Ložionica – Center for Creative Industries and Innovation
In the heart of Belgrade lies Ložionica, the first hub of its kind in Serbia and the Southeast European region. Initiated and developed by the Serbia Creates platform, it is a place where new values of the creative sector are born.
What is Ložionica’s role?
We are building a unique platform for creating and sharing knowledge, connecting creative people, organizations, public institutions, and businesses in search of innovative solutions. At the same time, we foster the development of creative industries, dialogue, and collaboration among sectors that rarely work together.
Mission
Ložionica’s mission is to create a model where creativity and economic sustainability go hand in hand, connecting art, science, technology, and business. Our goal is to support and build a strong infrastructure for professionals in the creative industries.
Vision
Ložionica’s vision is to become the key creative ecosystem of the region, erasing boundaries between art, science, technology, and business. We strive to build a self-sustaining and open space that empowers the community, offering freedom for creation, growth, and the exchange of ideas — while setting a new standard for the next generation of public institutions.
Our Program. Our Values.
Knowledge, community, and creation are the core values that shape our mission and form the foundation of our entire program framework.
Community & Networking
Events for networking, collaboration, and activation of the local, regional, and international community. Co-working spaces.
Skill Development & Knowledge Sharing
Conferences, panel discussions, workshops, trainings, mentorship programs, residencies. Incubator program and Fab Lab.
Events, Art & Exhibitions
World-class programs and productions: theater, dance, music, film, visual arts, photography, design, performances…
Sustainability as a Principle
Ložionica is managed by the company “Ložionica” d.o.o., founded by the Republic of Serbia. However, unlike traditional public institutions, Ložionica is a next-generation institution that does not rely on budget funds. Its entire operations are financed through its own revenue — from projects, stakeholder partnerships, and the active involvement of organizations and companies across different sectors.
All of Ložionica’s income is directly reinvested into knowledge, growth, and the future of the creative sector.
A New Era for Ložionica
Once the engine of the Second Industrial Revolution, today Ložionica is becoming the engine of the Fifth. Many details still testify to its past history and purpose — from old railway tracks that now cross the complex as pedestrian paths, to specially designed gabions filled with authentic railway stones, and the signature traffic yellow color that dominates its interior spaces (gallery)...
1925/26
Innovation from the start
The former railway roundhouse was one of the first buildings in Belgrade and Serbia constructed with reinforced concrete — a true innovation at the time. Together with the Main Railway Station, it represented a major technological achievement. Ložionica served as a depot, repair, and service facility for steam locomotives — the engines of the Second Industrial Revolution. This spatial complex stands as a prime example of Belgrade’s industrial heritage, which is why its reconstruction preserves the cultural and historical identity while adding contemporary elements.
2023
Period of Inactivity
After the phasing out of steam locomotives and later the relocation of the Main Railway Station, Ložionica lost its original purpose and remained inactive for many years. Workers, craftsmen, and roundhouse operators left, while the building was left to the ravages of time and decay, facing the real risk of permanent destruction. In 2023, its reconstruction and transformation into a modern creative hub began.
2025
A New Era for Ložionica
The revitalization of the building began in 2022, and by 2025 the works were completed as Ložionica opened its doors. A century-old structure now takes on a new purpose — as a hub of creativity, innovation, and collaboration in modern Belgrade.
Water tower
Within the Ložionica complex stands the Water Tower — once essential for supplying steam locomotives with water, and today a recognizable landmark of Belgrade. This is the third version of the structure. The design of the second version was contributed to by Serbian scientist Milutin Milanković, while the current, third version dates back to the post–World War II period.
During Ložionica’s restoration, the tower was renovated and painted in the original color of the Gazela Bridge — symbolically, since in the 1950s it was slated for demolition to make way for the bridge. Preserved instead, today it begins a new life as an exhibition space for digital art.
A New Role for Heritage
The Belgrade-based architectural studio AKVS architecture won the international urban and architectural competition for the reconstruction and adaptation of Ložionica, launched in 2021 by the Office for IT and eGovernment and the national platform Serbia Creates, in cooperation with the Association of Architects of Serbia. The entire Ložionica complex, spanning 22,000 square meters, has been designed as a functional whole that bridges industrial heritage with contemporary spaces for work, creation, and gathering. It includes:
Ložionica Building
A multifunctional space for events, coworking, exhibitions, workshops, offices, and a gastro segment. It also includes a “black box” hall with top-class acoustics.
Annex Office Building
Space for the Office for IT and eGovernment, startups, GovTech, as well as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity labs.
Water tower
A new exhibition venue for digital and multimedia content, connected to the main building via a footbridge.
Open Space (former turntable)
Around 10,000 m² of open area for events and gatherings, with 30% of the surface covered in greenery.
Underground Garage
Approximately 170 parking spots, with a usage model for both visitors and residents.
FAQ
What is Ložionica?
Ložionica is the first international-standard hub for creative industries and innovation in Serbia and the region, dedicated to supporting creators, teams, and companies. It is a space for collaboration, knowledge exchange, innovation, and the development of creative projects in art, technology, science, and business.
Where is Ložionica Belgrade located?
Ložionica is located at 2 Ideja Street, Belgrade, within a complex that includes the main Ložionica building, the annex, the Water Tower, the underground garage, and the open space of the former turntable — a total area of 22,000 m².
Who can participate in the programs?
Programs at Ložionica are open to individuals, creative teams, startups, companies, and academic institutions interested in developing innovative projects or joining workshops and initiatives.
Can Ložionica Belgrade be rented for events?
Yes, Ložionica is available for events and commercial rentals, including conferences, workshops, exhibitions, and cultural programs. Spaces are adaptable to organizers’ needs with prior booking.
How can I connect with Ložionica’s members or partners?
You can connect with Ložionica’s members and partners by applying for programs, participating in events, workshops, and projects, or directly contacting Ložionica’s administration for networking and business collaboration.