The UBT Institute for Urban Studies and Spatial Planning is a multidisciplinary research and application center dedicated to leading and inspiring the transformation of urban planning research, education, and practice in Kosovo. Positioned at the crossroads of rapid socio-economic, institutional, and infrastructural transition, the Institute serves as a visionary force shaping the urban future of Kosovo and beyond.
Our mission is rooted in a bold ambition: to rethink, redesign, and regenerate the way cities are understood, planned, and lived in. Through a holistic approach that bridges theory and practice, we aim to generate strategic knowledge, deliver sustainable solutions, and foster inclusive, livable, and future-proof urban environments.
The Institute is structured around three core pillars:
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Research – Conducting advanced research, spatial analysis, urban assessments, indexes, and evidence-based studies to address emerging urban challenges.
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Teaching – Delivering high-level academic programs, including our Master’s Program in Urban Planning and Development, aimed at educating the next generation of transformative urban thinkers.
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Doing/Practicing – Applying knowledge in real-world contexts by designing spatial and urban development plans, offering consultancy and feasibility studies, and initiating actions on integrated urban planning, smart growth, and resilient cities.
To fulfill its mission, the Institute operates five specialized departments:
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Planning and Design Lab – Focused on spatial strategies, urban design, and master planning, this lab provides spatial visions and frameworks for urban development.
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Sustainable Transportation Policy Lab – Researches and promotes sustainable mobility solutions, urban accessibility, and innovative transportation systems.
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The City – History Lab – Explores the historical layers of urban development, cultural heritage, and the evolution of urban forms and identities.
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GeoSpatial Data Lab – Uses GIS, spatial data analysis, and mapping technologies to support evidence-based planning and decision-making.
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Integrated Water Management Lab – Engages with water-sensitive urban design, water resources governance, and integration of water management into planning processes.
In addition, the Institute actively operates through six thematic platforms that extend our outreach and impact:
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Smart Cities – Investigating digital transformation and innovation in urban systems.
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Literature on Planning – Curating and translating key theoretical and contemporary planning texts.
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UBT Urban Talks – Hosting public lectures, dialogues, and debates on pressing urban issues.
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Mega Projects in Kosovo – Documenting and analyzing large-scale urban interventions.
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Modernism in Kosovo – Researching the legacy and relevance of modernist planning and architecture.
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Kosovo Urban Image Database – A growing visual archive capturing the transformation of Kosovo’s urban landscapes.
As a center of critical inquiry and action, we unite diverse expertise—from urban planners, architects, engineers, and environmentalists to economists, sociologists, and communication experts—to confront the complexity of urban challenges with innovative and locally grounded solutions.
Our Strategic Goals:
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To advance scientific and technological knowledge in urbanism.
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To guide policy and urban development through cutting-edge research and strategic planning.
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To foster data-driven decision-making and shape more sustainable, equitable, and intelligent urban futures.
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To serve as a hub for collaboration among academia, public institutions, and private stakeholders.
By combining rigorous academic inquiry with applied expertise, the UBT Institute for Urban Studies and Spatial Planning stands as a leading voice in reimagining the urban condition in transitional societies—building not only better cities but a better urban culture.