The 31st Conference of the International Seminar on Urban Form

Where: Mackenzie Presbyterian University, São Paulo, Brazil. When: 16 - 20 Sep 2024.

Prompting Urban Morphology: Testing the Application of Artificial Intelligence in Decoding Urban Patterns of Spa Settlements

The article addresses the notion of emerging artificial intelligence-based practices and tools for research of urban form and decoding of urban patterns. The main objective of the research is to investigate the application of artificial intelligence in searching for health promoting urban patterns (HPUP) within the observatory framework of spa settlements in Serbia through questioning: (1) what are the main morphological features of HPUP, and (2) what are the ways of visualizing them? To address research questions, the research engages generative artificial intelligence program and service Midjourney which generates images from natural language descriptions (prompts) following three steps: (1) prompts definition – structuring the criteria matrix for HPUP definition, (2) images generation – variation and modification of generated images, and (3) evaluation – critical analysis of generated images through reflecting on initially defined prompts. The main findings of the research are two-fold: (1) criteria matrix for HPUP definition and urban patterns prompting, and (2) classified and visualized HPUP for spa settlements. This research is implemented in a framework of scientific project SPATTERN (’’Future Heritage of Spa Settlements Digital Platform for Advancing Knowledge and Innovation in Urban Morphology Approach for Environmentally-Sensitive Development in Serbia’’) funded by Science Fund of the Republic of Serbia, and tends to enable both identification and classification of locally specific HPUP (elements and relations) important for enhancing environmental sensitivity at all spatial levels (from landscapes to details) within spa settlements in Serbia, and development of methodological approaches for processing and visualizing these urban patterns towards affirmation of cultures of healthy living.

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How to cite: In print.

The 12th International Multimedia Event ON ARCHITECTURE

Where: Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Gallery of Science and Technology, Belgrade, Serbia. When: 5–6 December 2024.

A Dictionary-Driven Review of Digital Methods and Tools for Urban Patterns Decoding: SPATTERN Perspectives

The study explores the emerging intersection of urban morphology and digital technologies, focusing on the methods and tools employed to analyze and interpret urban patterns. With rapid urbanization and the resultant complex urban forms, understanding these patterns is crucial for sustainable city planning and design. This contribution presents the findings from the initial deliverable of the SPATTERN project which aims to advance environmentally sensitive urban development of spa settlements in Serbia through the affirmation of twin transition. First SPATTERN deliverable provides a comprehensive review of existing methodological approaches by synthesizing insights from an extensive literature review and content analysis, alongside showcasing relevant tools and methods. The research is performed through systematic literature review combined with the visualization of bibliometric networks and dictionary design and development through 4-cycle research protocol: (1) data search and selection, (2) data clustering and co-occurrence, (3) dictionary development, and (4) factsheets analysis. The review encompasses an extensive analysis of selected terms (keywords) highlighting how digital tools facilitate the collection, visualization, and analysis of urban data. Moreover, the review addresses the challenges and limitations associated with these methods, such as data quality, integration issues, and the need for interdisciplinary collaboration. This dictionary not only standardizes the terminology but also provides a conceptual map for researchers and practitioners navigating the complex nature of urban pattern analysis. By bridging the gap between traditional approaches for urban analysis and cutting-edge digital approaches, the findings advocate for a more informed and systematic use of digital tools and methods in urban morphology, thus promoting more resilient and adaptable urban environments.

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How to cite: Milovanović, A., Pešić, M., Šošević, U., Cvetković, N., Janković, S. (2024). In: Božović, R. (Ed). ON Archtecture - Shaping the City through Architecture Proceedings. STRAND: Sustainable Urban Society Associaton, Belgrade. pp. 149-157. ISBN 978-86-89111-38-5

The 19th International Symposium SymOrg

Where: Zlatibor, Serbia. When: 12–15 June 2024.

Modern Tools for Digital Visualization of Built Environments

This paper investigates the role of digital visualization tools in improving the design and construction processes within the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry. It examines a spectrum of advanced technologies such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), Computer-Aided Design (CAD), 3D Modeling and Geographic Information Systems (GIS), along with immersive technologies like Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/AR). These tools can be used separately or jointly in order to provide detailed visual representations and interactive simulations of built environments. Such representations and simulations can then support stakeholders with information needed for improved decision making and project efficiency. Having in mind different use cases of tools for digital visualization, the paper presents various technologies and specific tools used in urban planning, architecture design and development of built environments. The aim is to emphasize the impact of these digital tools in visualizing and shaping future built environments, at the same time encouraging their wider adoption in the industry.

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How to cite: Šošević, U., Cvetković, N., Simić D. (2024). Modern Tools for Digital Visualization of Built Environments. In: M. Kostić Stanković, I. Mijatović, J. Krivokapić (Eds)., Unlocking the hidden potentials of organization through merging of humans and digitals: symposium proceedings / XIX International symposium SymOrg 2024, Zlatibor, June 12-15, 2024 (hybrid). Belgrade : University, Faculty of Organizational Sciences. (p. 104-110)

The 3rd Scientific Conference on Urban Security and Urban Development

Where: University of Belgrade - Faculty of Architecture, Belgrade, Serbia. When: 1 July 2024.

Conceptual Framework for Mapping of Urban Patterns in Spa Settlements in Serbia: SPATTERN Project

Spa settlements in Serbia, known for their natural healing springs and rich cultural heritage, represent unique urban structures that require special attention during planning process and urban development. This contribution presents a conceptual framework for mapping urban patterns in these specific environments, using modern technologies and digital methods and it introduces context of the scientific project SPATTERN (Future Heritage of Spa Settlements: Digital Platform for Advancing Knowledge and Innovation in Urban Morphology Approach for Environmentally Sensitive Development in Serbia) which is realized in the period from 2023-2026 within the PRISM program of the Science Fund of the Republic of Serbia. The overarching objective of the study is to identify the key factors that influence the urban development of spa settlements (12 role models and 26 replicators of spa settlements) through decoding and mapping of urban patterns, understanding of geographic location, historical development, socio economic conditions, and environmental factors. The proposed framework integrates multi-layered data, including the planning and strategic framework, archival material, previous research, and field research records to create a comprehensive digital database. This database will enable a detailed analysis of current urban patterns and the identification of potential development directions, i.e. anticipation of development. The project aims to illuminate the operational capacity of digital mapping to identify and visualize complex urban patterns, facilitating informed decision-making in the planning process. Also, the proposed framework could serve as a tool for monitoring changes in urban space, enabling a timely reaction to possible negative trends, as well as the protection of the environment and heritage. The proposed conceptual framework could also serve as a model for similar studies in other regions, contributing to sustainable urban development and improving the quality of life in these specific environments.

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How to cite: Janković, S., Pešić, M., Milovanović, A., Cvetković, N., Šošević, U. (2024). Conceptual Framework for Mapping of Urban Patterns in Spa Settlements in Serbia: SPATTERN Project. In: Marić, J., Marković, J. (Eds). Third Scientific Conference Urban Security and Urban Development - Book of Abstracts. University of Belgrade - Faculty of Architecture and Faculty of Security. pp. 50-51. ISBN 978-86-80144-65-8

The 28th International Conference Serbian Language, Literature, Arts

Where: University of Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia. When: 25-26 Oct 2024.

Research Perspectives of Spa Settlements - Urban Patterns and Heritage

This paper provides an insight into the research perspectives of spa settlements as specific urban entities in which natural resources, the built environment, health and tourism activities are intertwined. The goal of this research is to identify, through a systematic literature review, key aspects of the analysis and understanding of urban patterns of spa settlements in order to contribute to their sustainable development and heritage preservation. The research includes three phases: (1) data collection and definition of the initial sample of literature (by searching the Scopus database), (2) analysis of the content of the identified sample and creation of thematic clusters (using VOSviewer software) and (3) definition of urban patterns of spa settlements in relation to scale and urban growth. Research results indicate that these patterns are shaped by historical, cultural, ecological and economic factors that together contribute to the unique character of spa settlements, enabling a balance between heritage preservation and contemporary needs for a functional and sustainable urban space.

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How to cite: Pešic, M., Milovanovic, A (2024). Perspektive istraživanja banjskih naselja – urbani obrasci i nasleđe / Research perspectives of spa settlements - urban patterns and heritage, In B. Mandić, J.Atanasijević (Eds.). Knjiga III – Umetnost, dizajn i arhitektura, XVIII međunarodni naučni skup Srpski jezik, književnost, umetnost, Univerzitet u Kragujevcu – Filološko-umetnički fakultet, 25-26. oktobar 2024. godine. pp. 215-229 

2025 EAAE Annual Conference

Where: The Barcelona School of Architecture (ETSAB), Barcelona, Spain.
When: 27-30 Aug 2025.

Learning from the Existing: Spa Settlements as a Pedagogical Framework for Environmentally Sensitive Spatial Futures

This paper promotes a value shift in architectural education – from tabula rasa design toward reimagining inherited spaces as resources for future transformation. Spa settlements are framed as living pedagogical contexts for anti-extractive, regenerative approaches to the built environment. The study is situated within the SPATTERN project, which advocates an educational shift placing existing spa settlements at the core of integrating spatial history, environmental systems, and socio-cultural dynamics. The paper reflects on five studio-based curricula at the University of Belgrade, Faculty of Architecture, engaging spa settlements – often in fragile ecosystems – as bases for developing no-demolish pedagogies. These challenge extractive logics and promote care-based spatial futures. The curricula range from undergraduate studios on adaptive transformation of urban heritage through critical mapping and scenario design (1) to master-level studios exploring spa heritage reprogramming (2), hybrid naturalities, and multisensory well-being. Students were encouraged to work with, not against, inherited spatial fabrics – treating heritage as dynamic and shaped by environmental, social, and experiential forces. Through methods like site diagnostics, speculative programming, behavioral mapping, and environmental storytelling, these frameworks redefine the value of the already-built and propose new typologies rooted in care, circularity, and climate sensitivity. Spa settlements, with layered materiality, health infrastructure, and entwined histories of landscape and architecture, offer fertile ground for pedagogical innovation. These studios promote a future-facing view of heritage aligned with education grounded in place, history, and speculative imagination.

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How to cite: Milovanović, A., Pešić, M., Ristić Trajković, J., Milojević, M., Krstić, V., Nikezić, A., & Đokić, V. (2025). Learning from the Existing: Spa Settlements as a Pedagogical Framework for Environmentally Sensitive Spatial Futures. EAAE Annual Conference Proceedings, 1(1). https://doi.org/10.51588/eaaeacp.295 

2025 EAAE Annual Conference

Where: 5th ISA Forum of Sociology: Knowing Justice in the Anthropocene, Rabat, Morocco.
When: 6-11 July 2025.

(Not) Gonna Dig”: Mapping Controversies in the Anthropocene Era of Lithium Extraction in Serbia

Since its revitalization in 2023, Rio Tinto’s (a British-Australian multinational company) plan to open a lithium mine in Serbia’s Jadar region has sparked extensive public debate. The project’s status, implementation, and justifications by authorities and the corporation have triggered conflicting reactions, ranging from concerns over the energy and economic colonization of Serbia to fears of environmental damage. These controversies arise within the context of radical uncertainty characteristic of the Anthropocene, where unpredictable energy transitions and metabolic interdependencies shape new geosocial conflicts, particularly around extractive practices. Additionally, these debates, situated at the intersection of politics and science, unfold through digital platforms, amplifying public engagement. This paper draws on Latour’s discussions of Gaia and the politicization of science, alongside digital sociology’s focus on the relationship between technology and knowledge. It employs controversy mapping as a digital method to untangle the complex web of events, protests, documents, and research surrounding the lithium mine debate, focusing on developments since the summer of 2023 and using a large digital dataset. The mapping process follows several steps: first, it identifies key statements and constructs a “tree of disagreement” about the project (what); next, it links these statements to their respective actors (who); then, it visualizes networks of alliances and oppositions between actors (how). The broader goal is to situate these networks within the larger context of meta-controversies related to the Anthropocene, particularly resource sovereignty (where), and to trace the evolution of these debates over time, highlighting when certain arguments become dominant and when the debate intensifies (when).

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How to cite: Janković, S., & Adam, D. (2025, July 8). (Not) Gonna Dig: Mapping controversies in the Anthropocene era of lithium extraction in Serbia [Conference presentation]. 5th ISA Forum of Sociology: Knowing Justice in the Anthropocene, Rabat, Morocco. https://isaconf.confex.com/isaconf/forum2025/meetingapp.cgi/Paper/158028 

XIII International Scientific and Professional Conference – Green City and Architectural Heritage

Where: Zavod za zaštitu spomenika kulture grada Beograda, Belgrade, Serbia.
When: 10 Oct 2025.

Spa Parks as Promoters of an Environmentally Responsible and Technologically Empowered Approach to the Protection of Cultural Heritage

In the spirit of an ecologically responsible and technologically empowered approach to the development of the city, and of society as a whole, imbued with the concepts of resistance, reuse, remediation and other forms of reparation and strengthening of the urban fabric, it is necessary to rethink our values of – and approaches to – heritage protection. Instead of viewing heritage assets as monuments of the past and mere objects of beauty, they can become active participants, cyborgs of the ecological recovery of the cultural landscape. In envisioning such a future, spa settlements and, in particular, spa parks, as unique traces of architectural heritage carved into the essence of the naturalness of the spa environment, could become a resource within and promoter of the sustainable management of natural and cultural heritage. Departing from protection protocols based on materialistic values, this paper presents a case study derived from a Master’s thesis and project undertaken at the University of Belgrade’s Faculty of Architecture, which proposes an approach where, instead of balancing between built and natural values of the place, a unique systemic approach – one that is both eco-responsive and technologically adaptable – is adopted, to promote the sustainable inclusion of protected cultural landscapes in the contemporary development of the city.

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How to cite: Nikezić, A., Slađana, L., & Jovana, L. (2025). Spa Parks as Promoters of an Environmentally Responsible and Technologically Empowered Approach to the Protection of Cultural Heritage, In R. Mrlješ (Ed.). Proceedings: XIII International Scientific and Professional Conference – Green City and Architectural Heritage. pp. 252-267