Technical Details
- TypologyCommercial, Mixed-Use, Public Space
- StatusCompleted
- LocationŠpansko, Zagreb, Croatia
- Year2017–2021
- Size75,000 m²
- ScopeArchitecture, Interior Design, Urban Planning
Concept
Z Centar was conceived as a hybrid urban structure that combines retail with civic public space. Located in the rapidly expanding neighbourhood of Špansko‑Malešnica, the project addresses the lack of communal gathering spaces within the surrounding residential district.
Rather than creating a typical inward-oriented shopping mall, the architectural concept organizes two building volumes around a central square. This space functions as a contemporary “urban living room” for the neighbourhood, encouraging everyday social interaction alongside commercial activity.
Purpose
The complex integrates retail, leisure, and recreational functions into a continuous spatial system. Commercial areas are complemented by spaces designed for community use, events, and everyday public life.
A multifunctional central plateau accommodates seasonal and cultural activities such as ice skating, concerts, and public gatherings. Recreational facilities are further expanded vertically through the activation of the roof of the lower building volume, which hosts leisure amenities including a rooftop mini-golf course.
Materials
The project was developed within a strictly defined budget, encouraging a design strategy focused on efficiency and intelligent material use. The façade achieves its visual identity through the application of simple modular elements arranged in alternating directions, producing a subtle three-dimensional effect while using economical components.
A custom paving system developed in collaboration with Beton Lučko contributes to the coherence and durability of the external public spaces.
Public Space
At the heart of the complex is a protected public square designed for year-round use. The enclosed space incorporates a children’s playground and a flexible event platform, reinforcing the centre’s role as a community gathering point.
The square is heated using waste heat from the building’s ventilation systems, creating a comfortable microclimate during colder months and enabling continuous activity throughout the year.
Sustainability
Environmental strategies are integrated through energy-efficient building systems and the reuse of waste heat to support outdoor comfort in the central square. The project has achieved BREEAM Excellent certification, reflecting its commitment to sustainable construction and operational performance.
Z Centre shopping center strongly reflects the style of the architectural studio that created it. What is immediately visible in some other architects - Zaha Hadid, Aedas or MK27, and what makes them different from the others, what represents their "signature", is also visible in Pulsar architecture.
The strength of Z Centre lies in the design which is very lively and dramatic, both in its interior and exterior, which gives it dynamism in design and which, consequently, creates great interest among people. Despite everything that is happening and swirling around the global business situation, people are always looking for things that are fresh, new and offer hope, the president of IPA points out.
