Vladimir Đorić, Partner at Zabriskie and President of the Board of the Association of Serbian Architectural Practices (ASAP), spoke to Nedeljnik about the contemporary role of the architectural profession in Serbia, the economic importance of the architectural services industry, and the future directions of the profession.
In the interview, Đorić presented the results of the “ASAP Ecosystem” research, which included 100 architectural firms from across Serbia and, for the first time, provided a comprehensive overview of the state of the industry. The findings indicate that architectural practices in Serbia are stable, professionally mature, and represent a significant economic segment of the construction sector. The total turnover of ASAP member firms in 2024 amounted to approximately €35 million, while the overall architectural services market in Serbia is estimated at over €200 million, with strong growth recorded over the past several years.
Đorić also emphasized the importance of the architectural profession in employing young professionals, as well as positive trends in gender balance within the industry. The international competitiveness of Serbian architectural practices was particularly highlighted, given that more than 60% of ASAP members export their services.
Speaking about relations with investors, Đorić stressed that high-quality architecture is achieved through a partnership-based approach, in which architects are recognized as strategic collaborators who contribute to the long-term value of projects and the quality of the built environment.
The interview also addressed the significance of ASAP’s membership in the Architects’ Council of Europe (ACE), as well as the strategic objective of establishing a Chamber of Architects, which would further strengthen the institutional framework of the profession and improve business standards.
Đorić concluded that the long-term goal for the development of the architectural profession in Serbia is its positioning as a strategically important industry, contributing to the economy, society, and the overall quality of life.
The full interview is available on the Nedeljnik website:
https://www.nedeljnik.rs/arhitektura-izmedju-profita-i-odgovornosti/