Early modernism in Zagreb. Novakova street.

Abstract

Architectural modernism appeared in cities of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia during the end of the twenties and beginning of the thirties of the XXth century with different manifestations but within a quite coherent cultural scenario. In those years, most of the Yugoslavian cities were transforming themselves and they were all searching for a new identity, where a new architectural “style” had a substantial importance. The cultural life in these cities was extremely rich and open to external influences, also due to the presence of young architects and academics that had studied abroad and were eager to bring in their own towns their personal experiences. Zagreb was certainly one of the most active cities from an economical, social and cultural point, a city where urban transformations and architectural innovation were reinforcing each other. The unique example of the residential development along Novakova street must be seen as a very early attempt of creating a modern identity, also in relationship to other important European experiences, first with the Weissenhof in Stuttgart.