In the heart of Europe, a city’s ambitious expansion project has been a canvas for urban planners, architects, and engineers for over a century. New Belgrade, the modern extension of Serbia’s capital, has been a testament to evolving urban planning strategies, shaped by socio-political circumstances and technological advancements. Now, a new study published in ‘Facta Universitatis. Series: Architecture and Civil Engineering’ (which translates to ‘University Facts. Series: Architecture and Civil Engineering’) is shedding light on the morphological evolution of New Belgrade’s urban blocks, offering insights that could reshape future developments and even impact the energy sector.
Lead author Sara Milošević, from the Academy of Technical and Art Applied Studies Belgrade, Department School of Civil Engineering and Geodesy of Applied Studies, has delved into the planning and construction history of New Belgrade, focusing on the transformation of its residential blocks. “The design uniformity of these blocks is striking,” Milošević notes, “but it’s the impact of recent urban concepts that makes this analysis particularly relevant for today’s planners and developers.”
The study applies a morphological analysis to selected urban blocks, treating them as basic spatial units of New Belgrade. By examining these blocks through various criteria, Milošević provides a structured understanding of the city’s urban structure development and transformation. This analysis is not just about aesthetics or history; it’s about functionality and sustainability, factors that are increasingly crucial in the commercial sector, including energy.
As cities worldwide grapple with energy efficiency and sustainable urban development, the lessons from New Belgrade could be invaluable. The study’s findings could influence how residential blocks are designed and constructed, potentially reducing energy consumption and improving sustainability. “Understanding the past helps us design the future,” Milošević explains, highlighting the practical applications of her research.
The commercial impacts are significant. Energy-efficient buildings and smart urban planning can lead to substantial cost savings for developers and residents alike. Moreover, as cities strive to meet carbon emission targets, insights from this research could guide policymakers and urban planners in creating more sustainable and energy-efficient urban spaces.
Milošević’s work is a reminder that urban planning is not just about buildings and roads; it’s about people and their needs. It’s about creating spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, sustainable, and energy-efficient. As New Belgrade continues to evolve, so too will the strategies for urban development, shaped by research like Milošević’s and driven by the need for sustainability and efficiency in the energy sector.
In an era where urbanization is on the rise, and energy efficiency is a global priority, the lessons from New Belgrade could echo far beyond its borders. This research is not just about a city; it’s about a model for future urban developments worldwide.