Project: Reconstruction and Adaptation of VEMA
Location: Visoko, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Program: Vema Shopping Center and Hotel
Year: 2023
Status: Under Construction
Client: Private
Size: L 14,000 m²

The former department store, originally built in 1982, was once one of the city’s landmarks. However, due to the war and a devastating fire in 1996, the building suffered severe damage. After a long period of neglect, the investor “Suša Commerce” purchased the property in 2015 and initiated its reconstruction a year later.

The Vema department store was once the central hub of commerce and social life in Visoko. Its construction marked a turning point in the city’s development, but the war destruction and subsequent fire led to its complete devastation.

The reconstruction of the building, which began in 2016, is based on preserving the original spatial concept while modernizing and expanding its functions. The goal of the project is to create a multifunctional complex that meets the contemporary needs of both the residents and visitors of Visoko.

The new concept of the “Vema” complex is founded on hybrid functionality, ensuring a wide variety of programs for different user groups. The complex includes:

• A shopping center offering a broad selection of retail and hospitality venues,
• A hotel and restaurant as part of the city’s tourism offer,
• A spa center with a swimming pool and fitness zone for relaxation and recreation,
• An underground parking garage to improve the city’s traffic infrastructure,
• A public square designed as an open gathering place for social events,
• An indoor climbing wall dedicated to sports enthusiasts,
• An astronomical observatory contributing to educational and scientific activities.