Our partner and architect Silvije Novak participated in the first edition of the Adriatic Tourism Talks conference, held on April 10, 2025, at the Aminess Khalani Hotel in Makarska. The conference brought together numerous tourism stakeholders from Croatia and the region, focusing on regenerative tourism practices and the role of architecture in shaping the identity of destinations.
Silvije took part in the panel titled "The Aesthetics of Space as a Destination's Identity – How Architecture and Visual Appeal Shape Tourist Attractiveness," alongside Marija Martinović, Director of Sales and Marketing at Maestral Resort & Casino in Budva, and Petar Banda, Head of Technical Planning and Maintenance for the City of Opatija. The panel was moderated by Jasna Damjanović.
During the discussion, the panelists emphasized the importance of architecture in creating a recognizable identity for destinations, highlighting how thoughtful spatial concepts can contribute to the sustainable development of tourism and the quality of life for the local community. They noted that architectural solutions should not only enrich spaces aesthetically but also functionally respond to the needs of both residents and visitors. Tourism, they concluded, should not be merely a product for visitors, but a long-term commitment to the space, the community, and the shared future we build together.
The conference gathered professionals from various fields and enabled a constructive exchange of knowledge and ideas about the future of tourism in the Adriatic region. The city of Makarska stood out as an example of a destination that promotes sustainable and inclusive development models.
