Theoretical and Practical Aspects of Critical Regionalism in the Architectural Oeuvre of Radosav Zeković

Authors

  • Ema Alihodžić Jašarović Faculty of Architecture, University of Montenegro
  • Sanja Paunović Žarić Faculty of Architecture, University of Montenegro
  • Nikola Bajović Faculty of Architecture, University of Montenegro
  • Sanja Sekulović Faculty of Architecture, University of Montenegro

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31522/p.34.1(71).3

Keywords:

Radosav Zeković, critical regionalism, modernism, architectural heritage, Yugoslav architecture

Abstract

Radosav Zeković’s (1930-2010) architectural oeuvre constitutes a highly significant corpus within Montenegro’s modernist legacy. This paper examines the approach through which Zeković, operating amid radical socio-political transformations, transposed the symbolic values of context while striving to articulate spatial and historical continuity. His architectural production is notably diverse, revealing a distinct approach to contextual architectural reasoning that positions him among the most notable proponents of critical regionalism in the region. Through his realized works, Zeković introduced a distinctive, personalized form of modern architecture into Montenegrin cities, emphasizing the creation of an authentic, locally grounded contemporary urban identity. In some of his works, principles of his mentor’s architectural approaches can be observed, as shall be analyzed in the following sections. The aim is to present the architectural oeuvre of Radosav Zeković and emphasize the importance of preserving his buildings as part of the cultural and architectural heritage, especially at a time when Montenegrin cities are exposed to globalization processes that frequently result in the transformation and falsification of identity. In this regard, critical regionalism may hold a crucial role in shaping contemporary architectural practice.

Author Biographies

  • Ema Alihodžić Jašarović, Faculty of Architecture, University of Montenegro

    Ema Alihodžić Jašarović is an Architect, Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Architecture, University of Montenegro. Her particular interest belongs to the questioning of the role of architectural discourse in the construction of socio-spatial and visual identity of the city. She has recived several awards at international architectural exhibitions and competitions, and she was a part of the Montenegrin team at the XII Biennale of Architecture in Venice (2010, 2023).

  • Sanja Paunović Žarić, Faculty of Architecture, University of Montenegro

    Sanja Paunović Žarić is an architect, energy-efficiency auditor, and Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Architecture, University of Montenegro. She completed her master’s and PhD studies in bioclimatic and energy-efficient architecture. She has received several scholarships, awards, and study visits, including TU/e. She also works independently in architectural and interior design, with award-winning and realized projects.

  • Nikola Bajović, Faculty of Architecture, University of Montenegro

    Nikola Bajović is an Architect and Teaching Assistant at the Faculty of Architecture, University of Montenegro, where he graduated in 2018. He completed his Master’s studies and began his PhD at the University of Novi Sad, focusing on digital technologies in architecture. He has worked as a site engineer in Podgorica and, since 2023, has been involved in teaching architectural technologies.

  • Sanja Sekulović, Faculty of Architecture, University of Montenegro

    Sanja Sekulović is an Architect and Teaching Assistant at the Faculty of Architecture, University of Montenegro. She is pursuing a PhD at the University of Novi Sad, focusing on poverty and models of inclusive housing. Her academic and professional work has been recognized through awards and licenses in teaching and architectural design.

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Published

2026-06-30

Issue

Vol. 34 No. 1(71) (2026)

Section

Original Scientific Paper

License

Copyright (c) 2026 Ema Alihodžić Jašarović, Sanja Paunović Žarić, Nikola Bajović, Sanja Sekulović

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How to Cite

“Theoretical and Practical Aspects of Critical Regionalism in the Architectural Oeuvre of Radosav Zeković” (2026) Prostor, 34(1(71). doi:10.31522/p.34.1(71).3.

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