Reconstruction and Urban Design of the Theater Square in Novi Sad by DBA

The Theater Square, located near the main city square of Novi Sad, is a key public space that has recently undergone significant reconstruction. This revitalization is part of a larger effort aimed at transforming a section of the city center, which covers an area of 6.82 hectares. The project encompasses not only the square itself, but also Uspenska Street, home to major bus stops and the Church of the Assumption, as well as a small piazza near the secondary entrance to the Serbian National Theater. The transformation of this space marks an important milestone in the city’s urban development, as it connects historical memory with modern functionality.

The Theater Square was originally created following the construction of the Serbian National Theater in 1981. To make way for the new theater, significant alterations were made to the old urban fabric, including the demolition of one side of the Little Jewish Street. Although the theater is undoubtedly one of Novi Sad’s most prominent cultural landmarks, the demolition of the old street caused a great deal of controversy. For many citizens, this remains a symbol of the city’s troubled history of urban planning. Consequently, preserving the memory of the area’s previous layout has been a crucial aspect of the current reconstruction project. For years, the square had fallen into disrepair. The area suffered from outdated infrastructure, neglected green spaces, cracks in the sidewalks, and dilapidated bus stops.

The design process for the square followed the results of the 2018 Urban Architectural Competition. Several elements from the three winning designs were integrated into the final concept to ensure a cohesive, innovative approach. The project includes a complete overhaul of the square’s infrastructure—paving, public lighting, landscaping, and urban furniture. A key feature is the “memorial lane,” a Corten steel strip embedded in the paving, marking the location of demolished facades along Little Jewish Street. This visual marker preserves the area’s historic urban fabric. The redesigned space also encourages social interaction and movement, with continuous benches providing ample seating throughout the square.
The redesign of Uspenska Street upgraded the outdated bus stops, improving their connection to the square’s pedestrian flow and adding extra seating for waiting passengers. At the intersection of Theater Square and Uspenska Street, a small urban micro-space with water and greenery was created to offer a calming atmosphere. Green spaces were reorganized with new trees while preserving existing greenery, enhancing both aesthetics and sustainability.

With a total area of 8,110 m², the redesigned Theater Square is now a dynamic and multifunctional public space. The primary focus of the redesign was to improve the quality of public spaces and create an atmosphere that encourages socializing and community engagement. The continuous benches, made of durable materials, are designed with variable ergonomics, allowing for different seating positions, from sitting to half-lying. This feature has proven especially popular among the younger population, who appreciate the flexibility of the seating.
In terms of infrastructure, the square now boasts high-quality granite paving in three subtly varied shades, adding depth and texture to the space. The lighting design has been carefully crafted to create an intimate atmosphere, making the square an inviting place to visit both day and night. Functional elements, such as public drinking fountains, bicycle racks, and waste bins, have been integrated seamlessly into the design, ensuring that the square remains both practical and attractive.

In addition to pedestrian and bicycle improvements, the project also included the renovation of the existing bus stops. New canopies and seating areas have been designed to improve the comfort and accessibility of these transportation hubs. The bus stops are now more visible and connected to the surrounding pedestrian areas, providing passengers with a more pleasant and efficient experience.

The centerpiece of Theater Square is the information pillar at the end of the memorial lane, which serves as a gathering space, complemented by a fountain and seating areas. The fountain also acts as a sound barrier against traffic.
Cycling infrastructure was a key focus of the project. Novi Sad is a city that values cycling, and the addition of dedicated bike lanes and expanded parking has made it easier for cyclists to navigate the area. The two-way bike path on Uspenska Street features lighting and distinctive markings to enhance safety.
The memorial lane, part of the European Capital of Culture initiative, honors Novi Sad’s cultural heritage and historical transformation.
Overall, the reconstruction of Theater Square has revitalized it into a lively, accessible public space that blends historical preservation with modern design, making it a vibrant destination for both locals and visitors.