Belgrade Tower, also known as “Kula Beograd” in Serbian, stands as a striking skyscraper that has dramatically reshaped the city’s skyline, swiftly emerging as a defining symbol of Belgrade. In this article, we will explore the location, design, and significance of this architectural marvel, which stands as the focal point of the rapidly expanding modern district of Belgrade Waterfront.
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Belgrade Tower Location
Belgrade Tower stands adjacent to Galerija Shopping Mall in the prestigious Belgrade Waterfront development, a project that has transformed the city’s waterfront area into a vibrant and modern district. The tower is part of a larger urban renewal project that seeks to revitalize the area and create a new hub for business, culture, and leisure activities.
Redefining Belgrade’s Skyline
The Belgrade Tower’s sleek and futuristic design sets it apart from the surrounding buildings, making it a focal point of the skyline. Rising to a height of 168 meters and boasting 41 floors, it is the tallest building in Serbia, symbolizing the city’s ambitious vision for the future.
Construction on Belgrade Tower commenced in 2016 and the skyscraper was topped out in 2021. The official opening is scheduled for fall 2024. The tower was designed by the esteemed American architectural firm Skidmore, Owings and Merrill, renowned for iconic structures such as the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the world’s tallest building.
Unique Twisted Design & Facade
The entire facade system was specifically designed and manufactured for this building. It stands out as one of the few structures in Europe achieving a 90-degree rotation in just ten floors, rendering standard facade systems unsuitable due to its unique and intricate geometry. This is particularly pronounced in the section where Belgrade Tower “twists,” resulting in curved facade glass. The rotated silhouette symbolically represents the nearby confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, imparting a sense of fluidity to the structure.
Belgrade Tower also boasts state-of-the-art technology installed on the facade. The media facade, for example, is used to display specially designed animations marking significant dates and events. The length of the LED lights comprising the media facade exceeds eight kilometers, with energy-efficient and highly durable bulbs.
The tower’s facade consists of nearly 14,000 glass and other panels, with bird-friendly glass installed up to the ninth floor, featuring lines visible only to birds to prevent collisions. Another notable feature of the facade glass is its spectral selectivity, maximizing light transmission while minimizing energy loss.
St. Regis Hotel & Luxury Apartments
The Belgrade Tower houses a mix of residential units and a hotel, making it a mixed-use development. This skyscraper holds the record for the highest-priced square meter of an apartment in Serbia. In 2023, a 143-square-meter apartment in this building was sold for a staggering 11,475 euros per square meter.
Spanning the first nine floors, the opulent 119-room St. Regis Hotel will provide unparalleled luxury and hospitality. From the 14th to the 39th floor, the building will host the first St. Regis branded luxury apartments in this region of Europe, setting a new standard in upscale living. There will be 220 such apartments. Residents will have access to hotel services such as a concierge service, swimming pool, spa center, and sports facilities, as well as the renowned St. Regis Residences Butlers.
The 13th floor will be dedicated to technical rooms, breaking the residential pattern. Additionally, the 12th floor will offer a double-level layout, as the number 13 will not appear on the control panels of any of the 15 elevators in the building.
Belgrade Tower Restaurants & Observation Deck
On the 40th floor, two exquisite restaurants are set to open, offering a culinary experience with breathtaking views. Ascending to the 41st floor, visitors will discover a panoramic observation deck featuring both indoor and outdoor areas. Access to these amenities will be facilitated by dedicated lifts, ensuring a swift journey of just 25 seconds.
Selfie Bridge
In front of the Belgrade Waterfront Tower lies the iconic “Selfie Bridge,” a panoramic semi-circle structure designed for pedestrians and cyclists, offering stunning views of the Sava River. This bridge is a key feature of a sprawling promenade that extends from Ada Ciganlija to the 25th May queue, spanning over seven kilometers along the riverbank. It serves as a delightful route for both walkers and cyclists, providing a picturesque recreational experience.
Controversies and Criticisms
The Belgrade Tower has not been without its controversies. Many locals have criticized the entire Belgrade Waterfront project for its lack of transparency and its impact on the city’s historic skyline. The project, which began in 2014, has faced scrutiny from various groups, including architects, urban planners, and environmentalists.
One of the main concerns raised by critics is the project’s lack of transparency in terms of its financing and decision-making processes. Some critics argue that the project has been driven more by commercial interests than by the needs of the local community, leading to questions about its long-term sustainability and impact on the city’s cultural heritage.
Another point of contention is the project’s impact on Belgrade’s historic skyline. The city is known for its mix of architectural styles, ranging from Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian influences to modernist and brutalist structures from the socialist era. Critics of the Belgrade Waterfront project argue that the new development does not blend harmoniously with the city’s existing architectural fabric, instead imposing a modern and often criticized aesthetic.
Supporters’ Perspective
For many locals, Belgrade Tower represents more than just a new addition to the city’s skyline – it is a symbol of Belgrade’s transformation into a modern European capital. The tower has become a source of pride for many residents, who see it as a sign that Belgrade is moving forward and embracing its future while still honoring its past.
Supporters of the Belgrade Waterfront project argue that it will bring much-needed investment and development to the city, creating jobs and boosting the local economy. They also point to the project’s ambitious plans for public spaces, cultural institutions, and recreational facilities, which they believe will enhance the quality of life for residents of Belgrade.
Conclusion
As the tallest building in Serbia, Belgrade Tower stands as a beacon of modernity in a city rich in history and tradition. Whether you admire it from afar or venture inside to explore its interior, Belgrade Tower is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who encounter it. Despite the criticisms, the skyscraper has undeniably become a popular attraction for both locals and tourists, drawing visitors with its stunning architecture and panoramic views.
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