Zabjelo Community Centre, Podgorica

The Zabjelo Community Centre was conceived as a new civic heart for one of Podgorica's fastest-growing residential districts. The project responds to the need for a contemporary public building that brings together healthcare, education, culture, recreation and community life within a single accessible destination.

Our approach was guided by the concept of The Community Courtyard. Rather than creating a standalone object building, we developed a three-storey civic structure organised around a protected landscaped courtyard that acts as the social centre of the project. The courtyard provides a safe and welcoming environment for all generations, encouraging interaction between children, families, young people and older residents while creating a strong connection between indoor and outdoor activities.

The proposal combines a Health Centre, Library, Multipurpose Hall, Youth Facilities, Senior Club, Community Rooms, Administrative Functions and Public Café within a flexible and adaptable framework capable of supporting future community needs. Particular attention was given to creating a clear and intuitive public realm, ensuring that the building remains open, welcoming and highly accessible.

Architecturally, the project draws inspiration from Mediterranean civic architecture and Podgorica's climate, using warm terracotta, limestone, deep shading elements, green roofs and natural ventilation strategies to create a sustainable and enduring landmark. The design seeks to strengthen local identity while providing a contemporary community destination that supports wellbeing, learning, culture and social cohesion.

The result is a civic building that not only accommodates the functional requirements of the brief but also creates a strong sense of place, belonging and community ownership for the people of Zabjelo.