A lot (probably too much) has been written about “brutalist” architecture in the former Yugoslavia and other parts of socialist Central-Eastern Europe, and it’s often forgotten that much of the modernist architecture constructed in Croatia in the 1950s-1970s was actually decorative, jazzy and good to look at.

The so-called Vitić Skyscraper (Vitićev neboder; it’s actually not high enough to really qualify as a skyscraper but never mind) is the outstanding example of the non-brutal side of Croatian architecture. Designed by Ivan Vitić and built 1958-1962, this residential block was inspired by the paintings of Piet Mondrian and consists of black surfaces interspersed with sliding panels in bright primary colours. Recently renovated, it has re-established its place as an architectural classic, and attracts a lot of camera-wielding visitors as a result.

The apartment interiors can’t be visited (unless you make friends with one of the residents), although they are famous for their minimalist decor and inlaid storage units. Unsurprisingly, the building has become a popular home for architects, artists and designers.

Practical Info

Ul. Laginjina

Located inbetween Martićeva and Vlaška, it’s a 15-minure walk east of the main square; or a short hop on trams #11 or #12 to the Petrova crkva stop