Transforming a 1950s constructivist pavilion in Belgrade

WilkinsonEyre has submitted its proposal to revitalize Belgrade Fair Pavilion 1, a constructivist building with a direct view of the Sava River. The project involves the transformation of the fair pavilion into a mixed-use destination including three cultural spaces and commercial spaces, as well as the redesign of the riverfront park.

“The existing structure is an incredible example of Eastern European constructivist architecture,” WilkinsonEyre Director Sebastian Richard tells us. Built between 1954 and 1957 by architects Branko Žeželj and Milorad Pantović, Belgrade Fair Pavilion 1 has a distinctive circular shape covered by a 109-meter dome. It is the largest dome in the world, built of prestressed concrete. “Working with such an extraordinary structure, our main intent was to create contemporary interventions that contrast with the historic fabric.”

To achieve a minimal and respectful intervention, the design proposal focused on the “box-in-a-box” concept, introducing structures detached from the main roof. “The building envelope will need careful restoration care, but the overall original architecture will remain more or less unchanged.” The three new spaces to be introduced-an opera house, an opera house, and a flexible theater-are surrounded by a flexible open space on the ground floor.

The architecture privileges green park spaces and visual connections to the Sava River in its design, culminating in an entrance and featuring a terraced design for easy access. Adaptive landscaping supports daily activities and cultural events, while an outdoor amphitheater by the river increases year-round engagement. “The area between the existing building and the river is a large area that would be transformed into a publicly accessible park,” Sebastian Richard continues. “The ambition of the proposal is for the main building and the surrounding park to become the centerpiece of the public cultural district of the overall riverfront project. A vibrant new public space for Belgrade, accessible to all.”