TALKS
Public forum: Urban Voids
February 13, 2025 | 5:30 PM
In urban areas across Croatia and beyond, there is a growing number of abandoned, underutilised, or completely unused spaces. Vacant buildings, empty commercial premises, and neglected land remain unutilised for years, while at the same time, there is an increasing demand for spaces for housing, work, culture, creative industries, and community activities.
The public forum Urban Voids, taking place at Urania – Space of Creation on Thursday, February 13, at 5:30 PM, will address key questions regarding the regulation, activation, and potential of these spaces. The panel brings together experts in economics, real estate, and urban development to discuss current policies and possible guidelines for the systematic and sustainable utilization of abandoned spaces.
Panel participants:
- Prof. Dr. Josip Tica, Professor at the Department of Macroeconomics and Economic Development, Faculty of Economics, University of Zagreb, expert in real estate markets and urban economics.
- Dubravko Ranilović, Director of Kastel Nekretnine and President of the Real Estate Business Association at the Croatian Chamber of Commerce, a long-time real estate market analyst.
- Filip Dumbović, Director and Partner at the Zagreb office of Avison Young, specializing in commercial real estate, valuations, and investment analysis.
- Mladen Vedriš, professor, economist, and business expert with extensive experience in both the public and private sectors.
The goal of the forum is to foster a constructive dialogue between experts and the wider public on the challenges and opportunities of reactivating abandoned spaces. Key topics will include legal, economic, and market barriers to their utilization, as well as potential initiatives that could facilitate their integration into urban development.
What measures could encourage property owners to activate unused spaces? How can regulations adapt to the dynamic needs of the market and urban landscape? In what ways can underutilised spaces contribute to the quality of life in cities?
This discussion opens the door to new ideas and concrete strategies for the future development of urban environments.
Seats are limited, so please reserve your spot here. Admission is free!
