Savamala, a district of Belgrade that is rich in tradition but has been neglected since the nineteen-fifties, has recently been experiencing a rapid transformation. Owing to its location near the center, on the banks of the Sava, it has become attractive not only for those involved in the Belgrade creative industries and gastronomy, but also for global investors, as shown by the recently published, controversial project Belgrade Waterfront. The studies by Bureau Savamala in 2013 and 2014 show the changes within Savamala both from a material and socio- economic perspective and from the point of view of its inhabitants and visitors. Based on the results, the possibilities and scope of a gradual and gentle upgrade are discussed. Local architects and creative artists also present their projects that are designed-in some cases together with the inhabitants-to contribute to the renewal of Savamala even without gentrification. These insights into the transformation of Savamala’s neighborhoods are complemented by contributions about the historic development and specific urban development situation of Belgrade.