News & ideasFirst life, then spaces, then buildings – Milka Gnjato at Arhitekta Forum

News

19 / 05 / 2026

At Zabriskie, we believe that architecture must start with the human scale. This philosophy was the focal point at the recent Arhitekta Forum in Belgrade, where our partner Milka Gnjato (Partner, Design Strategy & Sustainability) delivered a compelling presentation on the future of our cities.

Milka shifted the dialogue toward urban sociology and the spaces between buildings, reminding us that “the city is the most precise record of society.”

Key insights from the lecture included:

  • Walkability = Economic Resilience

    Cities designed around people create stronger local economies, healthier communities, and more vibrant public life.

  • The Power of “Third Places”

    The critical role of public squares, shared courtyards, and community spaces in fostering social cohesion and urban vitality.

  • Urban Policy & Green Infrastructure

    A comparison between European planning frameworks and local regulations, advocating for policies that prioritize permeability, soil health and ecologically functional green infrastructure.

As a practice committed to high-quality Architecture, we will continue advocating for integrated design strategies that put people, nature, and social interaction first.

Share this article: FACEBOOK / LINKEDIN