Designing for People, Climate, and Community: FENS Talk Brings Contemporary Public Space Practices to IUS

FENS Talk

The Architecture (ARCH) study program at the International University of Sarajevo (IUS), Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences (FENS), hosted another inspiring FENS Talk titled “Architecture of Public Spaces – Designing for People, Climate, and Community.” The guest speaker was Mr. Frane Dumandžić, mag. ing. arch., architect and partner at NFO Architecture Studio (Zagreb).

Held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, the lecture brought together IUS students, faculty members, and guests interested in contemporary approaches to designing public spaces that are both functional and socially meaningful.

Drawing from his professional portfolio, Mr. Dumandžić presented a selection of projects that demonstrate how public spaces can be shaped to respond to human needs, climate conditions, and the social dynamics of local communities. Through an engaging presentation, he reflected on the development of his architectural practice - from early conceptual explorations to complex urban-scale interventions - highlighting the decision-making processes behind real projects and the lessons learned along the way.

The talk offered students valuable insight into the responsibilities architects carry in creating resilient, climate-responsive public environments, while also providing a practical look into contemporary architectural practice, collaboration, and implementation challenges.

The lecture concluded with a dynamic discussion session, where faculty members and students exchanged views with the speaker and raised questions related to the practical realities of delivering public space projects in different urban contexts.