Architecture in Uzice from 1918 to 1941 - from architecture of historic styles towards modern

Modern architecture in southwest Serbia, in the mid and second half of 20th century, played a significant role in the reforming society. Thanks to its conception it has enabled local communities to overcome major differences in industry, manufacturing, culture, private life development, by not relying on local traditions and standards, by introducing universal canons it allowed flow of knowledge. Local communities at the time had a number of problems caused by industrial and educational lagging behind: lack of building materials was a consequence of poorly developed traffic network and construction industry, lack of vocational schools limited worker skill at construction site etc. All of the above directed the construction industry not to develop but to rely on local knowledge sources, local customs, and tradition. At that moment Modern architecture appeared with simple and condensed forms, modest demands on the industry and builders and with acceptance of local way of life. It was gradually introduced in everyday life so after 1945 it became the general standard in the society. This paper is based on available archive material, written material, and documents encountered in the field work. Implications of the study are expected in the area of urban planning of cities, economy, and culture.