surveillance for the widest audience: our camera with built-in 4G Internet and solar and battery power was used to monitor the entire life cycle of a pair of storks in Šumadija, from their arrival in March until their departure to Africa at the end of summer. You can view selected photos shown at the multimedia exhibition at: https://klt.rs/ multimedijalna-izlozba-art-in-security-oci-u-oci-sa-rodama/ An even more practical application of AI technology in video surveillance can be seen with professional Time-Lapse cameras that, completely independently, provide outstanding 6K resolution footage with a viewing angle of up to 220 degrees, analyze a large part of the construction site, and make a graphical interpretation of the number and efficiency of construction machines, trucks, and workers, taking into account whether the mandatory safety equipment is used. It represents an unprecedented advance in the automatic and efficient control of a complex space such as a construction site with superior Time-Lapse footage for visual enjoyment and monitoring of construction progress.

AI technology applied to Time-Lapse cameras

AI technology applied to Time-Lapse cameras

PEDESTRIAN

SUPERIOR

Speed gate sensor

• Electromechanic turnstiles

• The safest vertical barriers

• VIP passages and gates for the disabled

• Access control systems

SPEED GATE SENSOR BARRIER

An aesthetic solution for access control with a stylish design. The combination of glass wings and a steel body made of chrome with different designs on the top cover adapts to all interiors.

ELECTROMECHANIC TURNSTILES

TRIPOD 304 stainless steel body, easy to use, two-way control, strong ergonomic design, 100% continuous production, EUR1 certified quality, continuous technical support, proven quality, and reliable operation.

FULL HEIGHT PEDESTRIAN TURNSTILES

They provide uncompromising security at the highest level with ease of use without the presence of a security service.

REFERENCES

Lidl Directorate, Nikola Tesla Airport, Zepter, Belgrade Office Park, Atlantic Stark, Strabag, Savograd, Military Academy, the Avala Tower, Hotel Izvor...

THE SEVEN PEARLS OF THE ARABIAN DESERT

For most people, the first associations at the mention of the United Arab Emirates are mostly the same: wealth, luxury, tourism, hedonism, oil, and numerous architectural wonders that defy the laws of physics. However, not all emirates feature glamour. In some of them, you can still experience the authentic life of the ordinary Arab world and feel all the beauty of the desert that opens onto the coast of the Persian Gulf

Text and photo: IVAN ANDREJIĆ

By now, everyone is familiar with Dubai, a futuristic city in the middle of the Arabian Desert that has been attracting tourists for more than two decades with unusual attractions, such as the tallest building in the world, but also beautiful beaches and the most exclusive hotels and shopping malls. However, the United Arab Emirates is much more than that; it includes seven

emirates united in a federation that has become one of the most developed countries in the world, and, apart from oil, for which they are known, they are increasingly investing in new technologies, transport, and tourism. The UAE Federation was created in 1971, and in addition to Dubai, it also includes Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, and Fujairah, as well as the seventh emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, which joined in 1972.

Once a group of small desert settlements scattered along the Persian Gulf where nomads engaged in animal husbandry and the extraction of pearls from the sea, the UAE is today a strategically important country as one of the largest oil exporters in the world. But, as its rulers became aware over time that oil would not be there forever, in recent years they have been busy developing other branches of the economy, of which tourism is experiencing the greatest expansion. Although each of the emirates has its own story, they all share a desert or subtropical climate, which is why you should avoid them in the summer, when a temperature of 40 degrees is unbearable even for the locals. Therefore, winter, that is, the period from November to April, is a much better option for a visit, with an average temperature of 25 degrees, ideal for a vacation.

DUBAI

It all started at the end of the 90s, when the famous hotel in the shape of a sail, Burj el Arab, was built in Dubai, synonymous with luxury and the maximum hotel categorization with the previously nonexistent seven stars. After that, almost all the world’s hotel chains started to invest here, opening top facilities whose capacities were immediately occupied by a number of tourists, drawn by the grandiose attractions that have become a trademark of this part of the world. One of them is certainly the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa, a paradigm of spectacular architecture that defies the laws of nature, as well as the newly opened Museum of the Future, a

seven-story building without pillars in the shape of an egg, which is called a new wonder of the world. Although the futuristic buildings, which aim to push the boundaries of the achievements of the modern age, are an experience that cannot be avoided, in Dubai, you should also visit beautiful parks, such as the marvelous Botanical Garden, which has more than 150 million flowers, but also the old part of the city, where you can feel the authentic culture of the Orient.

ABU DHABI

The capital of the United Arab Emirates has the largest surface area and the largest oil export, and in recent years it has become a bigger rival to Dubai when it comes to tourism. It is home to the federal government, made of the rulers of each of the emirates, and is considered the safest city in the entire federation since as much as 80 percent of its area is secured by the police. In addition to luxury hotels and grandiose buildings, for which it competes with neighboring Dubai, in Abu Dhabi you can visit one of the most beautiful Islamic places of worship in the world, the great Sheikh Zayed Mosque. A landmark that is also of great interest is Happiness Island, connected to the mainland by two bridges, best known for its museums, the Arabic versions of the Louvre and the Guggenheim. Among the symbols that radiate all the wealth of Abu Dhabi are the Emirates Palace, the most luxurious hotel in Abu Dhabi, the Etihad Towers, and the presidential palace Qasr Al Watan. There are also beautiful beaches and unique theme parks, as well as the possibility of a trip to the desert.

Abu Dhabi

SHARJAH

Just a 30-minute drive from Dubai is the emirate that is best known for its traditional Arab architecture and where the life of the ordinary world takes place and strictly adheres to Islamic laws. Here you will get to know the Islamic culture best through the magnificent mosques, such as Al Noor stands, and the traditional souks. Sharjah is considered the cultural capital of the Emirates because it has numerous museums and cultural tourism facilities, the most famous of which is “Cultural Heritage Days”. In this emirate, you will have a unique opportunity to see almost all desert animals in their natural environment, from the Arabian antelope to the desert leopard, at the Arabian Wildlife Centre.

AJMAN

The smallest of all the emirates, Ajman is a real mix of different natural landscapes since it collides with the sea coast, the desert, and the Hajar mountain massif, which contains the impressive Masfout canyon and the 19th-century fortified castle at the very top of the mountain. Because of its diverse landscape, Ajman is the ideal destination for sports and adventure lovers. Perfect conditions await you here for hiking and cycling, glamping or glamorous camping, kayaking, fishing, and golfing in the Al Zorah Nature Reserve, as well as horseback riding in the Ajman Sud Horse Reserve. However, here too, more and more investments are being made in tourism; numerous hotels that captivate with their luxurious appearance are located right on the beach, and the traditional markets offer various valuables, from handmade carpets to high-quality gold.

UMM AL QUWAIN

To the east of Ajman is the emirate that is the least developed but also the least exposed to the glamour of the modern Arab world and where a stay is available to everyone. What makes it special is the fact that you can still see what the emirates looked like before the rapid development of

Abu Dhabi

Ras Al Khaimah

Old part of Dubai

Fujairah

tourism. Isolation from the rest of the luxurious environment contributed to the absolute preservation of the former occupations of the population, such as fishing, as well as the authentic landscape. It is known for its mangrove forests and beaches, where you can enjoy yourself for hours, completely free of charge.

RAS AL KHAIMAH

This emirate is known for endless sandy beaches, the most pleasant climate in the entire country, and the fact that its most luxurious hotels are located at the international airport, which has become a popular vacation spot for the local rich. Mount Hajar, standing opposite its coast, has made it possible to develop adventure tourism. The longest zip line in the world, called Jebel Jais Flight, which is located precisely in Ras Al Khaimah, attracts a lot of tourists. You should not miss a visit to the local National Museum, located in a fortress that was once the residence of the ruling family of this emirate.

FUJEIRA

Due to the fact that it opens onto the Indian Ocean, this emirate, located in the far east of the UAE, is considered a destination that offers the best conditions for diving and other water sports. Also, this is a place of large date plantations and endless fields under palm trees that stand in complete contrast to the skyscrapers of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Locals will tell you that Allah blessed this emirate with a rich coastline to make up for its lack of oil. The backbone of the city is the former fishing village of Diba, where the first luxury hotel was built 25 years ago and has remained the main lever of future modern tourism, to which Fujairah is slowly turning. For now, rather than luxury and commercial amenities, you will come across preserved fortresses, archaeological sites, one of the oldest mosques on the Arabian Peninsula made of stones and mud, and restaurants serving seafood versions of Arabic cuisine.

Abu Dhabi

Sharjah

Fujairah

Abu Dhabi

SALONE DEL MOBILE FURNITURE TRENDS

Modular furniture, rounded edges, vintage inspiration, eco-friendly materials, and ultimate comfort and elegance are some of the leading trends in the furniture industry that could be seen at the recently held Salone del Mobile in Milan. We present some of them

Photo: SALONE DEL MOBILE. MILANO By: ANA KRALJ

DESIGN

DelightFULL & Essential Home

It is often heard that the furniture industry is just like the fashion industry: every season new trends are launched, some go out of style or come back redesigned, and the most popular trends are usually dictated by the most famous brands. What kind of furniture will be in fashion this year, we just saw at the Salone del Mobile, the world’s largest furniture exhibition, which took place from April 18 to 23 as part of Milan Design Week.

The 61st edition of the world’s largest furniture fair brought together 1,962 exhibitors, including more than 550 talents under 35 and 27 design schools.

With a focus on creativity, innovation, and sustainability, Salone del Mobile was once again an opportunity for designers and manufacturers from around the world to showcase their best work and inspire the industry and designers of the future. More than 370,000 visitors came to the fair to check out the latest trends in the design of furniture, lighting, electrical appliances, and products for kitchens, bathrooms, outdoor spaces, and work spaces.

Given the sustainability trend that has been dominating the world of interior design for years, it was expected that this year at the Salone del Mobile we would see a large selection of eco-friendly prod -

Boca do Lobo

Dolce & Gabbana

Missoni

Luois Vuitton

Fendi Casa

Sakura

Kartell

Minotti

Cassina

ucts made of sustainable materials, such as bamboo, recycled plastic, recycled wood, recycled glass, and organic fabrics like cotton, linen, and hemp. Environmental, economic, and social responsibility were otherwise a priority in the program part of this year’s Salone del Mobile, which recently received the ISO 20121 certificate for the sustainable organization of the event.

In terms of design trends, what is most noticeable is the increasing supply of modular furniture, especially modular sofas. Modular furniture can be configured in numerous combinations and adapted to each space, thereby ensuring maximum com-

fort, which is today’s ultimate assumption of modern interior design.

Modular or not, furniture will definitely continue to follow the trend of rounded edges and soft lines in the coming seasons. Rounded edges contribute to the relaxing ambiance of any space, and in terms of comfort and ergonomics, they are definitely a winner without competition.

When it comes to colors, muted tones of natural colors will hardly go out of fashion due to their calming effect and supreme elegance that will enhance any space. However, it seems that this year the minimalism of clean lines and neutral colors

Ikea

Versace

Dior

Luxxu Tom Dixon

Visionnaire Home

got an alternative that turned towards maximalism, since there were a lot of collections and models in bright colors and bold patterns at the Salone del Mobile. This trend might require a little more courage, but in return, it will give the space a stamp of originality.

If you are a fan of retro chic, cheerful 70s and vintage details, feel free to follow your sensibility and let your creativity run wild, just as many designers and furniture manufacturers have done this year, offering models and collections that combine contemporary design and vintage elements. This year’s fair had a new cultural program, and

the biennial Euroluce light event was also held, whose layout was inspired by urban planning to reimagine it as a “city of light.”

Alongside Salone del Mobile, a variety of fringe events took place during the Milan Design Week, collectively known as Fuorisalone. What makes Fuorisalone so special is the fact that throughout the week, historical palazzos are taken over by brands, collectives and designers to showcase some of the most creative design installations.

Salone Del Mobile is the perfect place to meet the most amazing brands and their new releases in the design world. Let’s discover a selection of them.

Ikea

Versace

Loewe

Dolce & Gabbana

Boca do Lobo Knoll

EXHIBITION OF THE 45th SALON OF ARCHITECTURE

The 45th Salon of Architecture, organized by the Museum of Applied Arts in Belgrade and the Association of Architectural Practices (ASAP), took place from March 28 to April 24 and featured numerous events, panels, and discussions with lecturers from the country and abroad, as well as an exhibition of 61 professional and 24 student works. The jury, presided over by Prof. Dr. Werner Sobek, bestowed awards and honors at a special ceremony held in the Yugoslav Film Archive. The project “A house with a view of the Danube” by Milena Zindović (MZ Studio Architecture) received praise in the Architecture category. The work “Sveštica House”, MADA Architecture Studio, received praise for the project of an unfinished work in the same category. In the architecture category, the jury awarded the “Manhattan Concept K26 Project”, URED architecture studio and RE:A.C.T. In the Interior Architecture category, two works are praised: “Polet Group Interior Project” by Antipod Studio and “AUTORI OFFICE” by the Belgrade Studio AUTORI. The prize in the category of Interior Architecture was awarded to the project “Museum of Contemporary Art of the Republic of Srpska in Banja Luka” by studio Lopičić & Lopičić, Pavel Stamenović and collaborator Miloš Jokić. The Grand Prix was awarded for the reconstruction project of the Festislam Fortress (KOTO) and the “Stringers” project, created in cooperation between the Efemera Collective and the Center for Research and Education on the Holocaust. The audience award went to “A house on the Popare hill” of the Project Bureau KEJ from Valjevo.

“A house with a view of the Danube”, MZ Studio Architecture

“A house on the Popare hill”, Projektni biro KEJ

“Polet Group Interior Project”, Antipod Studio

“Sveštica House“, MADA Architecture Studio

AWARDS FOR THE NEW OFFICE TOWER IN SYDNEY

uay Quarter Tower in Sydney, with 54 floors of office space, has been one of the most awarded office buildings and skyscrapers in the world since it opened early last year. The MIPIM 2023 award for the Best Office and Business Project is just the latest in a series of awards that the Danish architectural studio 3XN and investor AMP Capital received for their innovative approach to the complete renovation and extension of the AMP Center, a business tower from 1976 that no longer met today’s requirements. Instead of demolishing the building, as was usually the case in the past, it was decided to integrate large parts of the existing supporting structure into a new high-rise building. The 206 meters-tall Quay Quarter Tower proves that architectural transformation is possible at a large scale. In this way, two-thirds of the beams, columns, floor slabs, and almost the entire core built in the 1970s could be retained. These central aspects of the radical sustainability concept contributed save nearly 12,000 tons of carbon dioxide compared to complete demolition and conventional new construction tons.

SUSTAINABLE “FLOATING” BUILDING ON THE WATER

The Sluishuis, an apartment building in IJburg, a neighborhood on artificial islands in Amsterdam, won the MIPIM 2023 award as the Best Residential Project. The building, which opened in July last year, was designed by Copenhagen-based Bjarke Ingels Group in collaboration with Rotterdam-based Barcode Architects. The building with 442 apartment units is built over the water, allowing boats to moor at a dock in the complex. The unusual shape makes the building appear to float above the water. The façade features two staircases that lead past the terraces to the roof, where there is a walkway and a view of the city. The Sluishuis is a sustainable building with an energy performance coefficient of 0.00. On the roof, the solar panels provide the energy for the LED lighting and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning in the complex. The building has a heat pump system, and its windows have been fitted with triple-insulated glass.

Photo: MIPIM

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

VELIMIR LJUBIBRATIĆ, landscape architect, in Burj Boulevard, one of the projects he participated in

MISTER VELIMIR’S MOST BEAUTIFUL DESERT PARKS

Velimir Ljubibratić, a landscape architect from Serbia, worked for more than three decades on the most significant greening projects of public spaces in Dubai, creating green oases that are today a world attraction

By: ANDRIJANA

In the 1990 photographs of Velimir Ljubibratić, a landscape architect from Serbia, Dubai as we know it today looks completely different. There is no hint of modern outlines. When he and his wife Sanja, more than three decades ago, arrived in the United Arab Emirates from Belgrade, the “city of skyscrapers”, the “capital of futurity,”, the urban epicenter of the Middle East, or whatever Dubai is now called, it did not have a single traffic light, and the number of inhabitants was ten times smaller. That is why the conversation with Mister Velimir, as he was addressed by his colleagues in Dubai, is quite an instructive chronology that tells not only about a successful career but also about the development of a world metropolis and the scope of landscape architecture in a part of the world where the climate is more than cruel to flora.

We had a conversation on a rainy afternoon in Belgrade, the day before his trip to Dubai, where he was recently re-engaged as director of landscape architecture at Bloom Holding. However, he did not leave the desert city until 2021, except during vacations, business trips, and a four-year “excursion” to Qatar, where he also laid out a path for public parks and gardens.

Like all top professionals, he talks modestly about his career and enviable experience with a pen in hand, turning a sheet of white paper into a rich sketch in a few seconds.

Do you remember the first project you worked on when you arrived in Dubai?

— Of course! It was Creekside Park, which spreads over an area of 100 hectares. By comparison, a football sta-

dium, with all the tracks for athletics, is one hectare. Both my wife and I got a job in the city administration department, which was the only investor at the time (Dubai Municipality). At that time, Dubai looked like a typical desert settlement where the epicenter of life was the souk. There was one main city road; there were no parks; and there were no organized green public areas. Since there were no standards for landscape architecture, we made the designs on tracing paper with rapidographs, establishing along the way a guide for the arrangement of the city and forming a team to work on it. Work on Creek Park lasted four years. And while it was still in one of the phases, the next project followed—Al Mamzar Park, slightly small -

Photo: PERSONAL ARCHIVE

CVETIĆANIN

Al Mamzar Park completely changed the appearance of the previously empty sandy peninsula

er at 99 hectares. In fact, it was a sandbar on which the coast had to be modeled, four beaches made, and all the necessary attractions and facilities for walking, sitting, entertainment, and creating an atmosphere created. Everything was done parallel to Creek Park.

Who were your colleagues, and how different was the work—not only because of the climate—compared to what you had been doing in Belgrade before that?

— On both projects, the consultants were from England. Dubai did not have its own landscape architects, so I employed engineers from Egypt, India, and the Philippines. I demanded that all collaborators be technically savvy, from draftsmen to engineers. Essentially, I was in charge of everything, from designing, budgeting, and procuring materials to the execution of works and the selection of contractors, and I presented each of those phases of the project for approval by the board of directors. So it is not possible to compare it with what I was doing in Belgrade until then. Not only because of the dimensions but also simply because it is not the same category. In the Belgrade Institute, we mostly worked on detailed plans, smaller locations, and urban-technical requirements within the framework of the development of detailed plans. For the first 11 years in Dubai, my wife and I were engaged in the city department, working on countless projects, and were twice awarded recognitions at the level of the entire Middle East. It was the Creek and Al

Mamzar parks that directed further development and dedication to the landscaping of the city.

What was your inspiration? How creative could you be in the sea of sand, from which you made green oases?

— Every project for me is an experiment, a challenge to do something new. You start from scratch, whether it’s sand or a white sheet of paper. Inspiration is everywhere; you just have to think about it. I always had in mind that I wanted something new—a new material, a new color, a new planting material. Whenever I heard about something new at congresses, I would apply it. In doing so, there was enough time to see how the solution I applied in the previous project reacted in the space. For example, while we were doing Creek Park, I made a temporary nursery on one hectare, and there we watched how the seedlings reacted to the climate and how they formed. We used various materials as they appeared on the market: stone, granite, marble, artificial stone, then artificial marble, glass, steel, and wood, because technology was constantly advancing.

Which plant species could possibly survive in that heat?

— All those that grow in that climate zone—arid and subtropical. We ordered planting material from Texas, Florida, Singapore, Tuscany, Malaysia, India,... Due to my persistence, three Dalmatian cypress trees were

Umm Sequimm Park today

Burj Boulevard is 3.2 kilometers long and is paved with granite

planted in one park. Only one survived. When I visited it after 15 years, it had grown six meters, and that was only because the surrounding vegetation and trees created a microclimate for it. All the seedlings there need special treatment. For some types of trees, awnings made of perforated canvas are installed to protect the seedlings from the sun.

Every tourist is amazed—how is it possible for the vegetation to grow so much? Where does the water for all those fabulous, huge parks, gardens, and fountains in Dubai come from?

— They have an excellent irrigation system. Water was never a questionable issue, even when we were just starting out with greening. Processed wastewater is used for green areas. The city is supplied by huge plants for the processing of sea water through the process of desalination, which means that the water can be drunk but is not enriched with mineral substances. After that, the wastewater is further separated into solid and liquid substances that are recycled. The solid waste is made into fertilizer, and the liquid material is returned to the city for irrigation. Everything requires a lot of energy and energy sources, and they have them. Everything was exceptionally resolved decades ago.

When did the urban boom in Dubai occur?

— At the end of the nineties, more precisely in 1997 and 1998. High-speed roads, bridges, interchanges

NEW CENTER OF THE CITY. THE WORLD’S HIGHEST SKYSCRAPER, THE LARGEST SHOPPING MALL, THE MUSIC FOUNTAIN, THE LONGEST BOULEVARD, THE ACCOMPANYING TRAFFIC WAYS WERE BEING BUILT... THE EYES OF THE ENTIRE PLANET WERE ON US

in the form of the so-called flyovers, and new settlements were built at an incredible speed, and all these investments were accompanied by the construction of green areas. My wife and I missed the first wave of that boom because we worked in Qatar from 2001 to 2005. There we encountered the same conditions as we had 10 years earlier in Dubai, which had completely transformed in just one decade.

What surprised you upon your return?

— Everything! Although we lived in Dubai for 11 years before that, we literally could not recognize some parts of the city after four years of absence. We would ask ourselves: What street was that now, or what highway; where did the new neighborhoods, skyscrapers, and beaches come from? Those were the years when more and more tourists started coming. Everything became different.

I PARTICIPATED IN THE BURJ KHALIFA CONSTRUCTION PROJECT AND THE ENTIRE

Arranged public area in a residential area

And then you started working for big investment companies?

— Yes, I started working for EMAAR while my wife continued her job in the city department. I entered the project of building the Burj Khalifa and the entire new city center and became part of the team that was engaged in the construction of the tallest skyscraper in the world, the largest shopping mall, a musical fountain, the longest boulevard of 3.2 km, which would be all in granite, accompanying roads... Consultants were from the USA and England. I remember that for the boulevard we envisioned palm trees ten meters in height, although it was usually done with trees between five and six meters tall.

Was there any stress due to the enormity of the — project?

The eyes of the whole planet were on us, and when the building started to sprout from the ground up, everything went kind of fast. How could there be no stress? Especially near the end of the whole project, since 2008, when the world economic crisis began. After that, I worked on the Arabian Ranches settlement project, which included several thousand villas and accompanying amenities. There were periods when I was working on 10 to 15 projects at the same time.

What has remained in your heart, what are you particularly proud of?

— One small park, Umm Sequimm, which covers only 2.7 ha. That’s where I installed the first children’s play-

ground and devices for disabled children. It was then on the outskirts of the city. I envisioned two circular areas for children to play, interconnected so that they can pass from one to the other completely safely, without cutting the sidewalk and bike paths. During the opening, I met Sheikh Al Maktoum, who particularly liked the park. He proposed that the park be a “ladies’ park”. Thus, on Tuesdays and Thursdays it was a Ladies’ day, and on the other days it was an open park. That project was in competition for the Aga Khan Architecture Award (AKAA), which is awarded to executed projects and architects from Muslim countries. Out of 256 nominated projects, we made it to the final four.

Do you have any advice for young colleagues?

— While you are elaborating your preliminary idea, take a walk in the park with your thoughts. Ask yourself, Are there enough benches in it? Is it enough to have one, two, or five in a row? What kind of nightlight effect do you want to achieve? Will children be safe on playgrounds? Where do the shadows of the tree line fall during the day? Then, use everything you can to enrich the content: a bridge, a restaurant, bike paths, safe pedestrian corridors. Go to a location and just watch where people walk by.

What would you say to those who intend to work in the Emirates?

— That they go there only after gaining experience and a university diploma. I saw many who came without experience and knowledge and returned to Serbia disap-

Greenery is standard along sidewalks and roads

pointed. If you know your business, you are valuable, and the Arab business world will appreciate that. The same applies to my profession and to all other professions. Keep in mind that Dubai is expensive, that you will have to rent an apartment and a car, and that the first three months are usually on probation. I didn’t switch

WORLD-CLASS BIOGRAPHY AND REFERENCES

from company to company just like that, but I received offers because of references and the trust they gained in me, and then I would think about it and decide afterwards. So, if you have no experience, you will have to start from the bottom. If, on the other hand, you have a rich CV, you will receive better offers

Velimir Ljubibratić graduated in horticulture at the Faculty of Forestry of the University of Belgrade. He worked for ten years at the Institute for City Planning of Belgrade (today the Urban Institute) and for two years at the Construction Institute.

During his 31 years of work in Dubai, he has lined up impressive projects in his portfolio. The parks he built from scratch, from the sand, are today a world attraction, and among them are: Al Mamzar Park, Umm Sequimm Park, Satwa Park, Karama Park, Creekside Park, Mushrif Park...

He built a recognizable personal style by designing urban oases, fountains, water bodies, from lakes to mini-rivers, botanical gardens, thematic units for children’s play, walking, parts intended for entertainment, learning, catering facilities built according to the old Bedouin architecture, amphitheaters and museums within parks of enormous dimensions. He worked for the largest investment companies from Dubai: EMAAR, ITHRA, Dubai Municipality, Meras... He is a member, by international invitation, of ASLA – the American Association of Landscape Architects, which is the most influential in the world. He is a member of the Association of Landscape Architects of Serbia. This year, he is the president of the Council of the 10th International Salon of Landscape Architecture, which is held in the SASA Gallery in Belgrade in June.

The entrance to the park made of plaster, reminiscent of old construction techniques in the desert

Rendering for one of the small parks in the local neighborhood

BATHROOMS AND THEIR STORIES

A bathroom is an important room in every residential unit, but due to our fast-paced lifestyle, it has started losing its charm. We give you some expert advice on how to give it a personal touch and turn it into your oasis of peace

Abathroom is the room where we are most often alone with our thoughts. Therefore, the power of this room should not be neglected. Its role is to make us relax, cheer up, accept us, listen to us, wake us up...

Whether you decide on a shower cabin or a bathtub, built-in or freestanding, with or without a bidet, one or two sinks, it is your personal choice, because these are the elements that depend most on our habits, desires, and objective possibilities on the spot. In this text, we will look at the hidden elements of the bathroom that have a significant impact on the final vibe and are

usually overlooked during the initial design of these small, magical rooms that are often given a lack of attention, although, in fact, they have the potential to provide us with a real oasis of peace. We will focus on some of the important parameters for bathroom design. People often choose a beige combination as a synonym for timeless beauty, but there are so many other possibilities and variations. If we take a peek into that colorful world, new perspectives and ideas will open up for us, and it will be difficult for us to dwell on classic beige tiles or the imitation of white marble.

ANA NENADOVIĆ, architect, Bureau Ana Nenadović

Photo: BUREAU ANA NENADOVIĆ

Text: ANA NENADOVIĆ

BATHTUB VS. SHOWER CABIN

Dynamics and lifestyle have influenced the bathroom concept. Previously, a bathroom without a bathtub was unthinkable, but today it is becoming an exception. Most people, due to practicality, speed, and daily routine, in general, opt for a shower cabin. Nobody has time for a hot bath, a glass of wine... And we all secretly wish for that. This hidden desire, however, is not at all unattainable. If we would stop and think, a bathtub, in essence, requires little and yet gives a lot. Half a square meter of space more than a shower cabin and about 15 minutes longer prepa-

ration later, and in return we get an immeasurable feeling of relaxation and comfort.

Where the dimensions of the bathroom allow, the installation of a free-standing bathtub, which is considered the queen among bathroom elements, will not only provide a superior atmosphere but also fill your eyes with its elegant beauty every day. It can be a classic white bathtub, but it can also be a marble one, or transparent, or with stylized legs... We can also combine a bathtub and a shower cabin in the same bathroom and get a completely natural ambiance.

We often hear that small tiles are more suitable for small spaces because the larger ones will “eat” them. That is a fallacy. If the technical possibilities allow, our sincere advice is to always choose ceramics of larger dimensions because it gives more possibilities and a more harmonious final result. Everything seems more compact and simply more beautiful. Ceramics of large dimensions allow us to better see the pattern on the tile. Also, if we combine it with a mosaic or some narrow, small tiles, we inject a dose of dynamism and playfulness into the space.

Another benefit of larger-sized tiles is the smaller number of joints. No matter how much care is taken and how regularly cleaning is carried out, grouts, especially when they are in lighter tones, inevitably get dirty. Large formats can even visually increase a small space because the absence of joints gives continuity and, therefore, creates a sense of spaciousness, so they are equally recommended for small as well as large spaces. So, throw away your fears and prejudices, and as a result, you will get a surprising effect in the form of large, beautiful pictures on the walls!

THE DIMENSIONS OF CERAMICS AS AN ETERNAL DILEMMA

Photo: Vladimir Miloradović

Photo: Višnja Jovanović

POSITION AND SIZE OF THE BATHROOM

Today, mostly small bathrooms are being built, and they are usually crowded and treated as side rooms. But actually, bathrooms can also have fireplaces, while shower cabins and bathtubs can be an integral part of the sleeping area. More and more often, the bathroom is directly entered from the master bedroom, which enables the symbiosis of these two rooms and opens up new possibilities for design.

The position and size of the bathroom are also important because of their functionality and quality of life. If the apartment is already occupied, it is complicated to change

the size of the rooms because it entails a lot of additional dirty work. But that’s why it’s always good, when we have the opportunity, to deal for a few more days with the layout of the rooms in order to find some more square footage to expand the bathroom.

In addition to the basic elements, it is important to find towels, bathrobes, dryers, a basket for dirty laundry, personal hygiene items, often makeup, and washing and drying machines in the bathroom. When the position of all primary and secondary elements is well planned, the bathroom itself imposes the minimum required square footage.

COLORS AND MATERIALS

Don’t be afraid of colors! We need to listen to ourselves, find out what pleases us, and boldly go in that direction. Color psychology and chromotherapy have been known for a long time, so we can simply apply their postulates to bathrooms. The ceiling is also an important element. By just changing the color of the ceiling, the atmosphere of the entire room is quickly and simply altered.

Ceramics, quartz, stone, washable wallpaper, techniques, paintings, moldings, glass, mosaic, terrazzo... Various elements and materials are suitable for bath-

rooms, and each of them can be used to create a special ambiance. It is important that they are resistant to water and that they are stable in bathroom conditions. For the floor, it is important that the tiles have a nonslip, matte finish, while on the walls, we can play with reflective surfaces with different textures. Actually, the key is to change the perception of the bathroom and start treating it like a room for bathing. Through this paradigm, we will experience this room differently and give it the necessary attention during the initial design.

Photo: Vladimir Miloradović

Photo: Anja Milojević

Photos: Goran Ivić

LIGHTING AND DECORATION

Important elements of every interior are light and the play of shadows. In addition to LED strips that offer us countless variants for discreet light decoration, there are many innovative elements for the bathroom on the market, such as transparent bathtubs and transparent sinks, the possibility of illuminating natural stone or mosaics,... With the function of additional lighting, their decorative power is not negligible either. If we boldly add a mural, picture, photo, or graphic, the bath -

room stops being just a service room and becomes a stylish personal haven. Just as we decorate rooms with wallpaper and moldings, we can apply the same principle to bathrooms. By changing the wallpaper, for example, which we can place only on one wall of the bathroom, and by changing the color of the ceiling along with the wallpaper, we can change the entire visual identity of the bathroom in a short period of time without major work or costs.

MIRRORS

Bathroom mirrors have a multipurpose function. In addition to the basic role of looking oneself in the mirror, they can also play the role of a complete wall covering. Some would say it’s only for clubs. Here again, we encounter prejudices. You should adapt your space to your own sensibilities, not to your own prejudices or to what most people do. We can also hide a cabinet with a mirror. Modern technique

allows us to adapt the size and shape of the mirror to our space, and with the help of LED strips, we can also contribute to the aesthetic value of this element. There are classic white mirrors, but they are also available in various other colors. Bronze and gray are the most common on the market, while if ordered or treated with foils, they can be made as yellow, blue, green,...

PAFFONI DESIGN FOR PASSION AND QUALITY IN YOUR BATHROOM

Faucets and shower systems from the latest collection of the Italian brand Paffoni, with their elegant design and simple lines, will fit perfectly into any modern bathroom, making its interior sophisticated and balanced

Photo: DIPLON KUPATILA

For more than half a century, recognizable Italian design, creativity, and quality have been the trademarks of the Paffoni company, founded way back in 1953 in Pogno, Italy. Paffoni faucets and shower systems are distinguished by their clean lines and accented details, giving a bathroom a touch of timelessness.

Following the trends in interior design, which set gold as the ultimate hit of the season, Paffoni launched a series of products in exactly this color. The color gold has always been a symbol of elegance and hedonism, making the wearer radiate strength, positive energy, and self-confidence. In a contemporary context, shades of gold are a feature of refined taste, elegance, and a sense for the composition of tones. Gold attracts attention and emphasizes its presence, so it should be carefully balanced with the environment to be a proud decoration without taking the main role in the room. This is exactly the effect achieved with gold-colored faucets and showers from the new Paffoni collection: they unobtrusively fit into the space and make the ambience compact while, at the same time, put -

ting the focus on an extremely refined and powerful detail. We highlight two luxurious series in the color gold from the Paffoni brand collection, whose products you can find at the Diplon Kupatila showroom.

LIGHT SERIES

It radiates harmony of proportions and proudly presents its simple lines, elegance, and sophisticated design. Sometimes less is more, goes the old saying, and in this case, it is completely true. The simplicity of the design, soft contours, and minimalistic composition contribute to the harmony and elegance of each product in the Light series.

BELINDA SERIES

The spirit of the past has a gloriously retro feel. Belinda two-handle faucets are inspired by antique style to create a unique balance in classic environments. Faucets with timeless shapes represent a fine mix of tradition and technology and are able to fit perfectly with contemporary furniture, giving your bathroom a touch of ultimate elegance.

You can find the exclusive Paffoni series in the Diplon Kupatila showroom and online store, and you can design your bathroom exactly as you have always imagined.

CONTACT

Diplon Kupatila

Grmeč 1 Nova 15, 11080 Zemun 011 22 50 502, 063 379 116, www.diplon.net

Light basin faucet Honey Gold

Light high basin faucet Honey Gold Light freestanding bath faucet Honey Gold

Belinda basin faucet bronze Belinda bath faucet bronze

Belinda basin faucet bronze

ISVEA – BATHROOMS IN MEDITERRANEAN COLORS

Modular bathroom furniture and sanitary ware with the Isvea brand signature and sophisticated color palettes push the boundaries in the design of bathroom equipment

You are strong and brave when you are yourself! Guided by this philosophy, the company Isvea launched a collection of bathroom furniture and sanitary ware that pushes the boundaries in design. Relying on their roots in Italy and in cooperation with famous designers and artists, they created an inspiring bathroom look with an authentic signature. The result of this approach is a considerable number of international awards for the design of bathroom equipment.

Angelucci family started a family business in 1962 in a small town near Rome. Constant progress and growth led them to a leading position on the local market. In 2013, Isvea became part of the global corporation Ece Holding, and production was moved to Turkey. They improved the production technology by going through constant quality controls and respecting European industrial standards while keeping the Italian charm.

Innovative, functional, and high-quality Isvea prod-

ucts will turn your bathroom into a modern living space. From the rich assortment, the Infinity, Sentimenti, Sistema series, as well as Sott’Aqua, with interesting freestanding sinks, stand out.

The Infinity collection is a combination of a modular approach and a sophisticated color palette inspired by the exotic. Petrol green, rustic burgundy, or matte black are some of the shades of sinks and console toilets offered on our market. The WAU Architetti studio from Turin created modular bathroom furniture that can be fit into an endless number of combinations, which is how the collection got its name. Colors like Art Ocean, Night Blue, and Ruby Red will make your bathroom a unique Mediterranean oasis of peace that everybody can enjoy.

Isvea bathroom equipment elements are produced in more than two million pieces per year and distributed in 50 countries around the world. You can find an exclusive offer for Serbia in the Diplon Kupatila showroom and online store.

Text and photo: DIPLON KUPATILA

CARPETS AND RUNNERS WITH YOUR LOGO OR DESIGN

Personalized floor coverings are a trend that pushes the boundaries of the creative approach to interior design. The TEPIH DIZAJN brand offers you the opportunity to enhance your home or business space with top-quality printed carpets and runners featuring your personal or company patterns

By: ANA KRALJ

The crown of every carefully arranged interior, which gives it the final signature, is a carpet. And it is not easy to choose, no matter how big the assortment in the showrooms is. If you ever wanted something completely different from what is on offer and you couldn’t find it, the solution is to design the carpet yourself or to choose a design you would like. Whatever you

imagine or choose, TEPIH DIZAJN will turn it into a superb personalized creation on the highest quality carpet backing in the desired dimensions, and you will get a unique and original carpet or runner for your home.

In addition to printed carpets, runners, and doormats for home use, TEPIH DIZAJN offers the possibility of manufacturing carpets for commercial prem-

Photo: PROMO LOGO

Photo: Freepik

ises with printed logos, advertising slogans, or company motifs. Renowned corporate brands on printed carpets have recognized the uniqueness that complements their business standards and highlights the company status. Branded runners at the entrance to the company and carpets with corporate motifs will elegantly enhance the office space and, above all, give it a completely original impression.

All you have to do is choose the design, and everything else will be taken care of by TEPIH DIZAJN, with top-quality imported carpet backings on offer that enable the highest quality graphics. An additional guarantee for the durability and quality of the printed image is provided by the latest-generation digital machines that TEPIH DIZAJN has in its production facility. Carpets are made from seven types of materials that differ in thickness, raw material composition, and backing. The maximum width of the carpet can be 1.6 meters, while the length can be up to 40 meters. The most popular dimensions on offer are 80 x 150 cm, 80 x 200 cm, 100 x 200 cm, 120 x 170 cm, and 160 x 230 cm. Apart from the possibility to design your own carpet or runner, TEPIH DIZAJN can offer you a large selection of readymade motifs for printing, such as oriental, geometric, linear, floral, children’s, landscape, or 3D.

The best guarantee of the quality of the TEPIH DIZAJN brand, which was launched last year, is the

fact that it is backed by the company PROMO LOGO, which has been successfully engaged in branding and production of printed items for marketing purposes for the domestic as well as the western and regional markets since 2004. The application of high technology and innovative solutions, along with up-to-date industrial graphic printers and the team of professionals, contributed to PROMO LOGO being recognized as one of the leaders in its field and gaining the long-term trust of renowned clients, such as Coca-Cola, Marbo, Apatinska pivara, Voda Voda, foreign and diplomatic missions, and many other companies.

Continual investment in the company’s develop ment, and above all in new equipment and technolo gy, resulted last year in the opening of a new produc tion facility and the launch of the TEPIH DIZAJN brand, which offers a completely new dimension of carpets, enriched by the innovative application of graphics and unlimited freedom to express your creativity.

CONTACT

PROMO LOGO d.o.o. Bežanijski zimovnik 1a, New Belgrade 011/2960-494 011/29 60 887 www.promologo.rs / office@promologo.rs www.tepihdizajn.rs / info@tepihdizajn.rs

Photo: Freepik

SUSTAINABILITY AND TREND-DEFYING AESTHETICS

By: ANDRIJANA CVETIĆANIN

Wood, minimalism, and innovation are the starting points in the work of Nataša Perković, an award-winning product designer from Sarajevo. Furniture with her signature exudes a sophisticated aesthetic that has attracted attention at fairs and competitions for years

Photo: PERSONAL ARCHIVE

NATAŠA PERKOVIĆ, designer

Photo: Haris Adžem

Just one look at the furniture made of wood and environmentally friendly materials, designed by Nataša Perković, is enough for the observer to recognize the warmth, minimalism and connection with nature. Nataša’s solutions exude simplicity while at the same time being extremely sophisticated. They are, in fact, a perfect combination of refined aesthetics and the author’s desire to combine material as a part of nature, unique manufacturing design and innovative technology in each individual piece of furniture. She began her professional career in Italy, where she was part of the team at the creative center Cittadellarte, Fondazione Pistoletto, and Great Britain, working first for the famous graphic design agency The Partners, and then collaborating with the Royal College of Art Helen Hamlyn Center for Design. She advanced her specialty skills in the Design Lab of the Kyoto Institute of Technology, and during her stay in Japan she designed an iconic chair made of recycled material from a palm oil factory and eco-vessels for the interior. Today, she is a lecturer at the Department for Unique Design of the Academy of Fine Arts in Sarajevo, a higher education institution where she graduated from and obtained her master’s degree at the Department for Product Design. At the same time, she also gave her special design artistic quality to the notable collections of several furniture manufacturers in Bosnia and Herzegovina. She is the winner of numerous awards – Grand Prix Collegium Artisticum, Zlatni Ključ at the Furniture Fair in Belgrade in 2016, ICONIC Interior Innovation Award at the largest international furniture fair Imm Cologne, German Design Award – Special Mention, Big SEE in several categories, Red Dot Designer Award 2021 for an extremely light chair from the “Air” collection, designed according to the principle of sustainability...

Identifying one’s own style is probably the hardest thing for any designer. How would you respond to this challenge?

— I love warmth, calmness, nature, and innovation, and I strive to develop products with these qualities. We live in a time of hyperproduction and excessive consumption, so I am guided by the idea that there must be a good reason to develop one more product based on my design. I strive to design highly aesthetic products that resist the trend, that is, products that, apart from beautifying their users’ everyday lives, have a tendency to last. As a member of the millennial generation, environmental and social sustainability are very important to me. Hence, my products have a chance to be sustainable and not end up in the waste stream after a few years.

Your focus is on wood and natural materials. How much did the fact that your father and grandfather worked in the renowned Šipad factory affect that?

— My grandfather Mile Perković and father Mladen spent almost their entire working lives in Šipad. I remember wood samples and conversations about woodworking, furniture, design, and art, which were always present at our home. As a young designer, the domestic furniture industry did not attract me much. However, after completing my studies and the experience I gained in London and Italy, where I took my first professional steps, when I returned to BiH, the furniture industry that was being renewed here presented itself as a good opportunity for work.

Which awards surprised you the most, and, in general, how much do recognitions mean to you in terms of motivation?

— The first awards for the “Elle“ chair, produced by the then manufacturer MS & Wood (now rebranded GoEs), such as the Zlatni Ključ at the Belgrade Furniture Fair in 2016 or the Iconic: Interior Innovation Award from the Imm Cologne Fair in 2017, were an indication for me that I was going in the right direction. At that moment, as a young author, I needed confirmation. In the meantime, I tried to strengthen my own design criteria and, together with the

Elle chair, GoEs

management, develop the brand’s creative strategy. After all, the success of a product is measured by its own standards and, of course, by the user’s perception. Later, the Red Dot award for the “Air“ chair, which arrived in 2021, marked a good start to the development of the GoEs brand. I was impressed that the jury recognized the aspect of sustainability, since that angle of design is quite unexplored among companies in the region. Before that, during 2017 and 2018, at the invitation of Kyoto Design Lab, a research institute in Kyoto, I attended a training specialty course in the field of sustainable design and new materi-

friends and colleagues. It is also a great “reward“ for me when the factory hires more people to work on some aspect of my furniture. Design as a discipline is connected to society, and the integration of its positive impact on the community is very important to me.

How difficult is it today to encourage young people to be authentic, when we live in a time of copy-paste patterns?

als and technologies, which was also a kind of confirmation that what I do is worthwhile. I tried to transfer and implant all the acquired knowledge in my environment, even if it was in a less complex form. In addition, I invest a lot of energy in getting manufacturers to turn to sustainability as an absolute prerequisite for appearing in developed markets, and this requires additional planning and even investment. However, for me personally, the greatest reward is the moment when the prototype of the product is realized, when the work goes from a field of ideas to a tangible reality. The furniture I design is innovative, and therefore the solutions are often complex in technical terms, that is, in the realization itself. That’s why I feel elation but also relief when something becomes a fully realized product. The process usually involves a series of prototypes. An example of this is the “Elle” chair, which took as many as seven attempts to be fully realized! Also, I am especially pleased when my home furniture is chosen by

— I have been privileged to work with students for 13 years at the Product Design Department of the Academy of Fine Arts in Sarajevo, where I am currently an assistant professor. I completed my assistantship under the mentorship of academicians Professor Emeritus Zlatko Ugljen and Professor Emeritus Ognjenka Finci. The Department is conceived to prepare students for multiple design activities. Among other things, through the courses in the final years of study – Industrial Design and Unique Design, which I teach. We strive to encourage students to recognize conceptual and aesthetic tendencies, to take the first conscious, authorial steps through works, and develop their own authorial expression. A young author with a personal attitude must be ready to face all the challenges of professional activity in a country where product design is not yet a mainstream discipline. Our students are employed in Bosnia and Herzegovina and abroad as product designers, but also as graphic designers, stage designers, costume designers, interior designers, textile designers, and fashion designers. More and more often, they also launch their own brands that have a lot of potential. We are here to recognize their potential and systematically develop it into concrete knowledge and competences. My task is to encourage these young people to reach their maximum, to challenge themselves, and to get progressively better, which is not always easy. I believe that, in general, primary, secondary, and even higher education does not prepare young people for creation as the highest level of learning, nor does it encourage them to excellence.

Elle bar stool, GoEs Elle chair, GoEs Air chair, GoEs

I INVEST A LOT OF ENERGY IN GETTING MANUFACTURERS TO TURN TO SUSTAINABILITY AS AN ABSOLUTE PREREQUISITE FOR APPEARING IN DEVELOPED MARKETS

How do you assess the state of product design in the furniture industry in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region?

— The situation is not great, neither in Bosnia and Herzegovina nor in the region. It is true that this industry is constantly evolving, however, a smaller number of companies within it offer designed solutions. Most still work for other brands, thanks to lower production costs compared to European countries. Those who are focused on the local market will be able to do business without a designer for some time, that is, until a new generation of users with different needs comes along. There is a production culture here, but there is no design culture or it is not sufficiently understood. Manufacturers sometimes underestimate it, equating it with styling, but it is actually a complex discipline, focused on the polyvalent essence of the product – from the concept, functions, aesthetics, ergonomics, through the method of production and sustainability, to the presentation of the product. Design is a category that is woven into every modern economic activity and that carries great economic potential. It is a sine qua non for the development of a brand or a company that plans to work long-term, on the domestic, European or global market. However, things are slowly changing and more and more furniture brands are hiring designers as creative directors. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, for example, this is the case with the brands Artisan, Zanat, Gazzda, Woak and GoEs. In Croatia, it is practiced by Prostoria, Nunc, Milla & Milli, Metoda, in Serbia GIR and Catra, in North Macedonia Fagus, in Slovenia Rex Kralj and Donar. There may be some others that I left out... The point is that certain companies that are dominantly focused on design started from scratch and developed respectable furniture brands in a higher price category, which in our conditions is an undertaking of epic proportions. However, I will be critical and say that many of them often do not have a creative strategy for progressive development. Namely, it happens that their first products are innovative and bold, after which they take fewer risks and continue to

offer typologies that have already been tried on the market. They lack freshness, partly because they collaborate with the same designers.

How can this be changed?

— It is important to develop the design scene and design culture in each country individually, although it is also possible to do this at the regional level. Companies can be significant actors on the scene, but it is necessary that state institutions of culture, higher education institutions, associations of designers, fairs, galleries, museums, etc., partic-

ipate to a greater extent. The design should be branded, recognizable, and a sought-after product, such as Danish or Italian design. Only then will the products from these areas reach a high market value.

What are you currently working on, and, if it’s no secret, what chair are you sitting on while answering our questions?

— I’m sitting on the “Elle“ chair with armrests, which I designed for GoEs. In the past period, I worked on the creative strategy of this brand, followed the development of a new product – the “Alpha“ armchair, which Stefano Bigi designed for them. Together, we developed “Zen“, a dining chair with bent wooden elements, which will be presented this year. Last year, I also developed several sofa models, but I am still looking for a manufacturer who could develop some of them into a high-quality final product.

THERE IS A PRODUCTION CULTURE HERE, BUT THERE IS NO DESIGN CULTURE OR IT IS NOT SUFFICIENTLY UNDERSTOOD. MANUFACTURERS SOMETIMES UNDERESTIMATE IT, EQUATING IT WITH STYLING

Elle table, GoEs

Elle chair, GoEs

CHRISTOFLE: A NEW INTERPRETATION OF THE ROYAL TRADITION

Once an indispensable accessory in royal courts, Christofle products are today a dynamic, desirable, and recognizable segment of table settings, with some pieces, such as the Mood cutlery, that have become mega-popular style icons

By:

In previous centuries, there was no court or palace that was not equipped with silver objects made by the famous French manufacturer Christofle. Since the founding of the company in 1830 until today, Christofle has established itself as a leading European manufacturer of luxury silverware that has always looked ahead in its development, guided by a combination of technological and aesthetic research and professional progress.

The founder of the company, Charles Christoffel, left his job as a jeweler in 1842 to establish the first factory for the production of silver and silver-plated dinnerware as well as kitchen tableware. His high reputation allowed him to soon become the official manufacturer for King Louis Philippe and Emperor Napoleon III Bonaparte. In 1850, Napoleon Bonaparte ordered gilded cutlery for the Elysée Palace, and from then on, the Christofle company began supplying its products to distinguished clients of that time, such as the imperial families of Germany, Austria-Hungary, Russia, Mexico, the Ottoman Empire, etc.

In 1903, the last Serbian king from the Obrenović dynasty, Aleksandar, sent a request to the Christofle company for the production of cutlery and several silver decorative items in the style of Louis XVI from the Perles collection, but the order was never realized due to the May Coup.

Photo: SUN, MOON & STARS

NATALIA DROBNJAKOVIĆ

The modern dynamics of living and new trends and needs have influenced the redefinition of the company’s goals. Today’s collections represent a variation of styles and forms that follow the mood and instincts of modern consumers, offering plenty of contrasts, from pure classicism to urban design translated into silver, which satisfies both the aesthetic and the utilitarian functions of every household.

In the previous period, the artistic stamp was imprinted on silver creations in collaboration with the famous Gio Ponti, Lino Sabattini, Christian Lacroix, Adam Tihany, and other creative magicians of design. Contemporary collections carry recognizable elements of the realized imagination of Karim Rashid, Ora Ito, Toni Grilo, Andrée Putman, and Marcel Wanders, as well as young designers from the art studio of the Christofle factory.

Although the table setting will never be as exclusive as it was in the 19th century, the improved style and distinctive taste of the modern era bring new trends: simplification in table presentation, completely minimizing forms, reducing them to geometric and orthogonal forms, and using light and shadow to achieve a rational effect. Today, Christofle products are a dynamic, desirable, and recognizable segment of the table setting, with some pieces, such as the Mood cutlery, that have

become mega-popular style icons. The impeccably ergonomically designed Mood dining set, silver-plated, silver, gilt, or gold, housed in a perfectly designed egg-shaped bowl, extremely practical and decorative, magically attracts the family to gather around the table. If we put it on a shelf or showcase in the living room after use, we get an exceptional sculptural work of art that decorates our living space. This world-leading manufacturer of exclusive silver items of superior quality and distinctive design has transformed the simple act of dining into a magnificent ceremony of complete enjoyment and has become an inseparable part of our family’s oasis of hedonism.

Exceptional collections of items for household equipment are a recognizable feature of the multi-brand concept Sun, Moon, and Stars. From now on, in addition to the well-known address at Nušićeva 25, you can find famous brand products in the new store in TC Galerija.

TODAY’S CHRISTOFLE COLLECTIONS REPRESENT A VARIATION OF STYLES AND FORMS THAT OFFER PLENTY OF CONTRASTS, FROM PURE CLASSICISM TO URBAN DESIGN TRANSLATED INTO SILVER

Mood cutlery

THE BMW STORE: A NEW DIMENSION OF LUXURY

“The BMW Store”, recently opened in Galerija Beograd and covering an incredible 500 m2, represents a carefully designed sales concept created according to the highest BMW standard

By: ANA KRALJ

With the recent opening of “The BMW Store” in Galerija Beograd, the most exclusive BMW and MINI models are now all available in one location, along with the original Lifestyle program. Visitors can now customize a new vehicle to their preferences with the aid of a sales advisor and “virtual reality,” which provides a true representation of the desired car.

The ultimate comfort of a contemporary interior that makes you feel at home completes the one-of-a-kind shopping experience. While relaxing in a cozy BMW living room and sipping your preferred beverage from the BMW bar, you can design a new car with the help of experts who will also guide you through the latest trends in the electrification field. With the goal of meeting the needs of even the most demanding customers, this unique sales concept surpasses previous experiences and sets new standards for car-buying.

In addition to the extraordinary offer of the most exclusive cars, which are a symbol of power, prestige, and elegance, fans of the BMW brand also have a large selection of original accessories, clothing, and fashion accessories, as well as a travel program of high-quality suitcases, bags, and backpacks. “The BMW Store” is also an ideal place for choosing the perfect gifts for your loved ones, such as mugs, calendars, wallets, umbrellas, and pendants. It also offers items from the “Montblanc for BMW” collection, which exude luxury. BMW also thought of the youngest, so in “The BMW Store,” you can find popular pushchairs for children, bicycles, scooters, children’s wardrobes, miniatures and cars, coloring books, and plush toys.

Photo: BMW

BMW X5 – A LEADER OF ITS CLASS

The new BMW X5 model, which stands for the most well-liked SUV in our country, was unveiled along with the opening of “The BMW Store”. On that occasion, BMW Connected Drive, now also available in Serbia, was officially presented. It is an innovative vehicle usage concept that enables a number of benefits for drivers through Comfort, Security & Safety, and Entertainment segments.

BMW MOTORRAD CORNER

“The BMW Store” has also prepared a real treat for lovers of motorcycles and exciting rides on two wheels. Fans of the BMW Motorrad brand will find a special selection of attractive, premium motorcycles that will mark this season, as well as accessories that make driving even more interesting. BMW adventurers, dreamers, inventors, athletes, and visionaries are also celebrating 100 years of the “Make Life a Ride” spirit this year, enthusiastically welcoming new adventures.

A “NO WALLS, NO DOORS” RESORT IN BALI

Waking up at Buahan, A Banyan Tree Escape, a “no walls, no doors” resort, is nothing short of magical: only a gauzy curtain hangs between your bed and the chlorophyll-rich Buahan Valley fanning out right below your villa. Birdsong echoes between the hills, which roll on—mist-shrouded and palm-tufted—until they meet central Bali’s seven peaks in the hazy distance. The air smells damp and jungly and is sweetened with a hint of frangipani. The hotel, which was opened last summer, has only 16 villas and a two-story central pavilion from which a dreamy infinity pool protrudes into the valley. Each villa is an open-air pavilion with creaky floors, girthy pillars from reclaimed ironwood, and vaulted roofs bedecked in wooden shingles. They have no walls, just breezy curtains for privacy and roll-down bamboo shades in case of rain. The views range from lush jungle scenes to terraced rice fields. During the construction, the developer avoided the use of heavy machinery to keep most of the jungle intact and used ironwood reclaimed from fishing boat decks as the main construction material. The villas are free of plastic.