The minimum air flow in regular ventilation mode now requires six complete air changes per hour, which is a significant increase compared to the previous standard (6 m³/h per square meter of garage). This change requires the installation of larger fans, which increases energy consumption. Experts point out that, along with the increase in the number of electric cars and the reduction of harmful gas emissions, the influence of moisture in garages, which could become a problem, should also be considered.

Smoke control and smoke extraction

The biggest changes relate to smoke removal systems, which move from the concept of “smoke clearance” to “smoke control”. The new requirements in Article 45 require compliance with the document SRPS CEN/TS 12101-11:2022, which is not a standard, but a technical specification with a limited validity period.

The following are the key changes:

• Start of main fans three minutes after sprinkler activation or smoke confirmation.

• The possibility of fan operation in reduced mode before the fire is confirmed.

• Limiting smoke sectors to 2,500 m² for underground and 5,000 m² for above-ground garages, although jet fans, according to the document, do not require smoke sectors.

Experts point to problems with the implementation of this technical report, including non-adjusted work sequences and ambiguities in the design of CFD analyses, which must now be more precise and require more advanced simulation methods.

Problems with harmonizing rules and standards

In the part related to overpressure in garages, the rulebook requires achieving a pressure of 50 Pa ±10%, which is not in accordance with the new standards SRPS EN 12101-6:2022 and SRPS EN 12101-13:2022, which allow more flexible values. This inconsistency opens up space for dilemmas regarding the application of regulations and standards.

Conclusion

Changes in regulations require adaptation of technical solutions, which can significantly increase the costs of system design and installation. Experts warn of ambiguities and potential problems in the application of new regulations, especially in connection with alignment with non-harmonized standards. Further analyzes and consultations with competent institutions are necessary in order to avoid design errors and ensure the safety of users.

The report, based on thermal load simulations and cost analyses, compared four energy systems: district heating with chillers, air-source heat pumps, a hybrid system with district heating backup, and geothermal heat pumps. The geothermal option stood out for its high efficiency and lower energy consumption, making it a perfect fit for a modern concert hall designed to host world-class performances year-round.

Why Geothermal?

• Energy Efficiency: By tapping into stable underground temperatures, geothermal systems deliver unmatched efficiency. Unlike air-source systems, which struggle in Belgrade’s harsh winters, geothermal heat pumps maintain consistent performance.

• Cost Benefits: Although geothermal systems require higher initial investment and an estimated 11-year payback period, their significantly lower operational costs promise substantial savings in the long run.

• Environmental Impact: Geothermal technology eliminates reliance on natural gas, reducing carbon emissions and providing quiet, weather-independent operation.

Future Steps

While the potential for geothermal energy is promising, further site-specific studies are needed to finalize the design. Preliminary research from nearby locations, supported by UNDP studies, confirms groundwater availability at a depth of 10 meters. A specialized team will soon assess the feasibility of geothermal wells and heat exchangers for BCH.

A Sustainable Vision for Belgrade

The Belgrade Concert Hall is more than just a performance space; it’s a statement of modern design and sustainability. By opting for geothermal energy, this new cultural landmark will not only set the stage for unforgettable artistic experiences but also lead by example in the fight against climate change.

The decision underscores a broader vision for Belgrade—where innovation meets sustainability, and new landmarks align with global environmental goals. For BCH, the symphony of sustainability is just beginning.

In traditional construction workflows, fragmented data and communication silos often lead to delays, errors, and cost overruns. The rise of BIM, however, offers a game-changing solution: a single, live model that serves as the authoritative source of design and project information.

This approach enables real-time collaboration among stakeholders, regardless of their location. Architects, engineers, and contractors can simultaneously access and update project details, streamlining processes from inception to completion. For instance, at Integration, we’re moving beyond BIM as a mere 3D modeling tool to fully integrated, dynamic project coordination platforms.

The benefits are measurable: research from Dodge Data & Analytics reports a 25% improvement in labor productivity and a significant reduction in costs when BIM is employed effectively. Additionally, this centralization allows design decisions to align better with budgets and aesthetic goals, enabling optimal outcomes for projects of any scale.

Virtual Reality: Beyond Visualization

While VR has long been recognized for its ability to create immersive visualizations, its potential extends far beyond aesthetics. Coupled with BIM, VR provides a platform for detailed design analysis, enabling stakeholders to “walk through” projects before construction begins.

This immersive approach minimizes the risk of on-site errors by offering a clear, tangible understanding of how components should be installed. On construction sites, VR tools can guide teams by overlaying project design information onto physical spaces, reducing miscommunication and ensuring precision.

As industries adopt VR for building services and technology management, its role in enhancing project execution continues to grow, making it a critical tool for modern construction teams.

Sustainability and the Circular Economy

Sustainability is no longer optional in construction—it’s a necessity. BIM is uniquely positioned to support the circular economy, a model that prioritizes waste reduction, resource efficiency, and material reuse.

Detailed BIM models facilitate prefabrication, allowing for the production of components in controlled environments. This results in cost-effective production, improved quality, and faster on-site assembly. More importantly, BIM enables accurate planning across all construction stages, significantly reducing waste.

Another major advantage is material lifecycle management. BIM models can serve as centralized inventories, detailing materials used in construction and enabling easy disassembly and reuse when a building reaches the end of its life. This approach ensures that new structures are not only built to meet today’s needs but also designed with future adaptability and sustainability in mind.

Post-Construction Benefits: Smarter Facilities Management

Digital design doesn’t stop delivering value once a building is completed. BIM models are invaluable during a structure’s operational phase, providing facility managers and maintenance teams with a comprehensive database of systems, components, and equipment.

This level of detail simplifies building management tasks, from routine maintenance to major system upgrades. At Integration, we go beyond the tender stage by working closely with contractors to develop advanced BIM models that extend into the construction and post-construction phases. This ensures a seamless transition from project delivery to operation, enhancing the long-term value of the asset.

How Digital Design Redefines Construction

The digital transformation of construction offers more than efficiency—it creates a foundation for sustainable, resilient, and collaborative projects. By integrating centralized data platforms, immersive VR experiences, sustainable practices, and post-construction intelligence, the industry is poised to meet the challenges of the future head-on.

Embracing these technologies is not just about keeping pace; it’s about driving innovation that benefits all stakeholders, from designers and contractors to building occupants and the planet.

Closing Thoughts

The construction industry stands at a pivotal moment in its evolution. By adopting tools like BIM and VR, we’re not just enhancing processes but fundamentally redefining how buildings are conceived, constructed, and managed. The opportunities are immense, and those who embrace this digital revolution will lead the way into a more sustainable and efficient future.

• High Efficiency and Consistency – The Earth’s stable temperatures enable GSHPs to deliver consistent performance year-round, regardless of weather.

• Simultaneous Heating and Cooling – They efficiently provide heating and cooling with heat recovery, ideal for buildings with concurrent demands.

• Durability – With underground pipe loops and minimal moving parts, GSHPs can last over 20 years, with ground loops enduring up to 100 years.

• Space and Noise Benefits – GSHPs require no external plant space, preserving outdoor areas and avoiding unsightly enclosures. They also operate silently, making them suitable for noise-sensitive environments.

Challenges of GSHPs

• High Installation Costs – Drilling boreholes or installing ground loops involves significant initial expenses.

• Ground Suitability – Effectiveness depends on geological conditions; rocky or dense soils can limit performance.

• Heat Balancing – Excessive heat extraction without replenishment can reduce efficiency over time, especially in projects with primarily heating demands. Air source heat pumps might perform better in such cases.

• Specialist Maintenance – While routine care is straightforward, monitoring ground loop temperatures and antifreeze levels requires expertise.

Best Applications for GSHPs

• Projects with balanced heating and cooling loads for optimal efficiency.

• Sites with ample outdoor space for drilling, such as gardens or car parks.

• Locations where noise restrictions or external space preservation is a priority.

Conclusion

Ground source heat pumps provide a sustainable solution for projects prioritizing low noise and consistent performance. While installation costs and site-specific constraints exist, their long-term benefits often outweigh these challenges. Selecting GSHPs requires careful consideration of project needs, financial factors, and site conditions. By aligning solutions with project goals, we can contribute to a greener, more efficient future.