Zaha Hadid Architects, in collaboration with Bureau Cube Partners, has been selected to redesign Belgrade’s historic Milan Vapa Paper Mill into the Nikola Tesla Museum. This project will celebrate Tesla’s revolutionary contributions to electricity and wireless energy, offering a space where his legacy continues to inspire future generations.
Tesla, known for pioneering alternating current electricity, the Tesla coil, and advancements in wireless energy, remains a key figure in modern technological progress. His work laid the foundation for many developments in energy and communication technologies. This museum will honor his lasting impact on the world.
Built in 1924 as Serbia’s first modern factory, the Milan Vapa Paper Mill became a symbol of industrial growth. After years of use, the mill was abandoned a decade ago. Today, it is a protected cultural landmark, and its transformation into the Nikola Tesla Museum combines the building’s historical value with a modernized design.
The architectural concept for the museum takes inspiration from Tesla’s studies of magnetic fields and wireless energy. Elliptical curves extend from the central factory chimney, symbolizing the interconnectedness of energy forces. These dynamic forms not only create visual interest but also facilitate flow within the museum. Visitors will enter through a circular opening on the western facade, leading into a triple-height atrium with the iconic chimney at its center. This layout ensures unobstructed views across the museum, from the entrance through to the Tesla memorial at the eastern end.
The first floor of the museum will showcase Tesla’s historical artifacts, interactive exhibits, and immersive displays. The Tesla Electronic Transformer Gallery will be a major attraction. It features a 12 million volt transformer that demonstrates Tesla’s daring experiments. Other amenities include a café, a multipurpose hall, and a rooftop restaurant offering stunning views of the Sava River. Zaha Hadid Architects, in collaboration with Bureau Cube Partners, has designed this museum to ensure that innovative displays are central to the visitor experience. The museum will showcase Tesla’s pioneering work in a dynamic, engaging way.
The museum’s impact extends beyond the building with the creation of Nikola Tesla Square. This new public area will feature flowing pathways, gardens, and plazas, all inspired by Tesla’s electromagnetic field theories. The square will connect the museum to the Belgrade Waterfront and the city’s transportation network.
