Urban Oases

Belgrade Urban Oases: Sustainable Transformation of Neglected Spaces

The Belgrade Urban Oases project will refresh three neglected urban spaces in Belgrade, using the power of art and community engagement. During this initiative, selected locations will receive a redesigned look with a focus on new green spaces and urban elements. The students of the University of Belgrade – Faculties of Forestry and Architecture will be responsible for the new, participatory design of three locations in Belgrade, in cooperation with their professors, domestic and international experts and the local community. Belgrade’s urban oases will also deal with activating the local community through urban design workshops for citizens, public events and artistic interventions, in which children and adults from two welfare institutions will be actively involved. In this way, key urban points that encourage awareness of the environment, sustainability and inclusiveness will be created. The project is taking place during 2024.

The three urban areas in focus are the surroundings of the Youth Integration Center on Zvezdara (CIM), the Center for Accommodation and Day Care for Children and Youth with Disabilities in Julina Brdo, as well as the location near the Arboretum of the Faculty of Forestry in Banovo Brdo.

Belgrade Urban Oases is a project of EUNIC Serbia, Belgrade International Week of Architecture (BINA), University of Belgrade – Faculty of Architecture and Faculty of Forestry, Center for Youth Integration (CIM) and Center for Accommodation and Daycare for Children and Youth with Developmental Disabilities.

Read more in the first announcement: Day of Belgrade Urban Oases at the 19th Belgrade International Architecture Week

Read more in the second announcement: Belgrade Urban Oases Day Held at the 19th Belgrade International Architecture Week

### Urban Oasis 1: Center for Youth Integration (CIM)

Located at the Center for Youth Integration (CIM) in Zvezdara, this oasis transforms a neglected public space into a vibrant, multi-use area for at-risk children and the entire neighborhood. Spearheaded by students from the University of Belgrade’s Architectural Faculty and BINA, the project enhances social interactions, safety, and the aesthetic quality of the space. Workshops and artistic interventions educate children and community members on sustainable usage, creating a dynamic and inclusive environment. The final design, chosen through public and professional evaluation, will be unveiled in September 2024.  

### Urban Oasis 2: Julino Brdo Neighborhood

Situated in Julino Brdo, this oasis reimagines an unfurnished and neglected space into a friendly communal area. Conceptualized by students of Landscape Architecture and Horticulture, the design features green spaces, seating areas, and planters, transforming concrete platforms into inviting spots. Inspired by the idea of a ship, the project fosters community cooperation and social activities. The new space, enriched with vegetation and a useful garden, will serve as a hub for various gatherings and collaborations, enhancing both the social and ecological fabric of the area.

### Urban Oasis 3: Arboretum of the Faculty of Forestry

Nestled within the Arboretum of the Faculty of Forestry in Banovo brdo, this oasis creates a serene and educational escape in nature. Master’s students designed a Summer Classroom, a small amphitheater surrounded by themed paths like the honey path and bird path. Using natural and recycled materials, they crafted mobile cafes and animal houses, integrating art and ecology. Here, the project hosts events like ecology lectures, concerts, and collaborative art sessions, attracting visitors of all ages to explore and enjoy the Arboretum’s natural beauty.