LocationsRenovation of the Institute of Public Health
August 14, 2025
Where Tradition Meets Energy Efficiency
In a building that holds memories of decades of medical achievements, everyday challenges - leaking windows, outdated air conditioners, and unsafe electrical installations - once slowed down the work of experts and compromised their comfort. Today, after a comprehensive and carefully executed renovation, the Institute of Public Health of Republika Srpska in Banja Luka has been given new life: fresher air in laboratories, more stable indoor temperatures with significant energy savings, and improved electrical safety. This transformation not only enhances the quality of the working environment but also lays solid foundations for the green transition and greater resilience to future challenges.
ince 2009, Dr. Stanka Tomić, Head of the Microbiology Department, has been balancing the pride of working in a building with historic significance against the daily challenges of conducting modern science in outdated facilities.
“We are proud to work in a building with such a rich tradition,” she says, “but its age brought constant problems: lack of adequate space, outdated installations, and a structure resistant to every new measure of energy or functional efficiency.”
Dr. Stanka Tomić, Head of the Department of Microbiology
Maintaining microbiology laboratories required stable conditions, while the old systems consumed extra energy just to keep work parameters within acceptable limits. “Outdated installations meant we had to invest more effort just to maintain laboratory standards,” explains Dr. Tomić.
“Now, thanks to the renovation, it is much easier to achieve proper working conditions – less energy is consumed, and the laboratory can keep pace with modern technological requirements.”
Her team no longer spends time and resources on basic safety and stability. On the contrary, the upgraded infrastructure supports more efficient, future-oriented work.
The appearance of the Institute building before the energy renovation
The renovation works on the building were comprehensive: windows and doors were replaced with modern, well-fitted units; the exterior walls were insulated - requiring removal of damaged plaster down to the brick; extensive sheet metal works were carried out, including new gutters, drains, and window sills; the roof covering and entrance canopy were renewed; parts of the lightning protection system were replaced; and the ventilation network was aesthetically integrated with custom casings that preserve the building’s original appearance. Outdated air conditioners on the façade, which once caused leaks and disrupted the building’s aesthetics, were removed and replaced with a new heat pump system - reducing the number of outdoor units and improving energy efficiency.
The appearance of the building after renovation
Although complete data on energy and cost savings are still being collected, the first changes are already felt in everyday work.
For Marica Đekanović, who has been maintaining the cleanliness and order of the premises for four and a half years, the difference is more than tangible. “The windows used to leak when it rained, and the air conditioners were constantly dripping,” she recalls.
“Now it’s different - easier and better. My favorites are the new windows and air conditioners. They’ve made the work environment much more reliable.”
Her daily tasks no longer involve dealing with constant malfunctions, but instead supporting the smooth functioning of the space.
Marica Đekanović, maintenance worker
Ivana Miljević, a sanitation technician with four years of experience, emphasizes that the renovation has transformed both the working environment and the team’s mindset. “The space is new and clean, which motivates all of us to take better care of it,” she explains.
“Improved ventilation has reduced humidity, unpleasant odors, and the spread of volatile substances, so the environment itself now supports hygiene. That shared sense of ownership makes it easier to build positive relationships - I come to work with a smile, proud to be part of the team that maintains all of this.”
Ivana Miljević, sanitation technician
At the entrance, receptionist Biljana Ostojić greets visitors every morning with a smile. “The users are truly satisfied,” she says.
“Even passers-by often stop to compliment how beautiful the building looks. When I arrive in the morning and sit at my desk, my first thought is: everything is just right.”
Her daily routine is now supported by an environment that reflects restored dignity.
Biljana Ostojić, receptionist
Still, the path to full resilience is not yet complete. Danka Misirača, Occupational Health and Fire Safety Officer, recalls the stifling summer days when the old cooling systems overloaded the damaged electrical network. “We had to shorten working hours because the old installation simply couldn’t withstand the constant load,” she remembers.
“I spent entire days monitoring the electricity, afraid of a breakdown. Today it’s much better, but still not perfect. The electrical system is worn out and needs to be replaced-or, ideally, shifted to renewable sources as soon as possible.”
Danka looks not only at what has been achieved so far, but also toward the next steps needed to ensure long-term stability and energy sustainability in the face of climate challenges.
Danka Misirača, Occupational Health and Fire Safety Officer
This renovation has done more than just technically upgrade the building; it has lifted the morale and improved the working conditions of the people who work and spend time in it. What once hindered efficiency and created daily stress has now become a springboard for better scientific research, hygiene, safety, and pride. The Institute is transforming its historical legacy from a limitation into a foundation for resilient and sustainable public health.
Based on the results so far, significant savings in energy consumption and costs are expected, confirming the renovation’s contribution to advancing energy efficiency. At the same time, the management and staff are already considering new green investments: replacing the worn-out electrical system and piloting the installation of solar panels on the roof, which will further strengthen the energy transition and ensure the durability of achieved results.
This story is part of a broader UNDP initiative in Bosnia and Herzegovina to support the green transition in public institutions through infrastructure modernization, improved working conditions, and aligning cultural heritage with climate efficiency.
The renovation works of the Institute of Public Health of Republika Srpska were carried out under the project “Scaling-up Investment in Low-Carbon Public Buildings in Bosnia and Herzegovina”, implemented by UNDP BiH with financial support from the Green Climate Fund (GCF), in cooperation with the Ministry of Spatial Planning, Construction, and Ecology of Republika Srpska.
