Faculty of Architecture, Engineering and Design - Thesis collection book

[PROJECTING ALBANIA] Ideas generated from research and thesis works 2011-2014 autor: POLIS UNIVERSITY copyright: POLIS UNIVERSITY printed by: layout & design: Dea Buza english edition: Ardit Lila & Kleitia Vaso support: Xhorxho Kita; Rigers Murati; Madalena Canaj; Efijeni Kokedhima; Shega Erebara; Viola Deti; Jona Osmanaj POLIS UNIVERSITY contact: Rr. Bylis 12, Autostrada Tiranë-Durrës, Km 5, Kashar Kodi Postar 1051, Kutia Postare 2995 Tiranë, Albania Tel:+355.(0)4.2407420 / +355.(0)4.2407421 Fax:+355. (0)4.2407422 Mob:+355 (0) 69 40 88 111 Email:contact@universitetipolis.edu.al Website:www.universitetipolis.edu.al

ACKNOWLEGMENT

POLIS University is a private university founded in 2006 as a spinoff entity of Co-PLAN / Institute for Habitat Development, a non for profit organization established since 1995. POLIS represents an experimental, avant-garde, and progressive university with main focus on raising human capacities in fields of architecture, urban planning, art design, environmental studies, energy efficiency and civil engineering. It was in 2011 that the first generation of POLIS students graduated, and most of the graduates were soon after employed at public and private administration or self-employed in their own private studios.

The publication presented is a modest summary of the ideas coming from Research Thesis Works of the graduates of Bachelor Programs (3-year programs, full-time, 180 ECTS); Professional Masters Programs (2 year-programs, part-time, 90 ECTS), Master of Science Programs (2 year-programs, full time, 120 ECTS) and Integrated Master of Science Programs (5 year-programs, full-time, 300 ECTS).

On the occasion of this publication POLIS University would like to acknowledge the great role of the academic staff and tutors, the hard and excellent work of students, and all passion and commitment of their families and support staff. We have joined efforts and are doing our best to build a better country and fairer society and to do this we have chosen the way of investing in human capital because we strongly believe that it is through this investment that the progress and development of this country will come.

U_POLIS Dr. Prof. Besnik Aliaj POLIS University Rector Doc. Sotir Dhamo POLIS University Administrator Dear friends of POLIS,

In these few lines, we would like to share

er became an institution of training and

cians but needs professional expertise. In

ademic circles and associations of higher

with you some values, ideas, and efforts

a promoter of good governance, author

the Albanian context, in which scientific

education in Europe. This is also reflected

that led us to the establishment of POLIS

of many projects thanks to the assistance

research with practical value has so far

in the recently granted “Research Uni-

and its further consolidation as an institu-

of international and local funding. In this

been discontinued and does not corre-

versity’ status and the certification of the

tion of education and alternative intellec-

sense, as an institution, POLIS is a reflec-

spond to the international standards, for

programmatic and institutional accredi-

tual ideas. Together with other co-found-

tion of how we have tried to involve,

POLIS and the generation of researchers

tation.

er colleagues of POLIS, members of the

work, and learn. Within its extended fam-

and talented young people, research and

“generation of changes” in the ’90s, we

ily, Polis has already generated several

innovation are a way to help develop-

but it has a clear social mission deter-

were all witnesses and participants of

initiatives, social movements and trends

ment. This is why POLIS aims to go be-

mined by its origin. The university in-

the events that occurred in Albania be-

of different natures which aim to bring

yond its academic role as an institution.

cludes many volunteering and social

fore and after the change. Considering

new perspectives to society.

To do this, beside two faculties, it has

responsibility activities, expressed in the

this, POLIS aims to test the social impact

An important role here is also

now established also the Research and

assistance provided for marginalized

of a new generation of alternatively ed-

played by the academic processes and

Development Institute(RDI), as well as a

local authorities and people in need, in

ucated students in the fields of architec-

scientific works, including thesis works

experimental center for innovation (IF).

the assistance provided to local govern-

ture, urban and environmental planning,

from the graduation process. Although

The complexity of issues of Albanian re-

ments and the governments in general,

applied design, and engineering. Thus,

this is just the beginning, through these

ality is among the most challenging, and

through volunteer work and assistance

Polis tries to influence the entire society

tools POLIS has created discussions and

their confrontation with the expertise

which is manifested in free consultancy

by viewing the educational process as a

debates on topics almost untouched by

and the international consultancy of ac-

projects, awareness campaigns on social

form of optimism which enables conti-

Albanian society in relevant professional

ademic institutions becomes even more

problems, etc. Similarly important to us

nuity and growth through the transmis-

fields of design and city sciences, making

complex. Such exchange and confron-

is the educational and research motto ‘…

sion of knowledge and confidence to

younger generation realize that there

tation with international partners with

Being good professional means first of all

students. We would not consider our job

are many ways of solving concrete prob-

whom POLIS has established institutional

to know how to give love to people…’. In

complete if we transmit to our students

lems. Opening the mind and a positive

partnerships, will enable us to overcome

this regard POLIS is a long term project,

expertise and passion only in these areas;

approach to problems are an important

the “monopoly of mind” which still “holds

in which we want to share our modest

above all, we must equip students with

part of the transmission of “secret knowl-

hostage” the knowledge and information

efforts with others because we believe

the ability to transform such fields in Al-

edge” and its translation into action. In

in Albania and isolates it from younger

that in this way we can better achieve our

bania.

essence, we strongly believe in the real

generations. Beyond that, we strongly

social mission!

possibility of positive change and growth

believe in the ability to bring innovation

nership, processes and debate, practical

of the Albanian society!

to our areas of interest and to impact so-

tion that in order to change the world,

experience at a higher academic level,

POLIS aims to set an example

ciety. Therefore thesis research works has

one must dream. Thus, do not hesitate to

are the basis of the DNA inherited from

as an expert group bringing alternative

been one important instrument. All these

join us sharing our space for thought!

Co-PLAN, a community-based organiza-

ideas to development policies; we think

factors made POLIS a reference point

tion founded in the early ‘90s which lat-

that policy is not only done by the politi-

within the country, with the respect of ac-

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Trust in the concept of part-

POLIS is a private institution

We continue to hold the convic-

ARCHITECTURE & URBAN DESIGN

FAED Faculty of Architecture, Engineering and Design

1. 5-years, Integrated Master of Science, full time, 300 ECTS 2. 2-years,Professional Masters, part time 90 ETCS:

- Parametric Design;

- Structural Aesthetic Design;

- Urban Design and Landscaping

APPLIED ART & DESIGN 1. Bachelor Studies (Full-time, 180 ECTS, 3 years) 2. Master of Science (Full or Part-time, 120 ECTS, 2 years)

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FAED

Dr. Antonino Di Raimo Dean of the Faculty of Architecture, Engineering & Design “Architecture as the discipline devoted to transform the reality” is our main philosophy at the Faculty of Architecture, Engineering and Design at POLIS University.

Teaching Architecture and Design within a specific reality like that of Albania can only be understood if one is able to think about “the crises as opportunities” in order to raise challenges of design activities and identify potential views rather than the solution.

This work therefore, rather than being a catalogue, is a complete documentation of the whole Diploma Thesis in Architecture and Design, developed by several students generations graduated at POLIS since its foundation, under the auspices of a meaningful contribution to the territorial, urban, architectural and design dimensions of Albania.

Having this document available, will serve as the basis to draft and guide the Faculty’s priorities over the next years and make better decision about POLIS’s vision in urban design, architecture and applied design trying to match the specific Albanian context with the broader Mediterranean and European region development. A closer look at the presented works reveals some crucial criteria that have been adopted and fully characterize POLIS University’s approach. At this point it can be regarded as a guide for the reader to go through the abundance of approaches and topics been developed by graduates as their final assignment/ task.

The first thing that might impress the reader is the intense diversity of the topics. As in many other similar institutions focused on architecture, here in POLIS we believe in the necessity to face with urban realities and the demand for transformation, by involving different attitudes and points of views, even when they are contradictory. All kinds of attitudes and opinions are similarly valid since the debate on the transformation of urban reality implies all levels of governance and a great number of actors who might have different and sometimes even opposite opinions and approaches.

It is only through challenging this reality that we can reach the so-called architecture or design position. Making students aware about such crucial need is what comes out from the works developed in the Diploma Studio. In any case our ambition is more about “testing the space” and the availability to work within several paradigms than assuming a specific ideological position.

The complexity of the Albanian | 8

reality and the richness of diverse positions represent the contribution of POLIS to public debate as a way to shape the destiny of the urban and landscape transformation. Neither a guardian of the purest tradition nor an uncritical supporter of the “new architecture trends” but a an open laboratory determined to discuss, investigate and come up with proposals, that not only involve architecture as a discipline but see it as a dynamic part of the whole development , preserving its frame value and its disciplinary core.

The presented works have some common traits, which can be seen as emerging POLIS methodology shaped during last years, when POLIS is gradually establishing a unique profile in education within the region. These traits basically consider architecture and design as links with a broader reality encompassing urban and landscape matter. As such, the extreme diversity in the presented works, regarding topics and quality, is based on some basic concepts which can be useful to be recalled in the pursuit of the reader’s understanding:

- urban densification versus urban sprawl

Most of the works stay on the belief of the necessity to rebuild the city, as the disappearing of its main core , the so called forma urbis has gradually become its predominant character. The re-design of Tirana is not a matter of setting a new make-up as in many marketing oriented urban practices. It attempts to deal with the understanding of the urban settlement and its historical character with the idea that a high quality urban level can be reached only by revitalizing and refining the existing. In this regard, we present a discrete number of topics in which, the borders of the new city (as a way to delimitate them and to prevent unnecessary expansions) and the new potential cores belonging to that so called informal city have been both investigated.

- revitalization of the infrastructure and their dialectic role with the urban morphology

Other emerging issues relate the extremely problematic conditions that affect the current outdated infrastructure, especially the one related to the rail transport. Although this topic would eventually affect the regional scale, some theses have considered its re-integration and the urban and architecture implications by proposing a re-visiting of the railway station typology through involv-

ing contemporary approaches in the way this urban nodes could create new polarities within the city through a re- definition of the surrounding public spaces system. The infrastructure then, becomes a new factor able to create a new urban order rather than crossing through the existing textile.

- program of activities versus typology

However, the large collection of diverse topics, ranging from housing to institutions design, points out another feature of POLIS methodology , which is the preliminary exploration of the possible set of activities to be implemented within the physical project. This crucial step is regarded with a strong attention within the process, because our belief is that a good architect should be able to interpret non-material phenomenon that affects contemporary cities and be able to drive them through architecture techniques: framing the activities, containing and even mixing them in accordance with local economies and ecologies development trends.

- living nature versus generic green

Because of their common root, the ecology and economy are strongly related with one another. In our way of thinking, the role of the nature in the process of urban and landscape transformation is more substantial and has more implications than what is commonly known as “green”. Therefore especially in the newest diplomas thesis a revealing tendency is the pro-active use of the whole nature. Here at POLIS the ecology is deeply involved with architecture and urban teaching, and is regarded as science of relations, rather than a mere adjunction to architecture discourse.

- autonomy and revaluation of the proper value of architecture language

Architecture language, that still appears to be a concrete matter of interest within the entire Balkans, in our diploma laboratory is regarded as a matter which concerns the individual student’s freedom. This balance existing between the two extremes of conservative attitudes and architecture as a fashion, allowed us to make students deeply involved with their project by getting an extremely diversified array of works, which makes us optimistic about the contribution that these young generations, will give to the Albanian development in the near future.

Additionally, further interesting works,

are those conceived within an experimental framework, which found its reasons within the idea of addressing computer technologies in architecture, urban and landscape issues, as well. Also in this case, rather than following uncritically what is done abroad, we maintained the role of technology at the service of architecture, which results in works that in Albanian context can be regarded as pioneering projects. POLIS is determined to follow this attempt in the next year.

Meanwhile, POLIS has started to work on restoration techniques at thesis level, an architecture discipline ignored in Albania for quite a long period.

On a similar line, also regarding the Art and Design Bachelor Thesis and in the Applied Design Master as well, the reader will find a discrete collection of cases characterized by several approaches as they have been developed from our Diploma Studio called The Albania everyday life. Within this studio run at Bachelor and Master level, students work within several branches of Contemporary Design, reaching in some cases even the level of complex prototyping, as it happened in some Masters thesis. It is again a pioneering effort in education, since the absence of design as specific discipline, for many years. Many of the proposed works started with a meaningful intention: far from being purely formal oriented the social impact of the design proposal was seriously taken into consideration.

This collection will reveal POLIS’s contribution to higher education in the country with special focus on cultural renovation of Architecture and Design.

We believe that our task is not limited on training professionals. Our goal is to contribute in the preparation of the young generation of local thinkers.

Lastly, POLIS remains committed to address the necessity of opening the architecture discourse to public interest without any prejudice and/or preformed ideology. While contemporary Environmentalism and Information and Communication Technology are continuously emerging as contributions able to rethink the discipline of our Faculty, we still think Architecture and Design as the disciplines able to make a synthesis between art and science, and as such among the most crucial human activities.

For this reason POLIS stays committed to a synthetic approach in the sense of the historical meaning of the word within architecture and design disciplines.

ARCHITECTURE &

URBAN

DESIGN

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2011-2014

Architecture & Urban Design 2010-2011

Aida Kula.................................................................14 ”MOUNTAIN TURISM”

Lisiana Pirro..........................................................34 “LANDSCAPE DESIGN”

Andiol Aliaj..............................................................16 “NATIONAL LIBRARY”

Migena Mertiri.....................................................36 “RIVITALIZATION OF INDUSTRIAL ZONE”

Aneld Kendezi.........................................................18 “NEW HARBOUR”

Miranda Rashani..................................................38

Arbër Kokoshi..........................................................20 “STUDENTS CITY”

Naim Sadiku.........................................................40 “KINDERGARDEN”

Belina Kodra...........................................................22 “RE-CONCEPT OF CITY CENTER”

Persdia Shkrepa...................................................42 “MUSEUM DESIGN”

Flamur Grajçevci.....................................................24 “ART GALLERY”

Glodian Dautaj.......................................................26 “TRAIN STATION”

Joana Dhiamanti.....................................................28 “NOISE AS A GENERATIVE MATERIAL FOR DESIGN” Kreshnik Turabi.......................................................30 “MOSQUE PROJECT “

Linda Lokaj............................................................32 “HEALTH CARE SERVICIES”

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“RE-CONCEPTUALISATION OF SCANDERBEG SQUARE”

Saimir Kristo..........................................................44 “OIKO_POLIS”

Rais Petrela...........................................................46 “RIVITALIZATION OF HIMARA CASTEL”

Silva Kushi..............................................................48 “CITY ART”

Visar Haxhibeqiri.................................................50 “URBAN DESIGN OF ZAHIR PAJAZITI, SCADERBEG AND NENA TEREZE SQUARE”

MOUNTAIN TOURISM DESIGN OF A HOTEL BUILDING AT DAJTI MOUNTAIN Student: Supervisor:

Aida Kulaj Armand Vokshi

The concept of this project is related to the issue of environmental changes. Globalization sprawl, rapid urbanization, and the boom in tourism are damaging ecosystems. In Albania, there are still wide unexplored mountain areas, mainly in the northern country (example: Bjeshkët e Namuna) and lowland areas which have already experienced harsh environmental damages. Thus, mountain tourism - which is growing every year needs careful environmental strategies in order to evolve. The strategic development of tourism is a very interesting topic because it affects our society and national economy. Therefore, the research aims to raise awareness on such aspects, and offer a case study of a design and de| 14

velopmental model. The approach starts by applying projectual policies and strategies which take into account the professional and civic responsibility of the architect. Therefore, the solutions must not only through considering problems and weaknesses of this sector, but also the qualities of the physical and social settings where a new project is developed.

The research shows a concrete case in which these unexplored potentials can be carefully and positively developed while the architect should start thinking “outside the box” in order to help local communities/entrepreneurs with sustainable design solutions, tailored case by case to the different ecosystems.

DESIGNING THE NEW NATIONAL LIBRARY TIRANA, ALBANIA Student: Supervisor:

Andiol Aliaj Arben Shtylla, Nedi Petri

The initial idea of the research and its final project is the relation of simplicity and design. This connection is illustrated in a case study: the design of a public library, following a previous research on the typology of such buildings.

This idea is elaborated in depth in the research thesis, and includes additional details in the design project. Therefore, the straight simple lines in the organization of the whole structure are an expression of the philosophy of simplicity in the project’s design. Initially, the student studies and develops additional knowledge through the process of reading itself.

Therefore, the “book” becomes the key word and main inspiration for this project.

This focus becomes more relevant as nowadays, a considerable number of people | 16

have started to replace the “traditional book” with new means of technology, such as: the internet, portable computers, iPads, mobile phones, etc. Some of these tools that are revolutionizing our way of living are currently inseparable tools for most people, especially the younger generations. Keeping in mind such reasoning, another factor that has affected the development and design process of the final proposal, has been the “computer/laptop” with its specificities. So, the anthropology of the “book” and “computer”, as well as the evolution of the reading process are two main pillars on which the philosophy of the final project has established it’s the shape, functions, and volume in of the object in a specific contextual setting of an urban territory.

REDESIGNING SARANDA’S NEW HARBOUR SOUTH ALBANIA Student: Supervisor:

Aneld Kendezi Thoma Papa

The dramatic change of our cities and the transformation of the use of transport means from an ‘elite’ typology of transport (private vehicle), towards mass-means of public transport has brought great changes in major cities around the world. This shift is also associated with the increase of other forms of transports including: ground, water and railway transportation. For instance, in the last few decades, water transportation, has caused major urban changes, thus turning many simple ports into important city gates. Consequently, cities have become strategic national and international hubs, contributing to the significant growth of employment and economy. In this way, ports are a kind of an ‘emblem’ of the movement, the crossings points of energy, and one can consider them as limitless ‘membranes’. The student’s thesis focuses precisely on these arguments, and illustrates its conclusion with a project | 18

proposal for a port city in South Albania, which is also his hometown. He analyzes the port structures and typologies in other countries and derives a methodology and program for the design of the concrete port in the specific local context. He emphasizes the wide-open spaces intended for the public, the infrastructure for parking boats and anchoring ferries, the terminal, and so on. He has also elaborated the columns/structure systems based on a modular logic, which reveals the transparency and lighting of the object. Materials and colors are also strategically treated in the research and project, in order to facilitate the logic of visual and functional distribution of the object. The research concludes with recommendations, aiming to eliminate the confusion of cognitive functions and spaces and also to avoid a lack of correspondence between functionality and the fluidity of water.

STUDENTS CITY

RE-DESIGNING OF MASTERPLAN OF EXISTING AREAS USING Student: Supervisor:

Arber Kokoshi Dorina Papa

The research and design project of this student deals with the typology of educational-cultural facilities. The chosen position for the new building is situated on top of a deep valley, adjacent to a coastal area/bay with an interesting landscape of terraced topography. The location is bordered by a picturesque road and extends through the entire complex. The main challenge of such a project, therefore, has been to avoid disturbing the special values of the landscape. So, the first conclusion of the research and contextual analysis has been to construct the new buildings roofs beneath the abovementioned picturesque street, which is the backbone of the assigned context. Further on, the design of the building has been intended to fulfill two main objectives: i) the merging of building with nature; ii) and | 20

the establishment of a clear operational structure. The clarity is achieved by dividing two main activities: the administrative functions and the student spaces. The administrative part is oriented as a rectangular prism with two floors, perpendicular to the form of contextual topography. Its ceilings are considered an extension of a belvedere to the scenic road. The students’ space is four floors and also goes underground. The upper floors contain offices, while the ground floor public activities. The top gardens create a topographic and vegetation mÊlange with the mountain near it. The research conclusion also drives the main design solutions by imposing respect for both the existing urban setting, and for its surrounding natural context.

THE ROLE OF URBAN DESIGN IN REFORMULATING MUNICIPAL SQUARES THE CASE OF BURREL MUNICIPALITY, ALBANIA Student: Supervisor:

Belina Kodra Sotir Dhamo

The post-communist decades of Albania were accompanied by regional imbalances that brought a distinctive displacement (migration) of population towards (big) urban areas and especially to Tirana. The capital city was put under pressure as a result of informal and chaotic developments. Indeed, nowadays, almost half of the cities’ inhabitants in the world live in metropolitan cities, with less than half a million inhabitants living in what are known today as “secondary cities”. Similar comparable phenomena exist in Albania. The topic of this thesis focuses on the role of architecture and urban design in planning and redesigning “secondary cities”, as an alternative the “shadow” neighborhoods growing in big cities. The town of Burrel could be considered a secondary town (referring to Tirana) in Albania. Nowadays, many | 22

towns and secondary cities in Albania are attempting to carry on strictly relying on survival logic. Breaking free from this option, the student concludes the research by aiming at the recreation of “space”, as well as the reshaping of their character so as to become vital acupuncture in the today’s cities. The purpose of the design project, then, is to illustrate how design can humanize the city, demonstrating it with the urban design of the main city square in the town of Burrel. The project first considers macro scale with Burrel as a polycentric city. And, then, it moves to micro scale aiming to demonstrate how, with small investments, the city can become more efficient. The primary instrument becomes the main square as the main public places that fosters cultural identity and promotes economic diversity.

DESIGNING A NEW ART GALLERY PRISHTINA, KOSOVA Student: Supervisor:

Flamur Grajçevci Ilir Gjinolli

This project and thesis work deals with the city of Prishtina, focusing on the city center. However, a broader analysis is first undertaken to better understand the problems and potentials of Kosovo’s capital. Some of the problems are: overbuilding and densifying new facilities; building without permission and in violation of planning codes; lack of public spaces, places for recreation, cultural facilities; congested traffic and the need for public transport; lack of regulatory plans, etc. The main objective of the research work was to receive some feedback that might help in re-conceptualizing and integrating new functions for in the city

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center. A matrix is prepared, helping to guide actions in favor of the elimination of problems while increasing the dimensions of the city center’s limits and connect it with the historic areas and Lake Badoci. The final design also aims at the integration of the new functions in this bigger central space created for the capital city.

A strategy for the growth of the city, is foreseen in tandem with the development of the area surrounding the city center as well. The design project specifies how by creating an art gallery and a pedestrian area one can revitalize the central activities and economic performance of the city in general.

NEW CENTRAL TRAIN STATION TIRANA, ALBANIA Student: Supervisor:

Glodian Dautaj Artan Raça

Through research and analysis of the historic studies and recent plans for Tirana, the project for the Central Station foresees a natural extension of the city’s main boulevard axis, identifying a strategy for calculating and locating the train tracks in order to effectively connect the metropolitan Tirana-Airport-Durres triangle; and, then, also connect with the railway networks of Macedonia, Kosovo, Greece and Montenegro. The design project starts with a cubic volume which was fur| 26

ther transformed and sculpted into a city gate. The design allows for the idea of continuity which adheres to the concept of creating a landmark gateway for Albania. Historically, train stations are known as a starting point for a traveler who is leaving a town or as the first place when he enters into a city. Seen from a functional point of view, this symbolic building also includes administrative areas, hotel capacities, office spaces, and suite apartments.

SOUND & NOISE AS A GENERATIVE MATERIAL FOR DESIGN THE CASE OF TIRANA, ALBANIA Student: Supervisor:

Joana Dhiamanti Skender Luarasi

This thesis work deals with the duality and play between light and shadow.

This interplay is seen on different levels: i) at a more abstract and wide framework (involving psychology, art, social, architecture); ii) at more detailed scale relating to concepts of materiality, space, volume, atmosphere, emotion, and sense.

Focusing on the investigation and development of an architectural approach, the research and project aims to virtually and visually translate the concept of “divinity” into a spatial experience. Therefore, the student also conducted a theoretical research on the meaning of the term “divinity” and what we consider “divine” in Albania - a country that declares to believe in “Albanism” and the coexistence of a multi-religious society. Then, several questions are addressed: How can this concept be contained in an architectural space? Can we use the already existing structures along the cities as meeting and | 28

merging points in order to create an inter-dialectic space among the three main religions in Albania? By transforming one of the most important elements of our heritage from the communist era [the bunker], architecture has to deal with crucial cultural and social needs and engage with the spatial design to create a dual of individual/communal worship space through the use of other dual plays such as light/shadow, materiality/space, atmosphere/sense. To summarize the main conclusion of the thesis and project it has to do with investigating and determining the framework of architecture as a cultural discipline and the role of light in it as a cultural practice. Then, architectural space will be seen as a material bridge between divinity, body, and space that materiality and the re-birth of important elements of the local cultural background that defines this new spatial experience.

A NEW MOSQUE PROJECT FOR TIRANA TIRANA, ALBANIA Student: Supervisor:

Kreshnik Turabi Mahmut Turgul Kirmizi; Etlev Dobjani; Ernest Shtepani

The positive values of religious coexistence in Albania are the theme of this project and research. The project is inspired by the architectural international competition and local debate generated in regards to the construction of the new headquarters mosque and the museum of religious coexistence in Tirana, Albania. The location for the construction of the mosque is a very central and strategic place of the capital. In addition, the research conducted emphasizes an important conclusion that beyond the competition’s terms of reference, the city also needs to boost its new public spaces which can be used both by believers and non-believers to further strengthen the rationale of coexistence logic as a social instrument for stability and economic growth (for example: further promotion of tourism). Then, the design project fo-

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cuses on the facility itself and its relation with the public and green spaces. Materiality is another elaborated issue both theoretically and in terms of the design aspect. An innovative idea is the usage of translucent concrete materials, which have a simple quadratic motif and a range of colors that goes from white to dark gray, contributing to the logic of parametric design. During the day, it seems like a simple pragmatic space with a simple urban design, but at night, the space is well illuminated through translucent concrete.

This kind of concrete contains LED lights within, which allow for plenty of light and a new emotional state. The use of urban furniture serves as places to sit, meet, and relax. The trees also provide shaded places in the square for people to enjoy their time there during the day. The water basin also caters to creating a tranquil environment of the square.

DESIGNING NEW HEALTH CARE FACILITIES LAÇ, ALBANIA Student: Supervisor:

Linda Lokaj Astrit Alikaj

Primary health care is the first point of contact between the patient and health services, making it the basic but crucial care upon which the whole system of public health care is basic. Therefore, this research and design project is focused on problems such as these which is are undergoing a strong reformation in Albania. Specifically, the health care assistance provided to disabled people is of very poor quality, among others reasons because of the weak network of the building facilities. The student undertakes a research on the typology of primary health care centers, and then elaborates one specific example. “The Vision Health Center” represents a philosophy which | 32

would be best described as “healthy people in a healthy community”. To actualize this vision, Health Care service is based on the ‘Family Physician’ which covers certain community area. The concept of service and design is based on a methodology of ‘morphisms”, the changing form of an organism. The building is designed by continuously changing forms.

The main conclusion of the thesis is that the function of this type of building must take into account several aspects like: the patients’ dignity, the commitment of every staff member, the excellence by promoting professional integrity, and continuous quality improvement through knowledge and technology.

DESIGNING A RECREATIONAL SPACE at Farka Lake Student: Supervisor:

Lisiana Pirro Endrit Marku

Landscaping and recreational facilities are the keywords of this specific project and thesis research. Among the potential locations that allow for the possibility of intervention in a large space also impacting the urban context of Greater Tirana is the region of Farka, with its own beautiful lake. However, it also poses the challenge of carefully designing without damaging natural potentials and sensitive environmental characteristics. The research and design project was initially inspired from the natural amphitheater of Tirana. The student paid special attention to the study of the area’s accessibility in relation to Farka and Tirana’s living settlements. Another primary concern was the analysis of the previous studies on the area, and especially the careful check of the methodological | 34

aspects in order to achieve a better and deeper understanding of the potential intervention. Similar international case studies were considered as well, especially the aspect concerning the evaluation of the intervention’s impact on the space and environment, so as to draw the key generators of development. The final recommendation and conclusion drawn from the research takes into consideration critical factors like: the background of the area; its relation with the city; the environmental factors and their impacts; consideration of the local stakeholders for further developments, etc. The thesis also aims at establishing a pilot project which would potentially experiment on the actual location with local actors, or replicate the idea in another area of Tirana.

REVITALIZATION OF EX-INDUSTRIAL AREAS Fier, Albania Student: Supervisor:

Migena Mertiri Ulrike Bega;

The proposed project of this thesis work intends to convert the former industrial region of Fier, Albania, in an area that will generate employment, business, and income by proposing totally new functions. The objective is to clean and recycle such a brown field, and then redesign it as a result of a series of filtering analyses including: the current conditions of the area, the environmental concerns, and the role of the area in the entire urban structure of the adjacent city. The main concept of the design project combines a number of new functions, such as: the center of trade fairs, exhibitions hub, playgrounds, and other recreational functions, etc. Another feature of the proposal proj| 36

ect is the introduction of secondary professional education which will be close to the old industrial buildings. This introduction aims at the establishment of teaching and practice as well as sales funded by the school and local products. The rehabilitated old buildings and the new ones become mixed within the new green spaces, a combination this which creates a new interesting landscape and serves as a purifying filter for the existing contaminated areas after recycling. The green is a generating factor for the whole project. The final design is also based on the findings of research work inspired by international case studies from the EU and USA.

RE-CONCEPTUALISATION OF ‘SCANDERBEG’ SQUARE INTEGRATION OF NEW PUBLICFUNCTIONS IN TIRANA, Student: Supervisor:

Miranda Rashani Albana Tollkuçi

This research thesis deals with the re-conceptualization and integrative design of the main public space in Tirana (Skanderbeg Square), aiming at the reactivation of social life, improvement of the quality of space and its relation with the historical buildings that define its perimeter.

The research first investigates the historical transformation of the square and then identifies the main current problems related to access, traffic, commercial and procreative activities, specifically organization, greenery, pedestrian use and fluxes and the interaction with the surrounding architectural buildings.

The aim of the research is to achieve, through design principles, a successful public space based on social interaction, healthy environment, thus preserving its historical identity. | 38

The proposed design project is based on: an alternative strategy for, which completely opens to the pedestrians’ use; increasing the number of activities proposing additional cultural and commercial activities; creating macro/micro squares with a specific character (addressed to different user-groups) but in continuity with each-other; re-create physical proportions referring to a human scale square in order for people to feel more comfortable, transforming the existing urban façade; increasing the square greenery and water presence by introducing islands of green.

In conclusion, in addition to the social dimension, the design project proposed in this thesis, can contribute to the overall city image and quality of the physical environment.

KINDERGARTEN THERANDE, KOSOVA Student: Supervisor:

Naim Hajdari Dukagjin Hasimja

This thesis focuses on the role that architecture can have in the re-conceptualization of the educational institutions at a pre-school level in the city of Theranda (Suhareka) in Kosovo. Educational institutions are structures that work not only through the content of the teaching materials and methodologies, they are spaces where knowledge is cultivated in the young generations. Specifically, the preschool institutions are the stepping stone of young children who will be prepared to enter the long path of education The proposed object is in compliance with the urban plan of the city adopted in 2007 and is located in a central area, very accessible and with a growing number of populations. The building is designed in such a way as to welcome the | 40

children; specifically, it has the colors of the rainbow and the form of a flower. The cellar that hosts the laundry, the deposit, and the technical areas, is the root of the flower while the central part is the waiting room and the flower’s petals are the classes for the children. The facade was treated in order to have as many colors and incorporate high quality materials as the modalities of the building are curved.

The entrances to the premises are situated on the ground floor and a particular attention was paid to the interior of the facility because of the function it has.

In this case, creating a series of flexible spaces that could be re-organized according to the functional needs of such an institution was the key point in the design of the whole space.

SEA & EARTH MUSEUM Saranda, Albania Student: Supervisor:

Persida Shkrepa Albana Koรงollari

This project is about the city of Saranda located in southern Albania, one of the most important touristic areas of the country. A particularity of the research and project is that the object is mainly extended in the area connecting sea and land.

The main conclusion of the research is that instead of the coastal line, the logic of the coastal strip must be considered; meaning, taking into account both directions (land and sea) and an increased impact and interaction between them. Therefore, | 42

the design project begins on land and ends up on the sea. In addition to the findings of research, another important inspiration for the final design project is the fluidity of the sea, and its conflict/relation with the rocky coastal landscape. The entire project is mainly based on these two pillars. A special focus of the project was also the connection of the facility with the land, through an extended bridge with careful design emphases.

OIKO_POLIS

GENERATIVE PROCESS FROM CELL TO ORGANISM Student: Supervisor:

Saimir Kristo Skender Luarasi

This research project conceptualizes the architectural “unit cell” as a living organism that is distributed and spread all over urban territory, by addressing an architectural problem which is as old as it is contemporary: the relationship of the “fraction” to the “whole”. How the system does respond to the individual cell, and to the core family? What is considered a “nucleus” today? The main findings of the research project concern the entire process itself, as well as its final outcome.

Indeed, it opens and asks questions and, above all, suggests a general approach to urban-parametrism, responding to a | 44

specific area in Tirana. Tirana is seen as a social and spatial “mine” where archaeological information is detected and generative subjects are extracted. The generative process of the design project begins with the “sampling” of urban motifs (Urban Patterns) from different areas of the city of Tirana. These samples (samples) are analyzed at the level of reciprocity between forms and characteristics of the areas to which they belong, such as: population density or the ratio of open space and the built one. Then, the extracted material undergoes a series of conversion stages, re-visualization, and gener-

ativity, where information is interpreted and manipulated through various digital methods. Urban motifs serve as input to the ‘processing software’ and the multiplication of across-distributing them accordingly, based on the algorithmic rhythm and structure of Italo Calvino’s work “Invisible Cities”. Then, the design becomes a reciprocal relationship between these features of the site and the generative system similar to an “alchemic mix”. It should be emphasized that the generative process suggests an urban planning not only in two but also three and more dimensions. The final project creates a

living architectural variety of nucleus that responds to the changing conditions of the family, from the traditional one with many members, to the contemporary one that can be made up of a single individual.

Configuring the nuclei of living by the time family members spend at home, at work, and in corporate environments, becomes important for such socio-cultural architecture. Finally, the main conclusion is that the notion of the OIKO-Polis aims to integrate notions of a flat economy, ecology, demography and a family that characterizes contemporary life.

RIVITALIATION OF HIMARA CASTER Himara, Albania Student: Supervisor:

Rais Petrela Apollon Baçe

The starting inspiration for this project is the historical overview of the city of Himara and its castle as a symbol of resistance and identification for the Albanian Rivera. As a natural historical site during the Ottoman Empire, Himara was recognized as an independent administrative unit due to its naval power controlling the Adriatic Sea.

The old Castle of Himara is part of the natural beauty of the area, empowered by its geographic location as a touristic attraction with unique values in the area.

Conceptualizing the castle of Himara’s revitalization, various touristic and

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service functions were proposed regarding site restoration and preservation of the areas’ monuments of culture.

The antique center area of the Castle bordered by ancient walls is perceived as a living room where all functions live in harmony integrated within the historical site.

The approach can be considered very delicate as it aims to preserve the heritage site in its original state while organizing the space so it could serve as a strong touristic attraction for the region that could increase the interest and importance of Himara as a key element along the Albanian Riviera.

TIRANA ART CITY

DESIGNING A NEW CULTURAL CENTER AND ART GALLERY Student: Supervisor:

Silva Kushi Eled Fagu

Being inspired by the complexity of the terrain and the context was decided to develop this diploma thesis, in order to achieve an architecture, which is not only combined with the existing landscape but will also work as an attractive reference point for the entire area. The organic and natural value will contribute to a strong image and to invite people to become a part of the building’s life.

Art can have definitions, meanings, and interpretations of different things for different people. Art cannot be considered as an isolated experience. The views and spaces differ and, hence, their percep| 48

tion as well. The building is accessible from different moments so it could have an organic relationship of the audience and the landscape. This way it is affected directly and creates a close relationship with its audience. In the design, its main inspiration was the flow method creating a mystery sense and more curiosity. In the case of the museum was tried to create an interaction between the straight line and the curved line relying on the basic concept of organic forms. By trying the achieved coexistence of these lines was reached a building that will provide a continuous description of its inside.

URBAN DESIGN

“ZAHIR PAJAZITI”, “SCANDERBEG” AND “NENA TEREZE” SQUARE Student: Supervisor:

Visar Haxhibeqiri Dukagjin Hasimja

ZahirPajaziti, Nene Tereza, Skenderbeu and Pavarsia squares are central, important and much frequented squares in Pristina. Even though these squares are close to each other, they continue to function separately from each other for different reasons. The idea of this project is to incorporate these squares as a whole and make them function as a single one.

The goal of the preliminary concept is the treatment of the ZahirPajaziti, Nene Tereza, Skenderbeu and Pavarsia squares nearly as an ensemble that was born and continues to be developed on the center axe located at the heart of the city. The treatment of all four squares as an ensemble, but with distinct identities, at the same time, was the main goal of this thesis proposal. If the city center were the identity of a city, then the main square would be the primary quality of the city center.

In other words, in a comparatist way by showing the importance that this square will have for the city and the state, this slogan can be defined as: The capital for the state as the main square for the capital.

The square was designed with the multifunctional theme in mind, as the amount and mutual interaction of areas intended to obtain a high level of | 50

multi-polar functioning, able to reflect and present the complexity of urban reality in clear opposition to the opportunities offered by an endless, impartial and homogeneous space. Giving perhaps more space and enhanced cultural contents will make the vision of the square fit the overall vision of the capital, Pristina, as a university and cultural center, leader in the sustainable development processes by providing life quality and a secure future. The project denies any possibility of making the square a monument, favoring the concept of entertainment, creating a space that is the summation of multiple, cognitive, physical and social experiences.

In conclusion, this project, like a manifesto, belongs to an urban marketing strategy, part of the current advertising competition taking place between different European capitals, and represents the central square of Pristina as a new image and fundamentally distinguishable. The city’s marketing heavily depends on the construction, communication and management of the image of the city. The new center of Pristina with this project was made easily communicable, distinctive and exciting.

Architecture & Urban Design 2011 - 2012 Elton Nino......................................................................86 “TIRANA MULTIMODAL STATION”

Igli Sala......................................................................118

Malvina Istrefaj..........................................................150

“POLYFUNKSIONAL SPORT COMPLEX”

“RECREATIONAL EDUCATIONAL INSITUTION FOR CHILDREN”

Agi Ceka.......................................................................56 “URBAN BREAKING BOUNDARIES BETWEEN CITY AND PORT OF DURRES”

Emil Spiro.......................................................................88

Ilirjan Palushi...............................................................120

Malvina Kallabaku...................................................152

“COOPERATIVE HOUSING”

“NEW MODEL OF LIVING/HOUSING”

“THE ROLE OF ARCHITECTURE IN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION”

Akid Fani.......................................................................58

Endri Begaj...................................................................90

Ina Musai.....................................................................122

Mariana Proku...........................................................154

“RIVITALIZATION OF BROWN FIELDS IN URBAN AREAS”

“UNIVERSITY FOR COMMUNITY OF DEAF AND BLIND”

“CONTAMINATION OF THE IN-BETWEEN EX-INDUSTRIAL SPACE”

”MEDICAL SPA - SOCIAL, ECONOMICAL & TOURISTIC SYSTEMS”

Amarildo Fejzulla........................................................60

Endri Kanani..................................................................92

Ira Aga........................................................................124

Marina Mekshi...........................................................156

“HEALTHING AND LIVEABLE COMMUNITIES”

”REHABILITATION CENTER FOR CONVINCED CHILDREN”

”SPA”

“EDUCATIONAL CENTER FOR ORPHAN CHILDREN”

Enea Liçi........................................................................94

Adri Hafizi.....................................................................54 ”TIRANA UNDERGROUND”

Iris Gjata....................................................................126

Nevila Zaimi..............................................................158

“LESS ACES BY CREATING A NEW ENVIRONMENT THAT ADMITS CONSTRUCTION BARRIERS AND ADJUST CHANGES”

“POLYFUNKSIONAL SPORT CENTER”

“RESEARCH CENTER”

Andi Qerosi...................................................................64

Enola Isufi.......................................................................96

Iva Baze......................................................................128

Olesja Lami................................................................160

“WINE’S LAND COMPLEX”

“AQUARIUM PROMENADE”

“INCREMENTAL ARCHITECTURE”

“URBAN HEALERS”

Anisa Spahiu.................................................................66

Erialda Zekthi...............................................................98

Joleza Koka...............................................................130

Rezart Struga.............................................................162

“INDUSTRIAL LOFT’S HYBRIT TYPE”

“ASYLYM FACILITIES FOR THE ELDERLY”

“HOUSING AT TIRANA LAKE”

“PRE-UNIVERSITY EDUCATION”

Arbër Shala..................................................................68

Erlend Baballeku.......................................................100

Jonida Veizi................................................................132

Saljon Çizmja.............................................................164

“RELATION OF PUBLIC SPACE IN TIRANA”

“ELEMENTARY SCHOOL”

“EXPERIMENTAL THEATER IN TIRANA”

“SPORT FACILITES & WELLNES”

Ardit Muka....................................................................70

Erti Meme...................................................................102

Klaudia Llupo.............................................................134

Serdi Fejzullahi..........................................................166

“AN ARCHITECTURAL FOR THE CULTURE OF INTERRELIGIOUS DIALOGUE”

“RIVITALIZATION OF SEVERAL HOUSES IN GJIROKASTRA”

“PROJECTING CHURCH IN TIRANA”

“TIRANA MULTIMODAL STATION”

Aurora Gjika.................................................................72 “SPORT COMPLEX”

Ervis Taka...................................................................104

Klaudjo Cari...............................................................136

Silvi Dodaj..................................................................168

“NATURE INVASION”

“ARCHITECTURE IN SYMBIOSIS”

“RE-QUALIFICATION OF PYRAMID BUILDING & SURROUDING”

Benjamin Kabashi........................................................74

Fatjon Molla................................................................106

Klesta Koçi..................................................................138

Shpend Baci...............................................................170

“WATER SPORT HUB AS URBAN ACTIVATOR”

“TIRANA MULTIMODAL STATION”

“BIO ARCHITECTURE”

“ART CENTER”

Brixhilda Biçaku...........................................................76

Fiona Hoxha...............................................................108

Klodian Troçi...............................................................140

Sindi Toka...................................................................172

“LIVING FRINDLY WITH NATURE”

“HEALTH FACILITIES”

“EDUCATIONAL COMPLEX FOR CHILDREN”

“PUBLICITY AND THE ROLE OF THE PLAZA IN THE PUBLIC REALM”

Denis Djalosh.................................................................78 “CENTER FOR AUTISM”

Florid Virjoni...............................................................110

Lisiena Dimo...............................................................142

Tomorr Menzelxhiu....................................................174

“SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN ALBANIA”

“VIVARIUM TIRANA”

“COMMUNITY COLLEGE”

Dorjana Malaj..............................................................80

Gabriel Kokollari......................................................112

Lorin Çekrezi.............................................................144

Ujëza Gjedja.............................................................176

“ELDERLY COMMUNITY CENTER”

“REHABILITATION CENTER”

“TIRANA 3.0 - THE FUTURE CITY”

“SANATORIUM - CURATIVE CENTER”

Edison Ribaj..................................................................82 “THE ROLE OF ARCHITECTURE TO CREATE A POLYCENTRIC AREAS IN THE CITY IN THE CITY OF TIRANA” Elsid Kabetaj................................................................84

Gjergji Dushniku........................................................114

Lorela Malshi..............................................................146

“GOOGLE OFFICE TIRANA”

“TIRANA MULTIMODAL STATION”

Xheladin Hoxha.........................................................178 “SOCIAL HOUSING”

Greta Disha................................................................116

Lorenc Drita................................................................148

“TIRANA BAZAR”

“INTERACTIVE ART SCHOOL”

“UNIVERSITY LIBRARY”

Ana Hoxha....................................................................62 “YAHT CLUB, DURRES”

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TIRANA UNDERGROUND Student: Supervisor:

Adri Hafizi Astrit Alikaj

The purpose of this project is to create another dimensional space for Tirana with and from a different point of view while underground architecture is becomingincreasingly more practicalpresent in many cities. As the world’s population rapidly increases, we should focus on technologies whichuse integrated transportation systems like railways that operate underground. We are in need of attractive, safe user-friendly and ecofriendly underground scenarios.

Tirana is a citywhere the building density is very high, and the current infrastructure is becoming a problem for its future development. The city is passing through an urban paralysis and its only alternative is to extend horizontally but,

| 54

in this case, infrastructure can become an obstacle. In our case, the main traffic infrastructure (railway or highways) which are originally on the periphery of the city, can now be swallowed by the city and become a barrier for the continuity of its development especially regarding the resolution of environmental pollution issues and lack of open space in the city.

The environmental advantages of the underground are so strong that a substantialpart of the population demands underground space for environmental and sustainable development reasons. Accordingly, the underground development can be quite beneficial for the environment and vice-versa.

URBAN BREAKING BOUNDARIES BETWEEN CITY AND PORTPORT OF DURRES Student: Supervisor:

Agi Çeka Astrit Alikaj

The Volga waterfront of Durres is the focus of study in this research thesis. Starting by the initial problems in the area, like the random division into smaller areas, the lack of connection and the lack of access to public spaces, the urgent need for strong rehabilitation of the existing green spaces, the proposed intervention is located at a very strategic point of the city as an attempt to connect the port with the city center. The Train Station located on the Waterfront proposed by this diplo| 56

ma thesis is an element that is reshaping the city center and providing the city with crucial infrastructural services for the citizens and tourists. By removing barriers, creating urban public spaces, emphasizing continuous flows from the city to the port with a sustainable development, this is an intervention that will establish a new mode of interaction between the city and the port making the waterfront a livable place for its citizens.

RIVITALIZATION OF BROWN FIELDS IN URBAN AREAS TIRANA CASE, ALBANIA Student: Supervisor:

Akid Fani Loris Rossi

During this transition period, Tirana is facing massive changes on social, economic, and urban aspects. The chaotic cohesion of architectural styles, the lack of public spaces, the expansion of the city into its edge, lead to the present situation in which industrial ruins of the communist past are part of the city. This diploma thesis is trying to reactivate industrial heritage by allocating the crucial cultural program of the museum within these structures. The heart of the project consists in | 58

the creation of the National Museum of transport and technology on the northern part of the city. By intervening in the existing structure, not only programmatically, but even physically with the ‘’pending‘’ volumes, the final result is a physical bridge that connects the area with the city. The cultural program is aligned, and the created galleries and proposed libraries would provide a definite identity to the Kavaja Axis in which it is located.

HEALITHING AND LIVEABLE COMMUNITIES CRECHE AND KINDERFARDEN Student: Supervisor:

Amarildo Fejzulla Astrit Alikaj

The purpose of this research is to identify the potential and need of the reclaiming of the city’s secondary itinerates which have potential of accomplishing a social function for the city. By making the existing itineraries more livable and secure, these inner axes would be transformed from simple traffic containers to livable communities. Part of the intervention this diploma thesis proposes is an education center as part of a system that | 60

would reactivate the axis. Starting from the concept of the garden, the architectural building is divided into 4 parts, with each of them having its own courtyard for natural lighting, ventilations and a sense of safety. The shapes of the building reflect the irregular and spontaneous character of children’s drawings. The Internal courtyard created by the union of these four forms is covered so as to be protected during winter.

YAHT CLUB

NEW CATALIZATOR FOR DEVELOPMENT OF TURISTIC PORT IN DURRES Student: Supervisor:

Ana Hoxha Astrit Alikaj

Touristic development in Albanian is continuously growing, highlighting the need for services that would satisfy the needs of different groups of tourists.

Durres as the main port of Albania plays a crucial infrastructural role at a local scale and the regional one. A potential unexplored target group for tourism is | 62

the elite tourism while a YatchClub would promote the Touristic Industry in the Mediterranean Region. The proposed intervention will reactivate dead areas of the port of Durres by providing facilities with economic autonomy and an architectural identity.

WINE’S LAND COMPLEX TIRANA CASE

Student: Supervisor:

Andi Qerosi Antonino Di Raimo

The interaction of the human artifacts with the landscape has been one of the most researched topics in architecture. How can architecture complement and not overwhelm nature? As part of the human activities, grape cultivation has been considered an important part of Albanian tradition for centuries. This research project focuses on the tradition of wine production and proposes a contemporary way of the tradition’s future | 64

development retaining its past foundations. The architectural complex, named ‘’attractive points’’, combines the functions of grape cultivation and wine production, composed by three separates buildings with a courtyard that allows space for grape cultivation and for parking space.

The complex is also an economic generator for the Albanian market by activating the very potential touristic field of agricultural tourism.

INDUSTRIAL LOFT’S HYBRIT TYPE

EX-INDUSTRIAL RIVATALIZATION IN THE CASE OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Anisa Spahiu Loris Rossi

Informal housing is a very common phenomenon in our country, especially in Tirana. This study proposes the interweaving of private businesses and informal housing in order to create an important change that undermines previously inexistent public space. Informal settlements have mainly invaded old small buildings used for storage. Generally, | 66

the image of informal areas until now has been poor and has created in-between spaces, disconnected to the city. The implemented program damages the part that connects the area with the main road, making it impenetrable and blocking the city front which in the context of the industrial appearance is very important.

RELATION OF PUBLIC SPACE IN TIRANA MULTIMODAL STATION Student: Supervisor:

ArbĂŤr Shala Loris Rossi

The initial research idea of this thesiswas to challengethe traditional concept of public space in Tirana in order to create a modern and sustainable public space that brings together different and separate activities in one unique common place. This center will also bring together various communities with the purpose of recovering the values of the community by promoting innovative approaches, transitional education of high quality, social responsibility, and also provide recreational and originalactivities.

The whole purpose of the project is to create a functional object of architectural value in a peaceful, pleasant, relaxing and comfortable environment for users and visitors. The treatment of | 68

the facades is simple, with clean shapes and geometric volumes. The trapezoid articulations offer the facade a pure and simple quality while the volumes are well harmonized in order to express clarity and elegance but also an architectural vision. The materials and colors are simple and contemporary, and green areasare created in order to have closer to natureapproach.

This project aims to encourage our society to invest as much as possible in the development of new concepts and bold public spaces which greatly influence the social, educational, cultural, and economic development of our society and communities.

AN ARCHITECTURAL FOR THE CULTURE OF INTERRELIGIOUS DIALOGUE CASE OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Ardit Muka Antonino Di Raimo

Albania is the first country of the world which in 1967 declared itself atheistic, a country with no belief. After the fall of Communism, the rise of the need for belief is observed, with the current condition being one of religious comprehension between the different religious communities. This cultural comprehension and this religious coexistence is materialized in the architectural complex below.

The three volumes represent the three main religiouns, as symbols of harmony | 70

and diversity. Transparency is the symbol of the communication of architecture with its surroundings, while always respecting the relationship with the Dajti Mountain. Diversity is a concept materialized through the use of different patterns inspired by each religion’s traditional patterns. The volume is strategically located in the future Northern Boulevard, thus decentralizing the city and enforcing the need for a creation of a new center in the City.

NEW SPORT COMPLEX

KAMZA MUNICIPALITY, ALBANIA Student: Supervisor:

Aurora Gjika Ardit Lila

The complex area of Kamez-Tirana is the location of the intervention for this diploma thesis in which a Sport Activities Complex is proposed. Having the shape of a “spiral�, the continuous rounded fluency of this form fits perfectly with the aim of linking the functions within the complex and the ultimate creation of a unique spatial experience. Having the role of being an important pole of activities, this area is going to function as a strong landmark for its citizens. The five sections of the complex are inter-

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linked with one another mimicking the spiral form; the shape is also designed to play a part in the gaming function of the building as well thus make the experience of being in the sports center even more unique. The five functions related to the complex have circumferential distribution specifically in relation to the open stadium and pedestrian spaces which are positioned in the center of the square while the water sports, indoor sports, outdoor sports and information/ticket spaces are distributed in the surrounding context.

WATER SPORT HUB AS URBAN ACTIVATOR CASE OF ARTIFICAL LAKE IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Benjamin Kabashi Branko Belacevic

The study area for this diploma thesis is a vacuum area next to the artificial lake of Tirana. Starting from the territorial analysis and constantly narrowing the beam and focusing on the selected area, it is evident that the area is suitable for the use for sports and recreational activities. “Water sports center, that urban regulator of the City�, is the title of this diploma thesis. The project is firmly based on three points, starting from the connec| 74

tion of the city with the Lake area, the greater accessibility of the lake by the citizens and, finally, creating a new landscape. The artificial lake has always provided beautiful scenery and an impressive landscape for the citizens. But the goal is to enable the citizens to physically access the lake and this idea is implemented by developing exterior sports activities that would take place in the lake.

LIVING FRIENDLY WITH THE NATURE

HOUSING CONCEPT FOR BETTER LIVING IN ALBANIA Student: Supervisor:

Brixhilda Biçaku Ledia Tota

The theme of this diploma is the creation of a “Friendly to Nature Living” residential complex. It was conceived as a complex with residential apartments including different typologies. The main goal of this intervention is to propose a new way of projecting residences in Albanian Cities. The architectural complex resulted from the interaction between architecture, citizens and nature. The concept started with an overview of actual | 76

urban residential houses and the current urban situation. The assembly ensures that architecture and nature are part of human life and human life is part of these two. The main idea offered is that during the design phase the architect should be radical not to create a superficial comfort as in other apartments and should investigate in depth the problems that can create a better architecture and, consequently, a better living.

CENTER FOR AUTISM THE CASE OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Denis Djaloshi Branko Belacevic

An architecture that serves people with autism is the goal of this diploma thesis; namely, the development of an environment that fully accommodates the needs of individuals with special needs and abilities. In spite of the prevalence of autism, the lack of standards for this specific architectural design is quite evident. This study tries to establish a set of guidelines for the design of a therapeutic center for autistic children. The starting point of the diploma thesis was the deep investigation of the need, nature, strength, specificities of the autistic users | 78

since these factors determined the methodological approach that was followed.

An elaborated research on the topic of healing gardens and their efficacy within healthcare institutions more than proved the importance of nature on decreasing stress while the design of the outdoor spaces is a priority for the design of this center. Another factor of the design process is the presence of an outdoor space which will be suitable for everyday activities of children while stimulating their spontaneous play.

ELDERLY COMMUNITY CENTER THE CASE OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Dorjana Malaj Ernest Shtepani

Based on urban studies on traditional and modern urban space, this project tends to shape spaces, monuments that should be admired when people pass by. Having as a key concept the idea of “community”, this project connects building and space in order to create a sense of place through the existence of “pockets” /semipublic gardens and pathways for the residents of the community. The buildings keep getting higher the deeper one goes in the area. Natural lighting is | 80

the key factor for the architectural composition and orientation while the transition towards the street is another factor.

The shading panels are made of wood and shaped according to the orientation of its façade. On one hand, they offer intimacy from the outside and, on the other hand, they give vibrancy to the facade.

The façade is materialized with covering layers of grey brick in order to offer maximal privacy.

THE ROLE OF ARCHITECTURE TO CREATE A POLYCENTRIC AREAS IN THE CITY IN THE CITY OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Edison Ribaj Ernest Shtepani

The role of architecture for the creation of a new polycentric system in the city is the topic of this diploma thesis. The proposed area is located near the Artificial Lake of Tirana. A serious of ambitious proposition by prestigious Architectural Studios have been proposed - the Rocks done by MDRDV, for instance - but they have been incomplete in terms of the human scale of the intervention.

The existing sport facilities of the Dinamo training center in the area suggest the cre| 82

ation of sport facilities, which would empower this aspect for future generations and strengthen the tradition of sports culture. A complex system of pedestrian and green axes is proposed, following the human natural flows. In the north side of the area, a road for vehicles and public transport has been created. This master plan also includes the connection of the lake with its access point, through a large square placed in front of the two buildings.

TIRANA BAZAR

RE-DESIGNING THE NEW CONCEPT FOR COMMERCIAL AREA IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Elsid Kabetaj Ledia Toto

The topic of this diploma thesis is the redesigning of an important commercial area for Tirana. This project aims to provide a landmark for the whole area.

An important element in this project which makes it functional internally as well as externally is the accessibility system which favors an easier movement of people. The main objective of the proposal is to offer an inviting environment through the creation of commercial extensions and | 84

bottlenecks that brings to mind the old Albanian bargain places. In the southern part of the layout, adjacent to the existing façade, a space called the “Night Bazaar” will be created and serve as a center for the area. Another element that the master plan contains is the shading of the parts with the largest influx of solar brightness. The selected modules will be in different dimensions in order to create a new urban silhouette.

TIRANA MULTIMODAL STATION Student: Supervisor:

Elton Nino Astrit Alikaj

The design of a multimodal terminal is an urgent need for the establishment of important mobility infrastructure for Tirana City, since the existing structure is not fulfilling the contemporary standards and requirements, being more an icon landmark than a mobility facility. The Kamza area is a new pole developed near the city of Tirana while the connection of Kamza, Tirana and others infrastructure and service poles is emergent for the connection between the parts of the expanded city.The area that the Grimshaw Masterplan proposes is consid| 86

ered the city’s East Gate while the multimodal station will collect flows from two major national axes, which connect Tirana to the north, south and western Albania.

The node is the core point of the movement that generates energy. Around this intersection, there are three poles which are respectively the orientation points of the processing energy. The three joined poles and the creation of triangular nuclear movements in the middle was the way followed to convert the context into shape.

COOPERATIVE HOUSING Student: Supervisor:

Emil Spiro Elvan Dajko

“Cooperative Housing�! is the concept of this diploma thesis, specifically the ways in which we could propose different design models for different generations, starting from children of various ages, young people, newly married couples, parents and families, and elderly .

For each of these ages, there has to be a reflection concerning not only their locations but also but also their coexistence and interactions in joint facilities. Families living in this community are of three kinds: families made by a couple, small families and residential duplex blocks with an adjustable environment for day and night according to need. The second type | 88

of housing blocks is designed for elderly people. Along with dwelling, this project addresses emergent issues of services and identity. The concept of the project comes after the analysis and identification of the main potential of the area. The final architectural model is a result of 3 components that merge with each other 1. Street! Element road will serve as the main entrance to the project 2. Terrain! The contour lines of the terrain will the main element of the project’s designers 3. Greening! The merging with nature, contextualization with nature

UNIVERSITY FOR COMMUNITY OF DEAF AND BLIND THE CASE OF INTERVENTION ON STUDENTS CITY IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Endri Begaj Ernest Shtepani

People with disabilities are the target group of this diploma thesis. By understanding the role of architecture, we can create an accessible educational environment for them. The selected site is the existing Student City Campus, while the architectural composition is a result of analyzing the existing morphology of the area, defined by its clean square shape.

The new volume will harmoniously coexist with all the other facilities on the “Student’s City” campus. The proposed object perfectly adapts to the terrain. The building is divided in four levels while | 90

the maximum altitude merges with the terrain. The main entrance to the object is oriented north. On the East and West side the facility is contoured by a space of 5m distance, which rises vertically according to the slope of the terrain. Further, these areas will serve as two of the biggest doorsteps, which orient and complete the movement of students from the upper part of the road to the lower court of the university. An important element of the design approach is the accessibility issue that makes this intervention usable for people with special abilities.

REHABILITATION CENTER FOR CONVINCED CHILDREN THE CASE OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Endri Kanani Ledian Bregasi

The topic of this diploma thesis is to investigate the role of architecture on the process of re-habilitation for convicted children under 18. Having such a difficult mission, namely to stimulate an architecture that regulates and stimulates the behavior of children, the use of colors was crucial as well as organic shapes that merge with nature and provide a sense of safety and control for the minors. The first step of the design process was the drawing of curved lines along the Lana river created by the river itself while the straight lines represent the road system | 92

on the site. The interruption of the curved lines with the straight ones of the road shapes the volume. The volume is divided into two units. The first unit is the accommodation building while the second unit includes administrative facilities. The organization of the rooms is designed in such a manner that the convicted minors will not feel isolated. The minors in this centre will invest their time in different teaching of social and psychological programs, in order to build an integration ‘’bridge’’ with society.

LESS ACESS BY CREATING A NEW ENVIRONMENT THAT ADMITS CONSTRUCTION BARRIERS AND ADJUST CHANGES Student: Supervisor:

Enea Liรงi Branko Belacevic

A major problem in our society is the lack of integration instruments for people with disabilities. A design approach for strategies that would possibly be implemented in the city is the topic of this diploma thesis. This thesis proposes a design model that would be spread inside the existing buildings. This intervention prototype would function as a toolkit for other areas in Tirana and generate a change in the environment towards

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adaptability. Architecture as a configuration space is indisputable in creating a barrier-free environment, which will give equal opportunities that are limited in the everyday reality of Albania. In terms of education, the creation of accessible environments is proposed which will allow these group of people to acquire the necessary knowledge for a high-quality education, training, and opportunities for employment.

AQUARIUM PROMENADE THE CASE OF DURRĂ‹S Student: Supervisor:

Enola Isufi Ardit Lila

The city of Durres is a mosaic of many special features but, as a result of the latest social and urban changes is being transformed into a not so human-friendly place. Durres as the main port of Albania, quite favorable regarding climate and its geographical position is one of the most attractive points of the Albanian territory. In case of a great number of visitors from Albania and the surrounding regions, the city is unprepared and the lack of services creates a massive amount of chaos during the summer season. To | 96

further develop the services regarding tourism, the development of infrastructure and services for locals is emergent.

Taulantia promenade, part of Durres’ rich history, is closely related to the identity of the city itself. The main objective of this diploma thesis is to simultaneously preserve and enrich the identity of the promenade while a future strategy should be envisioned for the economical prosperity of the port.

ASYLUM FACILITIES FOR THE ELDERLY THE CASE OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Erialda Zekthi Loris Rossi

The roots of social architecture are principles of sociology, especially in connection with the community. Social architecture is a sub-segment within the growing field of sensitive architecture.

This archtectural project involves considerations in several aspects, starting from: social, health and economics. The architectonic project proposes an intervention that starts in a macro scale and ultimately moves to the micro scale with the Asylum Facilities for the elderly. The communica| 98

tion of the area with the surroundings is crucial for an architectural project. Part of the research is a deep analysis of the daily routine of elderly people, their physical abilities/disabilities, and social needs.Creating social spaces where seniors have the opportunity to not only receive our proper care, but at the same time, actively contribute to society.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

NEW APPROACH IN THE EDUCATIONAL TYPOLOGY, CASE OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Erlend Baballeku Ledia Toto

The diploma thesis aims to propose a new design approach regarding the educational spatial typology, while this project aims to intervene in terms of urban, architectural, educational changes. To create a new identity for the area, and to transform the site into a place for the entire community, is the second goal of intervention. These aims will be achieved through the creation of public spaces which will function as a research center, and an innovation school center, a multifunctional center serving for education. The architecture proposed will be a | 100

novelty, not only for the area, but also for the whole city. In this suburban context, contemporary interventions mean creating a completely new urban and social reality. This type of interference in the Paskuqan area was not completely random. It managed to represent an intellectually fruitful environment for contemplating urban transformations in the context of its development. This analysis did not produce final answers, but suggests indications for certain optimistic hopes and prospects, despite the current situation.

RIVITALIZATION OF SEVERAL HOUSES IN GJIROKASTRA Student: Supervisor:

Erti Meme Etleva Dobjani

Gjirokastra is a Wolrd Heritage Monument according to UNESCO. While the old city is located on top of the hill, the new urban development took occurred on the down slope of the hill, leaving the old city empty. The reactivation and revitalization of the old city is crucial for keeping this historical city alive for the next generations. Same as the human heart functions, the city works as a living organism. Any intervention on World Heritage | 102

Monuments should be chirurgical, because of the high importance regarding the preservation of the architectural and historical values that they contain. The area is perceived as a living room, while all functions collaborate harmoniously with each other in order to reactivate and highlight the cultural and historical values, re-assembling the buildings in the town and preserving the valuable identity of the city of Gjirokastra.

NATURE INVASION “YOUTH SCOUT CENTER�

NEW UNEXPLORED ACTIVITIES FOR TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Ervis Taka Ledian Bregasi

The urgent treatment of the building establishments along the Lana River is the topic of study in this diploma thesis. The high level of pollution has a very negative impact by making the river being conceived as a barrier rather than a natural element enriching the urban morphology. The rehabilitation of the river, the design solution of the impasse of the urban layout, the regulation of the arbitrary development done in these last years are issues addressed in this urban | 104

design project. This aim can be achieved by solving the aforementioned problems and redefining the river as a green artery that provides the citizens with crucial public and social activities and an urban oasis within the city. In order to create new potential activities unexplored in the city, a youth center is proposed in order to promote the new generations and establish a new innovative platform for their integration within the society.

TIRANA MULTIMODAL STATION Student: Supervisor:

Fatjon Molla Astrit Alikaj

The diploma project below is inspired by the movements of the patterns that the flows of the train infrastructure create in the city, with the integration of this infrastructure with the surrounded area remaining a crucial aspect. How could a better mobility system be created? The creation of public spaces in the four corners of the area, with three of the sides being inhabited areas, would create a noise vacuum for the protection the inhabited areas. Therefore, it would be more efficient to move the trains, metro and underground tram. With the creation | 106

of these four public spaces, these facilities are no longer a barrier, but function as a resting space and potential eco green land. The structure is designed as a natural integration of the built volumes with the landscape that is forming the public spaces, and the structure becomes the landscape itself. The Train Station as a typology has the core function defined by the layout of the mobility system within the city; its tracks, entries, exits are arteries and veins which absorb and emit energy.

HEALTH FACILITIES THE CASE OF KRUJA Student: Supervisor:

Fiona Hoxha Ledian Breagsi

The use of thermal water for the creation of a potential health center is the topic of this diploma thesis. Inspired by the very rich ground of Albanian Land that is full of water resources, a potential infrastructure should be investigated for the connection of these natural landmarks

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with the city centers. The fluidity of the architectural compositions is a result of the analysis of the water sound and the fluidity of the river waves, melted with the cutting lines of the ‌... Ground, water and green comprise the ideal matrix for spiritual relaxation.

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN ALBANIA NEW MINIMAL ENVIROMENTAL IMPACT IN NATURE Student: Supervisor:

Florid Virjoni Ledian Bregasi

This project aims to provide an architectural solution with a minimal environmental impact. The maximum adjustment of the facility with the terrain, a low exploitation and high integration of nature, are some of the key aspects of this project. The project seeks to create a repeatedly used environment, for fairs, as well as during periods of low activities, offering additional services that could be used by the residents and those who frequent the area. The designed building has three levels of accessibility, the first of which is a public external envi| 110

ronment, the second a semi-public area that offers some of the pavilions’ services and the last one a hall of private rooms.

Another very important aspect and strong point is the technological innovation of introducing the use of photovoltaic cover. It has the ability to repay itself because of the energy savings that create and triple the function of water collection. The use of sustainable design, especially natural ventilation in buildings, is another very important point of the final product that intends maximum use of natural resources.

REHABILITATION CENTER THE CASE OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Gabriel Kokollari Loris Rossi

This diploma thesis treats the design approach for the rehabilitation institution typology. A rehabilitation center is a typology that includes various group ages, ranging from teenagers to the elderly, with very specified programs based on different types of addictions (starting from alcohol, violence, etc ) with cooperation and harmony among all patients being the main concern and ideal way of conduct. The whole project was divided in three main parts, with easy and comfortable access between administra-

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tion and service, and other crucial spaces. On these three levels are located all the functions that the project program includes; coordinated and in harmony with each other, although sometimes not very close to one other. The designed rooms are comfortable and offer similar services that patients would receive in their homes. Creating a user friendly environment was a key point of this project because the nature of treatment that they will receive is very delicate and requires meticulous attention.

GOOGLE OFFICE TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Gjergji Dushniku Antonino Di Raimo

Throughout history, collective architecture has beena direct response to the development of society. Space, time, and society dictate a building’s shape and function. Google Offices are spread all over the worldbut having no building in the Balkan Region. Tirana could be a regional meeting point for the development of Information Technology as a catalyst that could reactivate ex-industrial areas at an urban level.Interactivity of architecture at different levels could be a key point in creating an interaction between human and building in an indirect way; in this specific case through a robot that would the ‘’The maintainer’’. “The Maintainer”is a reference to the work of R&SIe (n) and is one of the best examples interms of aninteractive collaboration, achieving a possible interactive architec| 114

ture throughout the static and interactive parts of the structure. The porosity is one of the key points of study in this diploma thesis and it denotes the blurring of the borders between inside and outside, public, semipublic or private. The final outcome of this project is to create a multilayered structure that starts from inside - out with various interconnected modules that remain constantly informed according to specific information provided in its intelligent structure.Our society has specific needs that evolve rapidly while architecture has not. In 1960, Cedric Price asked “what if a building or a space can be generated and regenerated constantly? “ Today, the answer to this question today is Interactive Architecture.

INTERACTIVE ART SCHOOL

RIVITALIZATION OF ‘UZINA TRAKTOR’ TIRANE Student: Supervisor:

Greta Disha Antonino Di Raimo

This thesis proposal deals with the ex-industrial complex, “Tractor Plant of Tirana”, a potential space in Tirana with many opportunities for the future revitalization of its premises. One possible option is converting it into a new Art Center inside the city. From the in-depth analysis of the area, viewed not as a single unit, but as an organized and integrated factor in the urban fabric, we concluded that an Interactive Arts Center for students can offer a great deal not only to the student community but also to the young population of Tirana. As a result the complex can serve as a dynamic and active pole center for the area nearby. | 116

The inclusion of various functional spaces within this complex can provide necessary room for the inhabitants of this area while erecting educational facilities which can provide excellent opportunities for future artists in the broad area of Tirana as a new arts hub.

A similar approach in either oldabandoned industrial spaces in Tirana, or possible potential clusters of the city could be considered on a wider scale of development in order to understand the overall potential and impact they can create for the city and its citizens as recreational areas that also work on an economic, social, cultural and educational level.

POLYFUNKSIONAL - SPORT COMPLEX THE CASE OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Igli Sala Ledia Tota

This thesis investigates the need of developing a contemporary sport complex to facilitatethe organization of football matches and encourage a greater number of spectators in Tirana. This multifunctional center will be placed at the “Dinamo” sports complex. The former “Dinamo” Sports Complex built in the mid80s was the largest in the Balkans at the time of its construction, but since then it hasnot undergone any processes of rehabilitation or upgrading. The organic form is inspired by the seamless movement of transparent water on a surface realized with a series of functional nuclei in the internal part of the complex. The structure within the order, combined with regular and linear functions, make this space ac| 118

cessible and simple towards its movement.

While vertical joints are located at key points to make a more simple and practical movement in the upper levels, its side facades are placed in the inner side as giant projection screens for different sporting events. The complex also has an open hall in order to create space for visitors retaining the impression of greatness when approaching the complex.

This multifunctional Sport Centre focuses on the daily needs of different target groups including sportsmen and football players since the structure of the facilities could accommodate activities on the urban level,being a magnet inside the city for the visitors and sport fans.

NEW MODEL OF LIVING/HOUSING THE CASE OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Iirjan Palushi Elvan Dajko

The need for affordable and sustainable housing for the Albanian Society, is the topic of this diploma thesis. The need for residential space is a phenomenon with an enormous market demand.

Many areas in Tirana which, during the totalitarian regimewere part of the suburbs, took a leading role in the city’s expansion after the 1990s. This study considers the case of the “Komuna e Parisit” area, which is suffering by the unplanned and non-regulated mass of housing units, lacking a relationship at an urban scale without considering public | 120

space at all.

In this case, an alternative housing unit structure is proposed in order to not only understand simple building to context elements but also come up with a contemporary model which could be sustainable at an architectural, social, economic and urban level. Interventions that are proposing integrated private spaces which work vertically and horizontally with the public space could be the solution in this case, producing a model that could work not only in terms of the aesthetic but also functional aspect.

CONTAMINATION OF THE IN-BETWEEN EX- INDUSTRIAL SPACE Student: Supervisor:

Ina Musai Loris Rossi

The re-appropriation of ex-industrial areas andindustrial archeology is the topicof this diploma thesis. Generally, the contaminated spaces are considered asanurban pathology for the city; on the other hand, Kombinatis a void space, an icon of the industrial archeology of Tirana,which nowis fighting between occupied spaces and leftover in-between spaces. The existence of a real front of industrial areas is the main focus of analysis while designing this front, which serves as a visual barrier rather than a physical one, can help in connecting the | 122

neighborhood of Kombinatwith the inside of the area and its surroundings. This new front is the main focus for the spread of the social program which can serve as a catalytic approach in the transformation of industrial typology units in Tirana.

The characteristic silhouette of industrial areas which is part of Tirana’s memoryis now a design tool, while the roof is a vital urban wall. The silhouetteofthe existing industrial background creates the new facade of the whole site, imposing an alternative development of industrial archeology in Albania.

SPA CENTER URBAN TOURISM IN LAKE OF FARKA Student: Supervisor:

Ira Aga Ledia Tota

This thesis investigates the topic of urban tourism as a field that could play an important role for the economic growth of Albania in the next decades. In Albania, urban tourism areas are developed offering a wide range of touristic and coastal areas. In this thesis, tourism is understood as a breakthrough sector, which can be best developed by havingan insight in economic aspects, employment, cultural value and the progress of social relations and community development in the urban context. Albania has a natural landscape beauty, which lies not only in its Riviera and unique seaside but also at the height of the mountains, the freshness and purity of the air, in the culture and its traditions. The area of study is the Commune of Farka, an area which is admired for its tranquility, located not far from the center of Tirana. This thesis proposes a | 124

permeable architecture that can be integrated very naturally in the territory and work with the landscape of the site.

Creating a strong balance between natural and man-made artifacts could be an interesting strategy for the development of urban tourism. In this case, the proposal would move to a more elaborated state by proposing a S.P.A. Center and Hotels Complex in order to facilitate activities that are necessary for the development of an Urban Tourism Unit.

This typology of tourism can prove quite resourceful and profitable not only for urbanized areas in Albania, but also territories in the landscape that are quite far away from urban centers, in order to create small centers with activities in the territory while offering tourism services.

POLYFUNKSIONAL SPORT CENTER NEW FACILITIES FOR THE CITY OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Iris Gjata Elvan Dajko

The creation of opportunities for outdoor activities involving different age groups in potential urban scales is the focus of this diploma thesis.Increasing the health welfare of the citizens and the economic development of the area and the city through various activities and national events,the cultural development for the area is achieved by promoting the important role of sports and recreation | 126

through a modern society, increasing people’s participation in all the sports activities and physical activities and also integrating the area in the urban space.

Understanding the role of entertainment and leisure facilities thatcouldcontribute to the city of Tirana is an important topic that can not only empower the social level of its citizens but also try to create a new layer of interaction between them.

INCREMENTAL ARCHITECTURE

ALTERNATIVE PARASITE FOR THE CITY OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Iva Baze Ledian Bregasi

A vision for the expansion of the city and clear strategies for its zoning are quite urgent. After a series of analyses and an extensive study ofthe outcomes and needs of society throughout the last 20 years, it is clear that the standardization and zoning strategies of the “Socialist City” areunable to respond to the subjective needs of the inhabitants, who have been clearly more demanding after the fallout of the authoritarian regime.

The methodology used to study the informal settlements in Tirana hasundergone a process through a sample-analysis of | 128

various housing unit typologies located in the urban context: in this casea minimum of three housing unit typologies per neighborhood was studied in order to obtain a considerable amount of outcomes.

This study tends to show the percentage of expansion and also the relationship between the existing ‘core’ and the expanded part of informal settlements that have been organized with the construction of “informal” housing units. The main idea is to use the existing housing unit typology core in order to re-invent and build a new housing unit typology which allows possible expansion in the future.

HOUSING AT TIRANA LAKE Student: Supervisor:

Joleza Koka Elvan Dajko

The history of Tirana’s Artificial Lake begins from the moment it was established as an important natural oasis for the city, in contrast to the city’s intense character of its urban layer. In order to understand the present and also predict the future regarding this essential part of Tirana, it is necessary to fully analyze the impact that it has had in the past in terms of social, economic and urban development. Tirana’s Park near the Artificial Lake, actually a 230-hectare area, is situated on the southern part of the city. While looking on the site of intervention, strong signs mark the territory, such as the lake, the dam, the park, and the hills facing the city. The area of interest is the Dam as the action of inter| 130

vention will occur exactly on top of it. In dealing with the dam we considerits linear shape, which is divided in two parts.

Above it there is a pedestrian street and below, we have an automotive infrastructure. The whole project is conceptualized as a three-dimensional landscape which functions as a potential scenario for the city. Without a strict division of indoor and outdoor space, the project invites the public to be part of the architectural and urban space that becomes accessible from the city façade through the creation of a new pedestrian street connected to it. In this case, the intervention is not an imposed artificial artifact but becomes part of the territory’s urban landscape.

EXPERIMENTAL THEATER IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Jonida Veizi Antonino Di Raimo

The subject of this diploma thesis is the creation of a methodology for the design process ofa Center for Performing Arts. The design process started by understanding the typologies of theater scenes as well as their agents and users: director, actor, audience. This research attempts to propose a new typology of theater where the human space is closely related to the project by the shape of the object and the nature of the theater itself. The design methodology and overall approach focuses onthe role which this | 132

new “pole� of the city can function in a wider urban scale, working together with complementary cultural poles in the city of Tirana. The conceptual framework ofthe Center for Performing Arts created a strong relationship between the performer and the embodied space. The concluding form was not only rigidly related to the forms of the human body, but became a mutable space relating to the dancing movements. This organic opinion refers to an ideal result, where the physical part is closely connected to its abstract form.

PROJECTING CHURCH IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Klaudia Llupo Branko Belacevic

This thesis is initiated by an elaborate research on the history of worship architecture, focusing on the needs of Evangelical churches, which differs from those of the Catholic and Orthodox typology of sacred space. This typology of worship space takes into account not only the ornament that is part of the spatial composition but also the fact that protestant churches are more related to the configuration of conference rooms and gathering areas than the usual sacred typology. The configuration offers hiddenmessages based on concepts of belief.

The basic element that was decided for the church was the light, an element which cannot be touched but its presence can| 134

be easily felt during an event. The church will have two basic elements: the space where people gather and the surrounding functions which are transparent, allowing total visibility for everyone who is passing through the space to observe any ongoing activity. This sense of openness and permeability gives an open atmosphere to the space putting the gathering itself in the epicenter.

This topic can be an initial step towards understanding the role of architecture in the development of sacred space which functions as a physical bridge between human andthe divine, fulfilling a fundamental human need for the spiritual.

ARCHITECTURE IN SYMBIOSIS THE CASE OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Klaudio Cari Elvan Dajko

ARKITEKTURA ne SIMBIOZE

POLIS I PROJECTING TIRANA I DIPLOMA I supervizor: ELVAN DAJKO I studenti: KLAUDJO CARI I 2011-2012 i hapesirave publike kolektive te viteve aimsdhetondertesave Rivitalizimi This diploma project that the demolition ofup65-85 to fiveUNIVERSITETI or six affect the image of our city through its floors of these buildings in order to build urban development for the next two de- new contemporary units does not justify cades. Starting from the understanding the costs of this operation. of the phenomenon of degradation in the Taking into consideration the bisocial and material levels in the prefab- ological term “symbiosis”, which refers to ricated settlements in Albania, the project a connection between two different speaims to re-consider their number and the cies or different organisms that probably, methods in which these settlements are though not necessarily, benefit from each used. other, we can then apply it to an archi The prefabricated typology tecture whichoffers housing space by coldoes not satisfy the current users consid- lecting the existing building forms in the ering the quality of space, size and ma- environment while the environment grows Fasada jugore SH:1:200 terial sustainability. For this reason, the constantly. The Object chosen to impleincorporation of new buildings in a city ment the above methodology is located scale can potentially have a much wider on Myslym Shyri road near Tirana’s city impact in changing its image. It is thought center.

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05

BIO ARCHITECTURE THE CASE OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Klesta Koci Astrit Alikaj

The focus of this project is to create an attractive area for the local residents, but also for the residents of Tirana in general, based on the principles of Bio-Architecture, by activating abandoned and degraded areas in the city turning them into multi-functional and vivid public spaces. The principles of bio-architecture are used in order to structure the character of the new area but also to preserve and introduce its natural elements, such as water, green spaces, agricultural areas, and sustainable design methodologies. The concept of the build| 138

ing intervention is the extension of a hill, parallel to the valley,whichgoes towards the north and is composed by five floors, of which the ground and the fourth floor have smaller proportions in comparison to the other floors and appear as two brackets forming a shaft in the middle which keeps the other floors bounded together.

The building is a continuation of terraces along the valley, and can be considered as its enclosure framing the landscape, an innovative strategy whichcan be extended to future interventions.

EDUCATIONAL COMPLEX FOR CHILDREN THE CASE OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Klodian Troçi Ledia Tota

The main topic of this project is to design an educational complex for children up to 6 years of age, in the area of Kashar, a newly developed area that shows a lack on the field of public facilities. Partial urban studies have been conducted in order to develop a new suburban area for the city of Tirana, while the project itself is part of the municipality’s urban development to improve educational and nutritional conditions for the community. The building is conceived as a visible organic structure which represents the symbol of the neighborhood as a | 140

key area where its form is distinct from the context that surrounds it, becoming a landmark for the community. It is an open project with different areas where children can perform numerous recreational activities on courtyards connected toeach other merging into one. The project serves as a social and cultural communication center for children and adults, a proposal that can be seen as a pilot system which can, then, be implemented in numerous other suburban areas of Tirana that have been constructed under a recent urban development plan.

VIVARIUM TIRANA

URBAN FARMING AND SOFT THERAPY CENTER IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Lisiena Dimo Antonino Di Raimo

The object of this thesis is the construction of a Vivarium in Tirana, in order to understand the importance of Bioclimatics and Biotechnics in the framework of Eco-Architecture. The main process regarding this project is Phyto-therapy, the study of natural medicines and health-promoting agents, which aims to preserve the complexity of relatively-processed substances from a given plant. In this case, it was very important to conclude on a scenario that would be implementable in Tirana, where this strat| 142

egy could be not only introduced but applied as well, in order to understand the variety of applications in an urban level.

Revitalizing Albanian tradition, a new activity in Tirana’s Urban Farming, through the revitalization of dysfunctional areas, adding green space in the city, and finding a suitable area for the Vivarium are only few of the strategies that were considered in this thesis, which aims to clearly activate this area and create a productive hub that can pro-actively engage the citizens of Tirana in different functions.

TIRANA MULTIMODAL STATION Student: Supervisor:

Lorela Malshi Loris Rossi

This research consists in the development of railway transportation in Tirana and the design of a new train station influenced by the multimodal structural organization. The architecture of the railway facilities can be seen as an expression of modern technology that is reflected in the structure and in the use of new materials. It can also be noticed that the context in which it is designed plays a very important role in the perception of the building which should not look like | 144

something idle, but should rise out of the context while it recreates it. The building itself is determined based on its generating flows which enter in the area made by people, tram movement, bus, train, and car flows, exhibiting a shape of motion which reflects the fluid movement of the railway tracks. This thesis is a response to the immediate need of quality public transportation for the city of Tirana, turning the railway movement into the main axis of movement within the city.

UNIVERSITY LIBRARY

SUPPORT FUNCTIONS FOR EXISTING BUILDING OF POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Lorenc Drita Ledian Bregasi

This thesis deals with the issue of education and its importance in developing an active and energetic youth society through the organization of the educational institutions’ spatial structure. In this case the University Corpus of Tirana, the core of the whole ensemble is conceived of buildings surrounding the university, but also as a leading orientation point of the main axis of the city. Placing other structures with similar height or higher on both sides of the University Corpus’ silhouette would reduce the monumental pedestal nature on which it currently stands (perhaps not only for itsarchitecture but also for the function that it carries). The new structure respects the | 146

construction techniques and materials of the Polytechnic University of Tirana by not allowing the creation of redundant sites in front of it, but only a spacious sidewalk and green area. The library is composed of three main units; the University Library with four entrances and four exit points, two on the North and two on the South.

This approach considers the educational institutions– with the Polytechnic University of Tirana as the specific case study –as spaces that are not only influenced by the institutions themselves but also as spaces which should be integrated with the urban surroundings and how this is all reflected from the inside out in architectural space.

.Vertical

Groung

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(concepts)

.vertical

functions

.distribution

(functions) Windmills

Public

Vertical Transect

Semi build

Public

- 60% green spaces -20% urban farming -20% square

Semi build housing

-50% housing -30% urban farming -20% green spaces

office

Build

-60% offices -40% shops

Build

Semi build

comercial green space

Public

tirana3.0/tu.astrit alikaj/st.lorin cekrezi

TIRANA 3.0 THE FUTURE CITY Student: Supervisor:

Lorin Cekrezi Astrit Alikaj

Tirana 3.0 aims to show Tirana as a futuristic city organized in a very complex subject that contains many problems.

The objective of this study is to project the future of Tirana, 50 years forward, taking into account the continuous expansion of the city. One of the problems addressed by the project is the phenomenonof overcrowding, mainly localized in the city center. Overloading the center of the city are various services, flats, offices, and entertainment venues. Therefore distributing functions to other parts of the city would be a relief, ensuring the free space of an ‘’open center’’. Today, creating a structure along the axis of the Tirana - Durres highway wouldallow us to generate ideas and create economic, as well as social and cultural, development..

This axis has a length of about 35km on which the project will be developed and which will be fragmented in areas such as: the road overpass of Kamëz, the area of the Rinas Airport overpass, the Vora and Maminas nodes, the area of Sukth | 148

and the highway overpass of Shkozet.

These areas are taken as models for the development of this project in several stages. The first phase is the design and analysis ofthese areas while the second phase is thefocus on the road overpass area of Kamez and, later, the completion of a building on the basis of several project concepts.

Vertical Ground will be implemented as a structural design solution based on the concept of the transect, where green spaces are empty and the limits of the structure, cross coming and dense in the center (or in between) of the structure. Functions are concentrated, which makes it easier to life and verticality. Vertical Ground serves as an alternative source of energy, where wind and water increase the efficiency of the building and reduce the resources used. Vertical ground is necessaryas a pole where functions are distributed; the building is extended to many in high levels occupying empty spaces.

RECREATIONAL EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION FOR CHILDREN Student: Supervisor:

Malvina Istrefaj Julian Veleshnja

Education is the process of lifelong learning. The ways in which education can be accomplished can be summarized as formal and informal. The greatest value ofthis project is its focus on informal education, a topic that is being intensively analyzed and discussed on a global level. Informaleducation occurs in many different forms, starting with the first lessons of family interaction, time spent with peers, work colleagues and even our leisure time. Until recent years, for a child with disabilities it has been almost impossible to take advantage of institutional academic services. Limitations such as lack of suitable spaces for education, the existence of discrimination phenomena and lack of facilities which are | 150

not receiving proper development, difficulties in employment or socializing are only few of the problems that daily accompany a child with disabilities living in Albanian cities. This is not taking into account the families of these children, who have to spend twice the amount of time and money to raise and educate these children.

This thesis investigates how this topic cannot continue to be perceived as an internal social issue within the family but how it can be reflected in the societal and urban levels. How, through a design methodology, new perspectives and a deeper understanding can be gained in embracing this problematic, resulting in specific recommendations and solutions.

THE ROLE OF ARCHITECTURE IN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION THE CASE OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Malvina Kallabaku Julian Veleshnja

This diploma thesis deals with the role of public administration perceived as a reflection of cultural, social and political development of a country.

Its aim and objective is to create a daily relationship based on transparency, understanding, governance and community participation in policy-making decisions.

The essence of this diploma thesis is the promotion of an individual’s relationship with the public administration making the individual part of governmental decisions. In general terms, the project consists in the use of architecture as a powerful | 152

weapon in changing the concept of municipal buildings nationwide. In terms of functionality of the object, citizen accessibility is prioritized as a way of encouraging the movement of people inside the administrative structure making them part of decision-making processes in the physical sense as well, as part of the spatial organization of the space. In this case, the community can understand and perceive the new building not as a strict part of the administration but as part of the public layer within the city, a new area to discover and be part of.

MEDICAL SPA SOCIAL, ECONOMICAL & TURISTIC SYSTEMS IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Mariana Proku Ledian Bregasi

The purpose of this thesis is to improve health tourism through the construction of an adequate environmental friendly facility. Health tourism has developed in the recent years and is one of the most significant types of tourism in our country. The main idea of the project is to create an integrated system of Medical Facilities, which will include an external network of cultural, economic, touristic and social services. The general purpose is to create the general feeling of a resort, with intimate outdoor spaces and more of a community feeling within | 154

the programs that will be included. The aim is to reconcile landscapes through remediation and other natural - such as water-cycle - processes, showing how a structural landscape framework can become an artistic, aesthetically pleasing intervention with environmental value.

The result of the project is the creation of a natural intervention in the area, one which will include a well-integrated system of green infrastructure and water that naturally stays inside the building.

EDUCATIONAL CENTER FOR ORPHAN CHILDREN THE CASE OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Marina Mekshi Loris Rossi

In the last twenty years, in which our society has gone through a transition phase, many projects of a social nature have been neglected. In addition to the social aspect, thisproject can also be viewed in the larger,urban and architectural scale. The object of the thesis is not only the continuity that these two issues face but also the rehabilitation and conversion of the river into an element that becomes livable for the entire area. The intention is for the river to become an intriguing point of interest for every group age as well asfor people who are not from this area. The main concept is based on the idea of continuity of “Foster City” which consists of the designing of perpen| 156

dicular strips in the direction of the river and the distribution of functions in such ways that the buildings along the river are low and start to increase in height until they reach their maximum height along the new bypass. The presence of the river and other natural elements affect the children’s psyche and make them more sensitive to the environment. The choice of the location near the river was intentional in order to give children the opportunity to be close to nature. While the above thesis comes as the result of a series of in-depth studies, the issue has been analyzed in both micro and macro scales in order to explore the design values within the urban framework of Tirana.

RESEARCH CENTER WITH PRINCIPLES OF ENERGY EFFICENCY IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Nevila Zaimi Astrit Alikaj

Numerous debates are conducted on issues such as population growth, resource depletion, environmental pollution etc. These phenomena are closely associated with each otherand connected in the form of a continuous link. A serious “threat� to quality of life is atmospheric pollution, which to a large extent is caused by the use of fossil fuels to produce energy that is used in buildings and in transportation of people and goods between cities. Consequently, the design of cities and buildings has a major impact on the environment. This project attempts to deal with the abovementioned problems by understanding sustainable development in general and urban and architecture design in particular.

The task isto design a pilot building which can function like a research | 158

center, where aspects of sustainable architecture can be applied. The intention is to create a space for research, where qualified researchers can perform their scientific research, and information. The specific function of the object is significant in the development of scientific research and economic development of the country.

The project objective is to have a minimum impact on the environment through sustainable designand a less polluted environment, to encourage the efficient use of fossil fuels, or at least, the use of renewable energy sources, which can lead to a healthier life. More than a solution to these problems, the principals applied on my project are somehow a way of public awareness on using resources.

URBAN HEALERS A DIALOG BETWEEN PERMANENT AND TEMPORARY ARCHITECTURE FOR REVITALIZATION OF LEFTOVER INDUSTRIAL AREAS IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Olesja Lami Branko Belacevic

This diploma thesis is investigating possible solutions for revitalizing, reusing or refurbishing “left-over” areas in the city of Tirana, with the creation of programmatic self-sufficient systems. A self-sufficient system is an independent system, consisting of the coexistence and correlation of two types of interventions, permanent and temporary architecture, that complement each other in a process referred to as ‘urban healing’. The research analyzes how permanent and temporary interventions interact to create a cultural, sociological and econom| 160

ical impact in the city and the ways in which combinations between these two types of architecture will provide different ‘healing’ methods to be implemented in the proper leftover areas. As this topic thoroughly explores and understand this specific problem in the ex-industrial area of “Kombinat”, it can clearly be used as a model project for other abandoned ex-industrial areas in Tirana and Albania.

The revitalization and the reuse of these areas, namely Industrial Archeology, is a topic that has to be addressed urgently.

PRE-UNIVERSITY EDUCATION STUDY CASE OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Rezart Struga Antonino Di Raimo

This diploma thesis treats the methodology that should be applied to the design of Pre-University Education in Albania, focusing on the elementary cycle. This system is composed of two cycles: the lower primary cycle and the secondary one. The lower cycle includes 9-year schools. This topic specifically treats education in the district of Tirana. Seeing its urban development, we note that the requirements for education have considerably increased in recent years and exclude previously used methods like a house converted into a school or, even worse, factory adapted for teaching.

We are talking about a building that fulfills all the necessary conditions and the | 162

necessary technical elements. The intervention proposed is is located in the area of Paskuqan north of the city. The samples used for the study shows that there is no school which fully addresses the needs of residents as the existing ones are below the necessary standards. Perhaps it is time for things to change. The project aims to provide a new approach for the design of elementary schools, which will meet all pupils’ needs and will adhere to regulations and technical requirements.

Educational buildings should not be just places in which the teaching is conducted but important centers which provide free space for thought.

SPORT FACILITIES & WELLNES THE CASE OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Saljon Cizmja Antonino Di Raimo

The project investigates the development of a Sport Facilities and Wellness Center in Tirana, as a clear structure for empowering the social and cultural life of its citizens. The project’s design comes as an organic extension of the context’s analysis, taking the shape of the leaf in order to impose the open and transparent character that its structure reflects. The design passes through several processes like cutting, modifying | 164

and transformation. While maintaining its identity and originality, these modifications are made in such a way that they create interior spaces that will later become functional units within the whole. The main goal is to create an accessible architecture that will be permeable through the whole explosion of the volume while the distribution of functions will be in four types: SPA, Fitness Center and Pool Facilities.

TIRANA MULTIMODAL STATION Student: Supervisor:

Serdi Fejzullahi Loris Rossi

The design approach of the new train station and the structure of the transportation system in Albania is the field of investigation in this diploma. The establishment of this station in the area assigned by the Municipality was a key element in understanding the area’s accessibility needs but also the main fluxes of movement and directions.While the proposed location creates quite a problem with the current state of traffic routes, it was | 166

thought necessary to establish a master plan for the entire area which is directly linked to the new ring of Tirana in order to avoid traffic at certain points and during rush hour. This station consists not only of a building but provides links with the existing urban context and the road system, thus turning the New Multimodal Railway Station for Tirana into an urban reality rather than a fragmented architectural design proposal.

RE-QUALIFICATION OF PYRAMID BUILDING & SOURONDING SQUARE IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Silvi Dodaj Elvan Dajko

Iconic architecture is the topic of this diploma thesis. A truly iconic architecture, the “haute couture architecture�, is generated under two conditions: from a design that is groundbreaking and a location that is sufficiently attractive to support the new building. The Pyramid of Tirana allows the idea of adding new values to the existing object. The proposal is to create a new object by not intervening in the existing building but by helping to re-contextualize it as a con| 168

temporary iconic architectural complex in Tirana. The intervention also concerns the square around the building in the form of controlling mobility and allowing accessibility for visitors and people who will frequent it as a recreational space. The new complex will be re-formed in terms of its construction and also its functionality, thus addressing the long discussed issue of the revitalization of the Pyramid, not only as a monumental building but as a key element and a vital public space for the city.

ART CENTER

STUDY CASE IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Shpend Baci Antonino Di Raimo

The main topic treated in this diploma is the role of public space as an important element for the organization within community units. The period of transition from the former authoritarian regime to democracy is the most difficult period that our country has experienced and this is reflected in the country’s socio-cultural and urban development issues. This period included the greatest number of mass movements from all parts of Albania, creating many informal settlements without a clear urban development plan. These areas have no cultural centers or recreation spaces, and, as a result, the selected area is located in the “Unaza e Re” area (New | 170

Ring road of Tirana). This area connects to the Tirana-Durres highway and also the “Kombinat” area, a former industrial area, a leftover of the old regime.

Reviving this degraded and abandoned area through the creation of an art center is a good design strategy for all the inhabitants of this area. This center will provide relaxation and entertainment for the residents and also contribute to the growth of a new generation with aspirations towards a better future. This Cultural Center serves as a design solution for the revitalization of old military or industrial heritage, transforming them into new and vital parts.

PUBLIC SPACES

PUBLICITY AND THE ROLE OF THE PLAZA IN THE PUBLIC REALM IN TIRANA CITY Student: Supervisor:

Sindi Toka Branko Brlacevic

This thesis deals with the contemporary conception of advertising, specifically: an interiorized public in the space of television and internet; a new approach to interpersonal public interaction, performed in indoor private spaces; outer public space used solely for advertising; the forgotten socio-cultural environment, etc. The lack of non-unified architectural style proper to the local context is a consequence of the present condition of society which is subjected to externally induced culture, removed from collective comprehension. A possible | 172

intervention proposed by this research could be the creation of public spaces which allow and stimulate the formation and development of the community, taking the place of gathering places which allow political activity to take place: a contemporary form of Agora.

The aim is a public space that is not a formal space for convention and decision making but contributes to social interaction, a real incubator of ideas that affect decision and policy making in a bottom-up structure.

COMMUNITY COLLEGE TIRANA AS A EDUCATIONAL LABORATORY Student: Supervisor:

Tomorr Menzelxhiu Ledia Tota

The architectural concept of the ‘’bridge’’ between elements of the context, natural landscape, river and human artifacts in the Paskuqan area is the contribution of this diploma thesis. The organic shape of the three-store volumetric space is inspired by landscape and its features merge with its context. Beyond the architectural intervention, an urban reshaping of the axis is applied in order to reinforce the arterial connections of Tirana with Paskuqan Lake. The area around the | 174

object has a recreational character, while also providing parking facilities for the visitors. The above mentioned elements make the building functional both in terms of its internal part and its external connections.

As the main entrance is positioned in the northern area of the building, the light vortex penetrates the building from its center to the entrance, functioning as the main feature connecting the interior with the exterior.

SANATRIUM CURATIVE CENTER IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

UjĂŤza Gjedja Elvan Dajko

This study treats the architectural typology of the Health center, also known as a sanatorium, and its crucial importance to the city. The three central volumes form a common space that serves as a public space for the users. The specificity of the health center’s character assigns a specific function to each of the volumes while all three are connected with each other and treated as one. Axes divide the | 176

volumes while creating visual connections with the context and natural ventilation corridors which provide fresh air to the interior. The natural ventilation system is part of an energy efficiency strategy providing fresh air and energy saving opportunities to the building. A hostel for visitors, public spaces, recreations areas are complementary elements for the infrastructure of the health center.

SOCIAL HOUSING

NEW STRUCTURE OF HOUSING IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Xheladin Hoxha Elvan Dajko

The aim of this study is to point out the numerous problems in Albanian Society regarding social housing. Issues related to the politics followed by the specific local authorities and those defined by the government were part of the research investigation. “Say YES to involvement, and NO to segregation!� is the motto of this project, inspired by the City Hall of Tirana. Its main aim is to generate the involvement of specific target | 178

groups that need more attention from the governmental structures regarding their immediate needs for housing. The main objective of this design approach was to create an adaptable social housing, for the present and future social targets of Albanian Society. The project aims at providing a short-term accommodation for low-income target groups, students, and other groups in need of alternate housing.

Architecture & Urban Design 2012 - 2013

Arnisa Jahaj................................................................182

Donisela Mamani.......................................................202

Ira Shalzi.....................................................................222 Naeda Bullaj..............................................................242

”RIVITALIZATION OF STUDENTS CITY”

“TOURISTIC RESORT”

“CITY HALL”

Adnan Bislimi..............................................................184 “GREENARY IN CONTEMPORARY HOUSING”

Eduina Jaupi...............................................................204 “AN ECOLOGY IN-BETWEEN SPACES”

Atnan Kryeziu.............................................................186

Eges Madhi.................................................................206

Jonida Kanani............................................................226 Olti Shabani...............................................................246

“NATIONAL LIBRARY”

“NATIONAL LIBRARY AND LANGUAGE RESEARCH CENTER”

“TRADE AND EXHIBITION MARKET”

Arsida Ajazi................................................................188

Ejola Doçi....................................................................208

Junxhin Balliu..............................................................228 Renis Batalli................................................................248

“CENTER FOR ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH”

“COLLABORATIVE HOUSING”

“ART CENTER TIRANA”

Arlinda Dulaj..............................................................190

Eleni Liçi......................................................................210

Keti Hoxha..................................................................230 Samaela Lala............................................................250

“MULTIMEDIA AND ANIMATION CENTER”

”SOCIAL HOUSING”

“MENTAL HOUSE IN TIRANA”

Andi Sinanaj...............................................................192

Elios Kovaçi.................................................................212

Klaudja Cenomeri......................................................232 Sanjola Mahmutaj.....................................................252

“HOUSING-GREEN BUILDING”

“BUSSINES INCUBATOR”

“NEW ART EXHIBITION CENTER”

Ana Shurdha...............................................................194

Etrizena Ferraj...........................................................214

Klodian Bela..............................................................234 Smeralda Lami..........................................................254

“DEVELOPING ALGORITHMIC TECTONICS”

“MENTAL HEALTH CARE CENTER”

“UNIVERSITY LIBRARY”

Axhion Tagani............................................................196

Endrit Zeneli................................................................216

Lorena Bajollari.........................................................236 Silvi Balli......................................................................256

“DEDENTION FACILITY”

“INFINIT TOWER”

“SELF EFFICENT RESIDENTIAL COMPLEX BUILDING FOR A NEW CULTURE OF SUSTAINIBILITY”

Besart Gjana..............................................................198

Felissia Veliu...............................................................218

Lorena Xhaxho..........................................................238

“FIRESTATION & CENTER FOR PUBLIC SAFETY”

“EXPERIMENTAL HOUSING”

“ARCHITECTURE AND URBAN DENSIFICATION OF KINOSTUDIO AREA”

Briken Miloti................................................................200

Florian Hysi................................................................220

Mamica Burda............................................................240

“[CON]TEMPORARY HOUSING”

“TSE”

”LOW COST HOUSING AND INTEGRATED COMMUNITY CENTER/INVISIBLE PEOPLE”

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“MIXED USE HOUSING”

Irisa Zusi......................................................................224 Olisa Foto...................................................................244 “CITY HALL”

“MUSEUM OF ART & ARCHITECTURE”

“COMMUNITY CENTER”

“FLEXIBILITY AS A SOCIAL CONDENSER”

“HIGH COURT”

“EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION”

“HOTEL IN BERAT”

“ADAPTION OF TRADITIONAL ALBANIAN LIVING IN A NEW RESIDENTIAL TYPOLOGY OF 21 CENTRY”

RIVITALIZATION OF STUDENT CITY Student: Supervisor:

Arnisa Jahaj Antonino Di Raimo

Since students a greatly impact the daily life and future of the city, because the way they absorb culture and life during this period affects their formation, this project aims to rehabilitate the Qyteti Studenti (Campus) area in order to achieve contemporary life standards. Since the beginning, the idea of the research was to find a solution for the implementation of today’s standards, so that students can feel at home. The ap| 182

proach is not that of destruction, but the revitalization of the existing situation, given that any space carries its history.

The revitalization of an object requires a good understanding of it, starting from the period it was built until today: its constituent elements, the changes made over the years and why they had to be implemented. Research was focused on the revitalization of a student space and the focus was the Qyteti

Studenti in Tirana. The design process began with the moment that this facility was designed by also constantly referring to the other constructions of that period in order to better understand the requirements and procedure design. A strong point of this intervention was the removal of all the informal commercial buildings spread all over the area to leave space for green and sports areas. The road network will be

improved through the creation of an outer ring and inner expansion streets, with separate bicycle lanes.

The final product of this project is the revival of this area through a new identity so that students may feel at home and experience this part of their life in the most positive way.

GREENARY IN CONTEMPORARY HOUSING

THE CASE OF NEW CONCEPT OF HOUSING IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Adnan Bislimi Artan Raça

The topic chosen for this study, namely collective housing connected to public green areas, came as a response to Tirana’s ubiquitous lack of green spaces open to the public. Good housing and green spaces are simple but essential concepts that improve the quality of life of the city’s inhabitants. Obviously, the research for this topic involved the exhaustive study of the housing history in Tirana, the way in which settlements have been developed and expanded in their functions, especially the green and public spaces.

This project proposal aims at being an initiative for the development of residen| 184

tial buildings with important green public areas around it and on top of the roofs.

The first floors of the building will host the commercial area and the rest of the floors will have a residential destination of use.

The façade of the building was designed as thermally insulated with brisoleil elements and shelves. The parking lots will be in the underground level in order to have all the required space for green areas in the ground floor. In conclusion, the designing task for this project was based on the urban criteria designated for this space in the framework of the Regulatory Plan of Tirana.

NATIONAL LIBRARY

APROACH IN THE CITY THROUGHT NEW FACILITIES Student: Supervisor:

Atnan Kryeziu Krist Andoni

The focus of this study is the current situation of the building that hosts our National Library of Albania, situated in the center of the capital city, Tirana. As a place of exchanging information, inspiration and expression of ideas, a library has high demands in terms of functions and with the additional fact of the location being the capital’s city center, then the task is far from easy.

The problems start from the lack of offices and facilities up to the preservation of the old fund. This extremely precious fund, which has been particularly enriched during the recent decades, has also contributed to the lack of of storing premises. Another very important problem, also a consequence of the world’s digitalization process, is the fact that the library is being abandoned day by day from the youth.

The main goal for the proposed project was to build a new library able to resolve the problems present in the National Library and to relieve it from its current state. The chosen location for the new | 186

library was in Tirana’s downtown, in the exact location of the old train station. The idea was to have as many green areas around the building as possible in order to get people’s attention, especially that of youth.

The architecture selected for this project was that of a flat library with visibly-dominant staircase in the main façade in order to as much attention as possible, become a reference point for the city and a connection bridge between the south pole, The Polytechnic Corps University, and the north pole created from the extension of the “Zogu I” boulevard axis. In this regard, this fraction of the main boulevard was thought to be underground.

Finally, this search aimed to point out that a properly designed and maintained library will encourage citizens and, especially young people, to contribute towards improving our life. It must be a connection point for generations in terms of exchanging culture.

CENTER FOR ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH THE CASE OF REVITALIZATION OF MONUMENT OF PYRAMID IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Arsida Ajazi Loris Rossi

The main goal of this study was the design of an environmental research, technology, and innovation center. This is a multifunctional center that aims to provide service, knowledge, entertainment and security. The center offers more advanced means of technology and uses energy in the most efficient way, thus improving the environmental performance.

The selected location was the area surrounding an existing building, the Pyramid of Tirana. This monument holds great value for our country, although it is not currently being used. The space | 188

surrounding this building is one of the few areas in Tirana that has not been changed by the construction boom of the transition period.

The project in question does not continue with the functions that this building previously had. It aims to revive this area by applying new functions to it, by creating a healthy space for people, which is also entertaining and essential in developing different kinds of activities by working together.

The goal of the intervention lies in the preservation of this monument,

without interfering in its form and without major interfering on the ground level.

The intervention consists of digging underground in order to raise the building’s height. This intervention takes place at two levels of distribution. The first level underground, is the level housing all the basic functions of the Research Center, such as laboratories, business centers, the Apple store, etc. The pyramid itself is an object that works on two levels. The communication of the two levels is made respecting the existing level and the structure of the Pyramid by going under-

ground. Lighting and ventilation are realized through the movement of the planes in height and thanks to the spaces integrated between the atriums. Each block of functions on the lower level is provided with an open green space.

The final purpose of this project is to revitalize our architectural heritage and, at the same time, preserve, it by promoting the collaboration between citizens and the use of the technology while protecting the environment.

MULTIMEDIA AND ANIMATION CENTER Student: Supervisor:

Arlinda Dulaj Loris Rossi

The main goal of this thesis was the design of a multifunctional building which houses art, graphics, entertainment, technology and is accessible by the public. This is not a traditional history of the development of film, but an emancipated history of the digital film philosophy.

Each social system goes through a development cycle affected by social, historic and political factors. Our former social system has left a lot to be done in this new century and various multifunctional mechanisms to consolidate. Since the format of this system, in which we currently | 190

live, makes adaptations referring to developed countries, it is often constructed through transposition and not through the creation process. In fact, this behavior or, rather, this phenomenon reflects a nationwide social vulnerability in the processing of development alternatives, which should come from the intellectual elite or by people who are fond of art. In Albania the world of art is being neglected.

This project, aimed at increasing an interest in art, went through its own stages of development. The most important was the research phase, through which persuasive

arguments about each feature were created, starting from the topic’s choice until the final product of the thesis, filtered through studies, analysis, context etc.

The core concept was to create an object that followed and directed the flow of people, first crossing the old building, in order to identify the cultural and architectural values that it carries.

The architecture that suits the goals and characteristics of the project is Futuristic Architecture. The project employs important elements that define space, transparency and movement that serve to articu-

late different and unforgettable locations throughout the building. The architectural style of the KINOSTUDIOS building is in contrast with the surrounding area; therefore, this building was designed as a liaison between the leading architectural agents and the entire city. In conclusion, this cultural center was designed in order to contribute to the artistic spirit and identity of the city, focusing on different artistic representations and, more specifically, on the animated films production.

HOUSING - GREEN BUILD

THE CASE OF NEW DEVELOPMENT OF HOUSING IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Andi Sinanaj Elvan Dajko

The focus for this thesis proposal is the importance of green spaces especially in apartments. With the development of architecture in different countries of the world, the concept of housing has evolved a lot. Residential apartments now have numerous green areas which are at various levels of the building. Apartments do not have the classical division of the premises and are more logically related to one another. The concept of having an apartment in a certain altitude with a dominant green space as if it were a private house would be something new

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and special in our city. This would bring a change from the simple constructions we see daily in our city. This study search went through the history of the evolution of apartments in order to have a general idea about the concept of a flat green areas at different heights (use the green terraces). The final product of this design process wants to show that now is the right time for green buildings to revolutionize construction, in business, in society, in our homes, and lead to a needed transformation for the next decade.

DEVELOPING ALGORITHMIC TECTONICS

RESEARCH CENTER FOR EDUCATION IN ECOLOGY AND ENERGY Student: Supervisor:

Ana Shurdha Antonino Di Raimo

The main theme of this thesis is Green architecture, otherwise known as architecture with zero consumption. The global crisis, global depletion of available resources, as well as the significant reduction of natural resources are major problems nowadays. Green architecture aims to reduce the costs of a buildings through the usage of renewable energy.

New technologies have opened new ways of thinking and reasoning in architecture.

Computational and algorithmic calculations lead toarchitecture no longer being seen in terms of its traditional designing but treated as a means of information and guidance.

In this regards, the objective of this project is a research center on renewable energy, and the education of the young generation. This center will be located in | 194

the north-east part of Tirana. This is an area which has a diversified mountainous terrain and is located at the edge of the Tirana river, which is another advantage. The education center will have special classes for students of different age groups teaching them about ways of saving energy. What is important for the object’s program is the establishment of a link between the functions. Other important elements are the library and the conference rooms which are fundamental to such a project.

This study research includes nano-technology research labs, which bring numerous benefits to the field of technology.

Research laboratories focus on ecological materials, testing, and laboratories which are concentrated on the way of saving and energy consumption packag-

es. Other elements of the project are also small residences which will provide temporary lodgings for researchers who can thusly cooperate with each other or participate in conferences. The project also integrates an eco-garden and a cellar, which will serve to create quality foods and herbal products. The exhibition will be an important part of the project which and will serve to exhibit the works and examples on how to save energy.

In conclusion, we can say that it is im-

portant to make a good selection of the building materials. The combination of the program with the utilization of the materials and the treatments made to the facades is a point which must always be taken in account. Since the object is designed for the generations to come, the use of new technologies and new approaches leading to a better implementation of the facility is essential in teaching students good practice.

DETENTION FACILITIY PRISON AND RIEDUCATIONAL CENTER Student: Supervisor:

Axhion Tagani Branko Belacevic

The aim of this study was to explore the effects of architecture on the human behavior and psychology. Architecture, now more than ever, needs to find new spaces and new ways of serving the entire society, as a regulator and a stabilizer.

All these ideas were clearly displayed using the special and somehow extreme function that the designed Prison and Reformatory Center building has.

The importance of a healthy society is the main idea upon which this project was created and this led to the motives and arguments for the solutions proposed. The | 196

project offers a new option for the penitentiary system in Albania; a program rich with features that combines education with rehabilitation. The design is in full accordance with the parameters required by the primary function of the prison and the relevant laws constituting the true value of the project. The application of new technologies is an important support for the quality of design. The project shows that the materials and construction technologies represent not only the quality of the architectural project, but they are also used for the optimization of the functions and the realization of the ideas

that the building represents. The subject, “Prison and rehabilitation center – exploring the effects of design to human behavior and psychology “, widens the knowledge of a seemingly unstudied typology in Albania. A lot of parameters were taken into consideration such as the delicacy of the topic, the social impact, values of similar typologies, etc. Every part of the building works as a planar model of the panopticon, but combined with other typologies. This typological collage provides a unique solution for the building and closely associates it with the area where it is proposed. The phenom-

enological solutions are enriched with elements of design, where one of the most important parts is the inner courtyard of the building. The courtyard combines the hilly terrain with the regular forms of the building. The natural terrain merges with the building, becoming a part of it.

The final conclusion of this design process was that by applying avant-garde theories it is possible to obtain a building where architecture serves as a key element for its safety and function.

FIRESTATION AND CENTER FOR PUBLIC SAFETY NEW FACILITIES FOR PUBLIC PROTECION IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Besart Gjana Loris Rossi

This project attempts to bring to people’s attention a very important structure regarding civil protection in Albania.

This building typology is provides a process of construction and design that can be used for other facilities with different functions. This building will hold the institution that will determine and approve the building permits in our city as well as check if the new buildings meet the fire safety requirements. No building permit should be granted without first fulfilling the fire safety standards. Given its important societal role, this project aims at creating the necessary facilities and spaces missing so that firefighters can effectively do their jobs.

The context in which the new fire station will be implemented, pertains to an area which has changed a lot over the past 20 years, the Kinostudio area. Residential buildings surround the area selected for the project. The road network surrounding the area is somewhat chaotic and does not meet the standards except for the “Aleksander Mojsiu” road which connects to the “Diber” road and the “Qemal Stafa” road which is connected to the | 198

center and the main axes of the city. The shape of the object is generated by the dynamics of the movements joining all the flows, such as those of the fire engine, the firefighters and the movement of the rest of the people who pass through the area and become part of the complex functions required to ensure of the city’s safety. The object rises as if to show that it is always ready and is efficiently monitoring the situation. In this object, an atrium is also located, which fulfills several functions. Firstly, it allows ventilation; there are vertical elements that enable the contact with the machines and, secondly, all the services are located around this area so that it can be accessible at any time.

The final product of this thesis wants to introduce an innovation in the design process, which is a consultation center that brings us together in a shared purpose with community firefighters, thus increasing mass awareness. By bringing all these elements together, it will greatly improve life in the city and will bring the public closer to a new dimension, by activating and making it feel responsible for the development and security of the city.

[CON]TEMPORARY HOUSING

MODULAR AND FLEXIBLE CONCEPT FOR HOUSING IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Briken Miloti Elvan Dajko

This thesis is about the implementation of a [CON]temporary housing concept in Tirana. This concept combined with others like minimalist architecture and modular buildings would be a novelty in our country, as we have not yet implemented any concrete cases yet. The concept of minimalist architecture is used to describe a trend in architecture, where the goal is to use only the necessary elements. The famous architect Miess Van De Rohe used the motto “Less is more” and this project adheres to that motto.

The construction site is located along the extension of Tirana’s Northern Boulevard.

The project was inspired from similar examples of [CON]temporary housing around the world. Some of the already used elements are the cells with minimal residential area but that fulfill the norms, the different functions which would make the area adaptable to residential, service, or commercial use. The modules can be safely placed on the structure and removed from it, giving to the object various appearances. The first floor is elevated from the ground in order to have more public space and green space. A net will be established on the facade in order to create the right shading depending on the season. During the summer, the net will have plants all over it, which will not | 200

allow the penetration of heat inside the building, while in winter, there will be no plants and the sun will penetrate the cells of the facility.

Flexibility in dismantling the entire facility from the construction site, leaving intact the green space and recyclable material that has been used in the object’s construction enables the fulfillment of the pro bio ‘standards’ requirements.

The researches on housing through the years show a trend of reducing the dimensions of the required spaces. This proves that people are turning the space strictly into a space in function of themselves. The final product of this research study provides a flexible building which is a new element in Tirana and can help reduce the cases of inevitable errors that may influence generations to come.

These past years, the number of visitors, foreign students, and entrepreneurs has been growing. This phenomenon requires an adequate accommodation space and the [CON]temporary housing resolution seems quite a brilliant approach. Our city is located in an urban situation where projects that give more importance to the green element are essential in reducing high pollution.

TOURISTIC RESORT

ECO-RURAL TOURISM CONCEPT Student: Supervisor:

Donisela Mamani Loris Rossi

The theme of this research study is eco-rural tourism. Tourism is a dynamic element and particularly developed in those areas in which there is a great demand for natural benefits such as climate, natural beauty, a healthy environment, and in which the tourism sector is supported by appropriate infrastructure. In our country, several types of tourism can be developed like mountain tourism, rural tourism, cultural tourism and coastal tourism. The lakes are one of the main sources of environmental, touristic and economical values. The Farka lake is located in a very convenient position and is surrounded by natural green space. Areas around it are not exploited because of the lack of necessary infrastructure. The climacteric conditions of the area are moderate and conducive to tourism as it is part of the Mediterranean plains’ climatic zone.

The basic principles of eco-tourism are sustainable and composed of environmental, economic and socio-cultural elements. In order to have a healthy and successful structure, it is necessary to establish a balance among these three aspects. The main object of this project was the regeneration of the area through the | 202

construction of an object, which is closely linked not only to the nature but also to the traditions of the area, and its adaptation in such a way as to become one with the surrounding terrain.

The development of the form of the object was done through to the movements of the volumes. The final form of the building was composed based on the two main axes introducing the greater flow in the area. The volume of the designed building is composed of three main bodies and the facade has several vertical openings so that the structure has as much natural light as possible. The building is positioned so as to respect the natural contour of the hill and become part of it.

A seamless merging with the surrounding landscape is a key feature of the structure. The building cannot be thought as separate from the environment but as a part of it; it must be dissolved in it. The final product of this study search wants to show that, through the necessary infrastructure and proper architecture, tourism and, especially eco-rural tourism can be sucessfully developed in our country.

AN ECOLOGY IN-BETWEEN SPACES

EoRC (ECOLOGY OF RESPONSIVE CATALYSTS) Student: Supervisor:

Eduina Jaupi Antonino Di Raimo

Every day we live in a city that doesn’t even struggle to emerge from a model that has expired a long time ago. The same rules, styles and patterns continue to repeat themselves over and over again, bringing chaos and pollution.

There is a huge need for relevant changes to meet and benefit from new complex forms, parametric design systems and responsive technologies, which have become the norm in contemporary architecture.

Appropriately, this study focuses on the EoRC (Ecology of Responsive Catalysts). The EoRC is a system of sustainable and self-sufficient architectural elements pinned in neighborhoods of Tirana, which act as catalysts for resolving issues of leftover spaces, pollution, circulation and social interaction. This system similar to nature’s ecosystems, is an integrated whole, whose properties emerge from the relations between its individual parts.

Parts of the system are permanent structures, which aim to reshape and revitalize the neighborhood, and parts of it are temporary, to create a sense of transformation and social bonds.

The main element and one of the catalysts of this project is an organism, which only recently has gained popularity in the world of architecture, the Algae.

During this study, EoRC is also referred to as “the green capillaries of the city”, | 204

composed of sustainable laboratories, libraries, fresh water/air tea and coffee rooms or bicycle routes and stations.

Therefore, following this logic, the Algae can be considered the blood circulating through the neighborhoods, giving life to them, reshaping and organizing the space, cleaning the water and giving a breath of fresh air to us, the citizens of Tirana.

The system is composed of simple-shaped structures with light materials and neutral colors. Their simplicity comes as a result of the existing type and shape of buildings in the area. Regular quadratic forms are preserved on the in-between structures, adapting to the Communist apartment buildings they are attached to. They are composed of metallic elements, which fix this attachment and make the structures look elegant.

The grey and green colors prevail, but shades of red are used in certain elements to differentiate them. Algae_Lab is conceptualized in the same way, looking as it is composed of three of the In_Between structures. The difference consists of a thin metallic grid which makes the building more unified and simple in terms of the façade covering these three structures. Accessibility to the Lab is possible by using metallic ramps, which surround the three structures and which are an extension of the Interconnectors.

NATIONAL LIBRARY AND LANGUAGE RESEARCH CENTER

THE CASE OF NEW FACILITIES FOR THE CITY OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Eges Madhi Dorina Papa

Even with all the great developments of the digital era, during which people receive information in real time through the internet, social networks and media, books are and will always be a window of knowledge, culture. They are nutrition for the human mind. De Amicis wrote: “A house without a library is a home without sensibility”.

The main goal of this research study is the design of a modern library for our hometown, Tirana. A library is an institution that, through the dissemination of knowledge, greatly contributes to the development and emancipation of human society; The designed building will have reading rooms, auditoriums and offices for linguistic researches which, so far, have been missing in the existing libraries. All of these features will make it a much frequented facility, dear to all and a catalyst for the social and cultural life of the capital.

The object is located near the center of Tirana, at the intersection of two of the most important streets of the capital, the Ring Road along the Lana River, | 206

in the south, and the “Elbasani” street, in the east. The area is surrounded by 5-story old apartment buildings and 10-story towers recently constructed. The building site is a public space, a park with old tall trees but which has been considered a transit pathway by the residents during the years. The main objective of the project is an organized system of the distribution of functions. The library and the research centers will operate separately, but in tandem referring to the number of documents, typology, qualifying characteristics, mode of access and service qualification. The library building will have four floors above the ground and two underground floors, which will serve as an archival storage of old books and a parking area.

The final product of this thesis was designed keeping in mind that libraries are designed and used today but passed on to future generations; they are part of the cultural capital. The way these buildings are designed and implemented must meet the future generation’s needs.

COLLABORATIVE HOUSING

NEW TYPOLOGY OF RESIDENTIAL LIVING IN ALBANIA Student: Supervisor:

Ejola Doçi Elvan Dajko

The main goal of this project was to reestablish an old style of interaction between residents, in order to have a social life during which we, interact and help each other through the concept of “Cohousing”.

The concept of residence was born simultaneously with the need of humanity to be sheltered and protected from familiar and foreign hazards. New constructions were mainly concentrated inside the urban areas due to the high number of population and migration from the village to the city. Census statistics show that the rural population has decreased by 13 % compared to 1989 statistics, while in urban areas it has increased by 15%. Because of these population movements, unemployment in urban areas has been on a steady rise. Unemployment directly affects housing, since the possibilities of owning a private residence are too low. Given the economic level of Albania, which is lower than the European standards, a new typology of buildings is needed that is unlike the usual residential typologies dominant in Albania.

“Cohousing” is a new typology that should be implemented, new to us but well-known and highly successful in many other European countries. The definition of “Co-ho” and “cohousing” means “Collaborate Housing”. It encourages so| 208

cialization in a shared residence, the inhabitants of which are of various ages.

The facilities are owned and managed by the people who live in it.

In order to reduce the cost of construction an already-existing building was chosen, one from the former “Uzina e Autotraktorëve”, on the eastern outskirt of Tirana. The chosen building is surrounded by many informal residential buildings, which can be integrated in the project, by changing their function, namely creating green public spaces instead.

The main facade of the facility is northeast oriented in order to have proper sunlight during winter and summer season. The “Co-Ho” building will have the shape of 3, 4, 5 and 7-story towers with separate different accesses. The 4-floor tower is oriented towards the main entrance and has shared facilities on the first floor. The same organization is also used for other towers; the first floors are service floors since these towers will be a continuation of the existing building.

This research study and the project as its final product wants to show that the creation of a “Co-Ho” corporation in Albania will restore architectural values by giving life to old existing abandoned buildings. This kind of architecture will create a new residential typology in Albania and will encourage social interaction among residents.

SOCIAL HOUSING

NEW THINKING FOR TIRANA COMPLEX OF LIVING Student: Supervisor:

Eleni Liçi Elvan Dajko

This study aims to highlight the numerous problems that Albanian society has in terms of social housing and the policies pursued by the competent authorities designated by the various governments in Albania. This research wants to explain the obvious weaknesses, opportunities, policies followed and a detailed analysis of the Albanian social housing. The inspiration for this project came from the Municipality, which aims to include in its projects, particular social groups that require more attention from the state and that have an urgent demand for housing.

This opportunity was offered to people (social and economic layers) which did not have the economic resources to buy a an expensive apartment, people or groups that need temporary shelter, as well as those layers that cannot rent an apartment because of Tirana’s high prices today.

This residential complex was organized in five separate areas: the commercial area, social housing area, residen| 210

tial area, business area and school area.

The most appropriate form that meted all the technical and economic conditions, accessibility, and need for public space was the apartment block / line type of building. The concept of the building was inspired by the accessibility and flows of the former Fusha e Aviacionit in its current situation. This project is composed of two 6 -story buildings, where the first floors host commercial services while the other five floors host apartments.

In conclusion, it has to be emphasized once more that, nowadays, state assets are significantly reduced and only a small percentage of people benefit from social housing. We have to identify and understand the policies followed through the years regarding social housing in Albania in order to understand the shortcomings of the system and provide solutions for this social stratum through the appropriate architecture.

BUSSINES INCUBATOR Student: Supervisor:

Elios Kovaçi Krist Andoni

The main idea of this thesis is a Business Incubator as an ongoing part of the market-line, a place dedicated to the exchange of services in a determined period of time. This structure is designed as a meeting point for contemporary requirements and services. The business incubator is thought as an institution where new ideas are developed from the initial stage to their materialization.

This facility was designed so that innovative ideas can be conceived, de| 212

velop for a certain period and become valuable because they may participate in many scenarios which are not offered in the market that lies outside the building.

The corridor of the future of Tirana is the extension of the main boulevard’s axis that starts from the corpus of the University of Tirana and goes straight to Paskuqan park. Hence, the idea of establishing a business incubator at the end of this axis, in order to create a sig-

nificant segment of interaction between technology and knowledge. The business incubator is also located near a green corridor, a continuation of the Tirana river, from which the building gets part of the resources in order to be more autonomous regarding energy resources.

The business incubator project is based on a field that imparts energy flows from the river up to the city. The building is a solid volume on the outside but has a dissolved internal organization.

As for the volume, the building is articulated as a collage of shades, transparency and different materials where the entire volume is enfolded by a common cover which unifies the building. The building’s access points are distributed in its four sides thus directing the flows of people to the most frequented points such as the road leading to the river park or to Tirana.

MENTAL HEALTH CARE CENTER

NEW COMPLEX FACILITIES FOR TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Etrizena Ferraj Antonino Di Raimo

Throughout human history, people with mental disorders have lived a unprivileged life, as their needs are often not taken into account because they are “different”; their story is the story of silence.

In order to break down this silence, hard work is required from the institutions in charge. A building meeting all the necessary requirements is not enough to achieve a decent development in this regard but we must change the mentality of our society regarding how these buildings are built and treated.

The question about architecture’s role in the treatment of mental disorders raises many questions about the purpose of architecture. What would be architecture’s drive if not to provide a better life for humankind by? This research phase, composed of various steps, resulted in the idea of creating an architecture for people who are considered “different”, an environment that takes into account their | 214

specific needs.

The location of the complex was chosen based on the need for establishing an appropriate relationship with the natural context and depending on the purpose of each specific area. The form chosen for the various buildings that make up the complex create free areas that can serve as public areas and be organized in a way that each building has its fair share of services. The facades of the buildings are made up of various elements, among which, the most important ones are the vertical and horizontal ones. The common areas have large openings in order to be transparent and easily perceived at the same time. The inner court has a complex treatment as it is the common environment for all complex’s facilities. The final product of this study aims to show that architecture has a vital impact on our society and especially on people with mental disabilities.

‘INFINIT TOWER’ Student: Supervisor:

Endrit Zeneli Artan Raça

This research aims to treat some of the ways through which architecture and urban planning can be changeable, interactive and adaptable according to people’s needs, at different times and in different contexts. In this regard, the extension of Tirana’s main boulevard axis enables the creation of a new development pole at the other end of the city. Along this axis, the master plan provides various functions which will be helpful to the surrounding area. This was the inspiration that gave the idea of the Infinity Tower, a building that houses the offices of the municipality of Tirana. The Municipality is the first encounter with the identity of the city. The way people are treated at this institution constitutes their perception about the city, so the building that holds the municipali| 216

ty’s offices is very important.

The area selected for the construction of the tower is located along the boulevard’s main axis and includes a park which converges with the river to the north. The architectural tower type was chosen because it offers the possibility to combine a high intensity with a relatively small built surface and large green spaces. Another positive side of this buildings type is the time and transportation costs reduction because of having a large number of services within reach in the same building. In conclusion, in a metropolis like Tirana with a quickly-developing urban sprawl, the vertical development of the buildings is the key to open green spaces in order to let the city breathe.

EXPERIMENTAL HOUSING

FLEXIBLE AND INNOVATIVE CONCEPT FOR HOUSING IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Felissia Veliu Elvan Dajko

A deep reflection of the long scientific research was presented in the case of every solution given to the architecture of the project. Flexibility, hybridity, multi-programs, communicative architecture, new physical typology, etc. are some of the words that could define what this project represents. It tends to challenge conventional typologies, use innovative approaches in design and create new economic relations. The whole building works like a mini city, but not in a social condenser type of behavior, more like a hybrid which does not reflect a previous model, especially for the Albanian society.

Located in a place that does not condition its behavior to pre-existing consolidated situations, the project is free to propose new behaviors, new lifestyles and new mentalities. As a hybrid, it tends to merge with its urban pattern and its surroundings, avoiding strong limits and creating daily an inviting space for everyone. Diversity prevails as a matrix, able to favor the coexistence of different types and multiple programs within mechanisms and structures. It affects the spatial aggregation, not only in the horizontal plane but also on the vertical axis, not just the residential aspect but also “multi-programmatic” one introduced in the design by the study of complex sections. Mixing typologies and | 218

functions helps create a more colorful atmosphere, attracting people from different backgrounds and different family typologies. This creates a place where generations, mentalities and ideas can be confronted. Spread functions all over the building create a 24-hour accessibility, assuring better security and usage of every part. Circulation is created in a way that you get to experience the different atmospheres, access the common spaces with various functions or if you want, get to your destination immediately without having to take the longest paths. Circulation also plays the role of a catalyst for social interactions. Everything is placed along the paths and, as described in the case of the social condenser, the overlap of the different functions with circulation creates areas of public usage. The building is equipped with large corridors that serve both as a passing space, but also as public space with sitting elements, different functions and green areas. It looks like a participatory project, where a lot of things can be decided by the inhabitants, but every decision is somehow conditioned by the architect’s choices.

Modules are predefined, extensions are predicted, common spaces are located in strategic places, etc.

TSE - TIRANA STOCK EXCHANGE Student: Supervisor:

Florian Hysi Dorina Papa

This focuses on the importance and meaning of the Tirana Stock Exchange and the impact that it has on the economic development. One of the challenges is generating the necessary space of fitting all its activities in an aesthetically-pleasant space since it is a symbol of economic and architectural development.

The combination of the two is this project, which will balance between private functions and symbolize its stable position for the future of the TSE. The project fits naturally with any required function.

Only a few years have passed since it TSE opened, unlike the stock markets of countries with developed economies like the Amsterdam Stock Exchange, the Paris Stock Exchange, the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, the London Stock Exchange and the Stock Exchange of New York- Regulation, which have buildings that are iconic and have been a school for generations of architects because of their design.

Creating the necessary spaces, their integration with the requirements of today’s society and the future is the main goal of this study. Therefore, the project combines elements of architecture, typol| 220

ogy, economy and human psychology.

The new building used the idea of a square that binds to the green and goes inside the facility in the form of an atrium, a communication space for socialization and relaxation ends with a terrace on top of the building and offers a view along the two sides of Tirana’s main boulevard, which is also the construction site.

Through a research focused on lighting in work places, the atrium emphasizes the optimal natural lighting which has a direct impact on the employees’ work performance; it also helps the passive ventilation of the facility. In terms of the building’s volume, creating disparities is supposed to favor visual perception and establish links with the surrounding context. The height of the building is supposed to be up to six stories so as to meet the needs for new facilities needed for a functioning stock exchange.

In conclusion, the purpose of this study was to express the importance of the TSE and present a building which will become a symbol for the strength, transparency, stability, and the socio-economic development such an institution it represents.

CITY HALL NEW COMERCIAL FACILITIES IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Ira Shalzi Krist Andoni

This thesis focuses on commercial spaces. During the recent decades, we are witnessing the generation of new commercial spaces. These spaces are scattered almost everywhere in the urban landscape and within existing buildings like libraries, workplaces, museums, train stations, airports etc. Therefore, commercial spaces are increasingly becoming part of the public space. In today’s consumer society, “ shopping” is not simply related to the quality and the best prices, but also to creating a personal style and identity. Architecture, design and commercial spaces tend to focus on creating a brand, public space, and a pleasant place for making purchases. | 222

Today, the city and commercial spaces reflect each other. So, on one hand, we have commercial cities in which urban life is characterized by the privatization and fragmentation of the urban life and, on the other, malls and commercial spaces which are part of the city life, becoming and representing a development opportunity. This study research also goes through the analysis of what shopping centers are, how they have evolved over time influenced by people’s requests, their distance from the city, and how they are experienced not simply as purchase spaces but as parts to be integrated in the city, making it a value-added in an already formed urban situation.

13TH GATE MUSEUM LIKE A CATALIZATOR FOR DEVELOPING THE CITY OF DURRES Student: Supervisor:

Irisa Zusi Krist Andoni

The first desire and longing to design a museum in the ancient city of Lissus (Lezha), comes from the immediate needs for housing, protection and conservation of an arsenal, which nowadays is a precious, cultural and historical city. This heritage that bears great national importance values requires a very special attention. A city with a 2500 years old history, holding historical, cultural, religious and archeological sites, actually lacks a museum.

This project was about the construction of a museum according to European models that embody all the values and contemporary standards, in order to meet the optimal requirements of the community and be at the service of its | 224

citizens. An essential object, with a clear purpose, that will transmit the glorious past to the future generations. This museum will also be important because it will host the relics of the recently promising archaeological and excavations discoveries in the protected area around the castle and the Memorial of Skanderbeg.

This museum will be an added value to the identity of the city. Obviously, historical, cultural and archaeological tourism are a clear vision and perspective of the future developments for this city.

The final product of this design process aims at enriching the cultural heritage and the historical background of the city through the concept of a new museum.

TRADE AND EXHIBITION MARKET

RIVITALIZATION OF EX-INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Jonida Kanani Dorina Papa

To study the history of your country means to know and love it. This recognition and this love began with the identification, primarily visual, of the objects left in limbo in Tirana. These buildings are numerous, for example the Combine Tractor Plant, Uzina Enver, various plants along the Tirana River, the Dajti Hotel and other objects. These historic buildings are much more than structures made of bricks and mortar. They are the connecting nodes with today’s generation and the national heritage. However, historical buildings have fallen victims to forgetfulness and, therefore, need to be revitalized and renewed.

The aim of this thesis was to revitalize and give a new identity to the former Uzina Enver. The building is situated along Kavaja Street and near the Lana River. This facility was chosen because it is close to the city center and has a good connection with the ring of the city and has unexploited spaces that serve as a positive point in significantly developing the city. | 226

In general lines, the idea consists in creating a key node, which will serve as a reference point or aggregation point for the residents of the city of Tirana as well as for tourists. This revitalization will also be connected with another topic that has to do with the function that the building will have. The function will be a fair and exhibition center that will collect all the businesses. This function was selected because Tirana is lacking an authentic center of fairs and, in this way, the unexploited buildings will be used. Business in Tirana is growing and also the need of good promotion.

This project is based on the final concept and consists in the elaboration of all ideas and their materialization in a real object. This objective brings a novel element in our city because of the former Uzina Enver evolving into a new object, quite different from what it currently is.

This building will serve as a link or reference point where anyone can come and find themselves in the environments that it offers.

ART CENTER TIRANA

SUFFIENCY TIRANA WITH NEW FACILITIES Student: Supervisor:

Junxhin Balliu Branko Belacevic, Elvan Dajko

Facing the challenges of population growth, energy crisis, land pressure and environmental deterioration, modern urbanization calls for an innovation in governance in order to facilitate flexible spatial transformations and to promote the creative redevelopment of the city.

This project aims at developing urban subsurface as a sustainable option for renewing congested urban centers and for updating public infrastructures, in an economically viable and institutionally feasible way. The optimization of the urban underground space use has to take into account social-economic demand and supply capacity of geo-space resources.

Based on the macro-zoning of urban underground space (UUS) at a city scale, an economic model is developed to perform | 228

micro-analyses for specific project evaluations. The economic analysis of this project takes in account direct and indirect costs generated along the project’s life cycle, business benefits and social benefits for the whole community, opportunities for synergetic resources exploitation (e.g. geothermal energy use) and risks induced by sectorial development pattern(e.g. groundwater damage). In conclusion, these main criteria of coast, benefit, opportunity, and risk are useful for decision makers in terms of planning urban subsurface projects in a sustainable way. At the end, a multi-criteria decision-making process will be demonstrated, in order to guide strategic development and policy making.

MENTAL HOSPITAL IN TIRANA

THE CASE OF DEVELOPING HEALTH FACILITIES IN THE PARK OF FARKA Student: Supervisor:

Keti Hoxha Artan Raça

Our living environment directly or indirectly affects our mental well-being, and sometimes it damages while, at other times, it cures. When this environment is harmful and in a degraded state, it can lead to a mental disorder.

The close connection between environment and psychology is quite relevant in a mental hospital. Throughout the history of mental institutions, there has been a lot of experimenting in terms of architecture, trying to find the perfect type of hospital, but mostly all of the models were a failure. The biggest mistake of architects dealing with healthcare centers is focus on the wrong priority: they mainly focus | 230

on the project of the building housing the staff and put the patients second. It is important to project a building catering to all users’ needs but the first aim is that of understanding how a patient feels, what he psychologically and emotionally needs. Before designing a mental hospital, it is necessary to understand how its users perceive space. There are two terms of space: the geographic space, without a center and the personal space, with the human at its center. This is an imaginary space, and it defines personal and interpersonal interactions between other human beings. People with mental disorders have a personal space with a

bigger ratio, which means that they are more sensitive towards contact with other people. This ratio defines the dimensions of the spaces and functions. The most important part of this mental hospital is the inner garden, designed as a Japanese healing garden where every function and service develops around this concept. This space is necessary for the healing process of the patients and for their sensory system, mainly for orientation. This inner space aids the development of their rational side, with the greenery and the view to of the lake and mountains. This space also helps the staff visually control their patients. The mental hospital is

situated in Farka, a rural area of Tirana. It offers a very relaxing panorama which combines the mountains and the lake of Farka, where the patients’ rooms are situated. This area offers the patients a sense of not being isolated, due to the fact that there is a presence of a community and they can partake in the activities organized by this hospital. The building is treated with concrete material and wood, with this latter one is used only in the circular corridor connecting all the volumes. Mixed with greenery and other natural elements, the building gives a sense of being in a calm, inviting and relaxing place, the perfect place to heal.

NEW ART EXHIBITION CENTER Student: Supervisor:

Klaudja Cenomeri Branko Belacevic

Looking at the education’s situation in our country and considering its history, we can conclude that post-communist teaching, particularly the art branch, has gone through many changes in seeking to fit to new standards that apply to all the countries around the world. Unfortunately, these changes are still small compared to the techniques used around the world, which are tailored to the specific institutions. Art has played an important role in enriching people’s lives and this has led to an increased interest in this specific field.

This project proposal is about the construction of an art school, a space thought to collect all these initiatives and promote them in an environment that is designed to suit their requirements in accordance with the development standards of today’s times. The objective of this research is to study the development of educational institutions and in particular, art schools, and, on a theoretical basis, create a development model that, based on the philosophy of Japanese architecture, may be applicable in Albania. This space should serve as a stimulus not only for those studying in these environments, but | 232

also for all those who love art and wish to become participants by giving something of themselves. This concept leads to a new perception of architectural space, art schools and universities. This reality is very dynamic and constantly changing. For this reason, another objective of this study is the creation of an environment that, thanks to the architectural language, can express the dynamism of rapid changes and adapt in time and space.

An art school includes a variety of faculties because the inspiration for making art does not depend from one single factor but from the combination of many elements. In this regards, the facilities that will include this project will have no limits and will be combined in a way which will facilitate this interaction. Consequently, of special importance in the campus’ design was the space dedicated to facilitating the interaction and contact between the different disciplines. This project aims at becoming part of the dynamism characterizing our modern times, the combination of different disciplines in one space, and the movement of people in them.

UNVERSITY LIBRARY

THE CASE OF NEW LIBRARY IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Klodian Bala Dorina Papa

The main goal of this project is the treatment of the design process of a library, specifically, the interaction between form and function in acquiring a particular product. There are many different ways of realizing such a project but, considering the fact that this is a university library, and the entire area is surrounded by universities and dormitories, this building fits very well in the selected location.

The area selected for this project is located in Tirana, close to “Elbasani” street. The area is outside the city’s ring road but is accessible through public and pedestrian transport. The area is also frequented from a lot of college students since this location is also close to the Qyteti Studenti. The designed building will consist of two 2-3 story buildings that communicate with each other through a glass-covered tunnel. Due to its function | 234

this building was designed to have partial areas that continuously communicate with the outside. The first contact with the library will be the entrance hall where users can have all the necessary information about the offered services. The library will also offer services such as an auditorium, a cinema, an art gallery, and electronic labs.

Las but not least, it is important to highlight that this library will serve as a bridge between other faculties and everything else around it. It was designed in order for the students to have a pleasant place where to study, search, and navigate the internet as well as a place where they can pleasantly pass their free time. Precisely for these reasons, it was decided that this facility will provide all these services which relate to one another and interact in a single system.

SELF-EFFICENT RESIDENTIAL COMPLEX BUILDING FOR A NEW CULTURE OF SUSTAINIBILITY Student: Supervisor:

Lorena Bajollari Artan Raça

The focus of this thesis is the design of a self-sufficient complex residential building, for a new culture of sustainability.

People should be aware of the manner and extent of use of the basic resources, in order to have as much fresh air, green public spaces, and a better quality of life. All these needs lead us to search for a new concept which will make our city more sustainable, more beautiful, and more livable. Contemporary architecture is facing everyday life’s problems including social, economic, political, technical, and formal ones. Architecture needs to understand the real needs of a society, the changing aspirations that go beyond aesthetics, in order to comply with basic issues like cultural contribution, usage values, cost effectiveness and issues, and the creation of an easier life for its citizens.

The research related to sustainable architecture is a small contribution to the development of an architectural vocabulary which discovers the art of environmental control by manipulating the shape and fabric of the building. This is part of a global tradition, and art is an integral part of doing architecture.

The selection of this topic for the development of a new model of urban living in Tirana came as a need to reflect on the current architectural situation of residential complexes. Beyond architecture’s language of creating beauty, there is need for our society to go towards a more sustainable future. This project developed a range of strategies by designing an | 236

energy-efficient residential complex, responding to the climatic conditions and to the local tradition of construction. The design of residential complexes which goes beyond meeting basic needs is a feature of a new urban and social dimension.

The area selected for the location, is a former industrial area, which lies along the “Kavaja” street and, on the south-western part, is characterized by a combination of commercial and residential areas. The geometric shape of the residential complex volume is conceived as two blocks in a U-shape with a green plaza where residents have more privacy. The outside terrain systemization follows the concept of the relationship of volume in order to create a social interaction. The idea is to increase the environmental quality of the social relations, through expressive architecture in terms of volume, materials and colors. Also, the concept of this volume’s shape is the production of a compact block in order to have energy efficiency sources for all the apartments.

In conclusion, the final product of this project aims to show that besides the numerous aspects of sustainable architecture, energy efficiency is a fundamental element in today’s building. More than a solution to problems, it is a step to create wider public awareness, because if these aspects of sustainable architecture were recognized elsewhere and could be applied in other cases as well, positive effects, in many respects, would be considerable.

ARCHITECTURE AND URBAN DENSIFICATION OF KINOSTUDIO AREA Student: Supervisor:

Lorena Xhaxho Antonino Di Raimo

Artistic, social “interventions” and developments are aspects that are rapidly growing in importance in tandem to the evolution of a society, and this greatly affects the economic and social evolution of Albania. It is obvious that this growth has great potential for the present and near future of the country.

The proposal of having long-term profits in this kind of city intervention is needed because it leads to the social and cultural development of our country. Tirana, Albania’s capital, is one of the main cities in | 238

Albania with spaces and opportunities for art and culture to take place and thrive.

The organization of such events is usually connected to institutions like schools, universities or academies. Tirana is a radial city, which means that the activities progressively densify towards the center of the city, while the suburbs have less artistic and cultural activities, although one may find some artistic venues in this area as well. Their existence means that Tirana has the potential of developing these kinds of poles not only in its cen-

ter. Having buildings, in which a comfortable space is provided where people can meet each other, and learn through entertaining activities, and where spaces are created in order to encourage interaction and connection between people, is crucial in a nation’s capital. These are the targets that must be reached and the reason for this kind of project is being implemented and developed in a situation like that of Tirana. Questions like the location of this project and the selection of an area over another naturally arises. The proj-

ect site is the ex-Kinostudio “Shqiperia e Re” an area in Tirana which is historically important for its citizens, but also carries great potential development. It is also an area that was active, during communism and which currently needs requalification so it can create another potential artistic venue/center in the city through the usage of existing buildings. This re-usage refers to not only leaving them abandoned but re-qualifying them through functions and activities that will happen in them.

LOW COST HOUSING AND INTEGRATED COMMUNITY CENTER/INVISIBLE PEOPLE Student: Supervisor:

Mamica Burda Elvan Dajko

This Master Thesis is based on the belief that, nowadays, architects should be responsible and active in terms of everyday life challenges and, especially, in giving complex choices and solutions for the future thus preventing crises. Therefore, the student has chosen to investigate and act influenced by the Balkan and Albanian social situations, thus deciding to be among the kind of architects and citizens whose contribution is based on local society dynamics. The topic is the kind of experience that encompasses all the different steps – from the conceptual one (problem detector and design response) | 240

to the construction phase and more. The first research part analyzes the poorest part of the Albanian population which only theoretically has its rights guaranteed from the constitution but, in reality, has no access to basic food, accommodation or education. Architecture should take care once more of the human living space, as a place of freedom, complex solutions and opportunities, in order not to have “second-hand humans”. Most of these situations can be found in informal settlements - where self-organizing dynamics rule. Exploring the Albanian situation, specifically Tirana, during site-see-

ing visits, has demonstrated that there exist many problems to be addressed but the community with the greatest accommodation, social, economic problems is the Roma community. How can the entire system (platform) work? The general concepts and principals are: 1-spatial and social in; 2-diversification, cooperative & continuity and; 3-particularization and diversification (A sustainable program is necessary and these communities spread around the cities must be self- sufficient but also integrated with other surrounding parts. Living, working (collecting and selling), enjoying, education are cohesive

parts of the same strategy. A simple shelter will never upgrade their situation. The participation of this community’s members in the realization of the project is the key to continuity.)What can be a good low-cost, smart design appropriate in this case? Self-building and progressive change are the main concepts. There will be (in the realization part) different steps according to people working on it, family, financial resources etc. Therefore, the steps of development may be concentrated on service centers and surrounding houses.

MIXED USE HOUSING

NEW CONCEPT FOR MIXED USE COMPLEX Student: Supervisor:

Neada Bullaj Artan Raça

The focus of this thesis was mixed-use housing intended and explained as a multi-functional complex.

This complex includs activities and functions of various requirements in order to meet the everyday needs of individuals and, also improve living. This improvement was observed in the way in which architecture combines functions, and the activities that will be put together. The area selected to implement the idea and the project, was a former industrial area under construction. The idea was to establish a new architecture, which would serve as an example to follow for new facilities that can be built, but also as an example to those already built.

In these regards, the similarly-featured areas, close to one another, took as reference the space around it.

The utilized logic was that of buildings | 242

and urban settlements based on the creation of squares between facilities, common parking and underground, enabling the emergence of a new public space, which is lacking in this space. Not wanting to create a closed space that is isolated from the rest of the city, one of the main features of the project relates precisely to the concept of the ruptured cracks and corners, with the idea of an explosive and penetrating ‘wall’ for, both residents and visitors. These cracks continue in the architecture’s facade as well.

The functions that were implemented in the final product were the most basic: apartments, commercial areas, offices and hotels. All these relate to each other and interact in a single system, having an internal courtyard, on the ground floors of which social environments and public spaces are situated.

MUSEUM OF ART & ARCHITECTURE THE NEW IDENTITY FOR TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Olisa Foto Artan Raça

This thesis treats the Museum of Art and Architecture. This building is a social institution that seeks its own cultural context. The existence of such a structure is a necessity for the further development of culture, art and cultural heritage, not only for Tirana, but also for Albania, bearing all the standards of such institutions today. Ideally, the museum will reflect our socio-cultural and artistic values as well as their transmission to future generations.

The focus of this research is the current situation of cultural institutions, in particular museums, in Tirana by identifying them, reflecting the elements that should be evaluated in terms of these objects and the problems they carry today. Another important point is also their history, from the first forms until nowadays, the components of a museum with their specific characteristics and key functions that they should carry, the lighting project, and used materials.

The area for the location of the Art and Architecture Museum is positioned between the “Kavaja” street and “George Fishta” boulevard. The context in which | 244

the museum will be located is quite complex, with a series of elements integrated with each other. A peculiarity of the contexts is the building typologies. They can be classified into four categories: former industrial areas, residential complexes areas, private residences areas and the commercial areas. The museum is an object designed in order to merge with the context and the objects around it, creating the impression that it has always been there. The object was designed upon the concept of fragmentation in some parts, where each part is influenced by the diverse and complex context. One of the solutions is the harmonization of extreme altimetry that exists in the context.

This museum does not only affect the area in which it is positioned, but contributes to improve the lifestyle of its surrounding context. The new object will reflect an iconic architecture, which will seem as though it has always been part of the context in which it lies, and will leave identifiable traces and create a potential developments.

COMMUNITY CENTER Student: Supervisor:

Olti Shabani Krist Andoni

This project aims at creating a transitional Community Center. Tirana’s quickly-growing extension is causing the development of suburban areas, thus making it a city with more than one development pole.

The population’s distribution comes as a result of the regional affiliations. This division has led to some cohabitation advantages in terms of aid or cooperation.

However, these communities need more | 246

opportunities and services for a better life. These areas contain many social, cultural and economic problems that increase the necessity for the presence of a community center.

The area where the project will take place is located in a territory between the municipality of Farka, Dajti and the city of Tirana, exactly on the south of the former tractors factory and is separat-

ed from it by the Lana River. The Farka Lake is located in the southern part of this area.

This project consisted in creating a transitional Community Center, which will accommodate, employ, train and entertain a good portion of the surrounding community. The center will be treated as a campus where each of the services will be offered in separate buildings. In the northern part of the center, the gym, the administration offices, the restaurant and mini football fields will be located. The facade of the building will be covered by glass and vertical wooden laths will

be placed on the outside to further emphasize the importance of the natural element in the architecture of the center.

These laths will also serve as brisolei for shade.

The final product of this thesis is the design of a stable community center with low-maintenance costs which, in most cases, are financed by the state. Fluidity and access to the center are important elements in the design of these centers as all services must be accessible by persons with disabilities.

FLEXIBILITY AS A SOCIAL CONDENSER Student: Supervisor:

Renis Batalli Branko Belacevic, Antonino Di Raimo

Unlike many thesis proposals, this project did not start with a known function or location. Everything came from a thorough analysis done of the parasitic architecture constructed in Tirana after the ‘90s.

The aim of this project is to create a new style of building based on what already happened, and attempt to understand what might happen in the future, and create, at this time, the conditions that will ensure that changes that might happen will not create chaotic situations but will coexist harmoniously with the city.

The city’s buildings changed and they went through a process that has many things in common with the theories produced by movements like Metabolism or Megastructures, where form and function are not fixed, and with the overlapping of program layers and flexible activities that can be found in the Social Condenser theories.

The combinations of the research’s results created a Hybrid building in terms of typology and function. Adapting to the context was easy since the proj| 248

ect started by analyzing it. The area chosen for the location of the building was a postindustrial empty space located in at the entrance of the city.

The proposed building was a composition of prefab modules that can be replaced and interact with the user.

The outward immobile spaces do not move but the space inside them can be transformed to accommodate different functions. The public spaces are placed on different layers and with a different scale of privacy. The facility also has a vertical communication and a public promenade.

The program is a mix of activities (housing, offices, commercial, cultural, sports, etc.) that complement each other and functions that have their own specific area. Connections happen through the public spaces, whereas access to the ground floor is possible through a park.

The final product of this design process would give the city a new model with costs savings, economic revolution, new building techniques, active users and a new way of pleasantly passing the time.

HIGH COURT NEW FUNCTIONS FOR THE CITY OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Samaela Lala Branko Belacevic

Public buildings, specifically court buildings, represent unique and interesting type of construction. On one hand, for a large part of the society they represent a point of contact with the government, especially the judiciary branch, which in the eyes of the public, in its concrete form of court facilities has great symbolic value in terms of representing justice and equality among the various members of society.

Conceived and typically designed as “sorting machines,” courts models have a very clear and distinct circulation. These buildings have a“strong program” which means that everything is built following strong rules. Throughout the Western world, courts are experiencing a quiet revolution. Neoclassical court buildings that are made of stone reflect the au| 250

thority and majesty of the law but, nowadays, they are being replaced by sleek modern buildings of glass and steel, providing comfortable office environments, efficient services and new ways of representing justice. Technology is transforming the work of the courts. While the courts are becoming more open and accessible, they are also simultaneously becoming more closed, with safety barriers and traffic isolation zones., As in any other country, even in Albania, courts are a key element to in enabling a state of law to function well. The objective of this project, as the court building itself, was to not adversely affect the human psyche. In this environment, many issues are judged and, in principle, the idea of judgment, especially in the Albanian mentality, is

very heavy and associations with it create a fear of judgment and guilt. The challenge of this project was the combination of all these elements, starting from actual principles to psychologically-created feelings. But what was the project’s primary aim. In terms of civil architecture, offer an architectural object that reflects the operation of the building as an instrument of justice for the state, while also providing a greater amount of natural light, minimal risk in terms of security and public safety within the premises, effective technology and maximally-used facilities, among other things.

The main goal of this project is to show that architecture influences the human senses. In addition, such an object could possibly alter people’s perceptions and

their fear toward such institutions. The importance of a healthy society is the main idea on which this project was is based.

This project offers a rich program for the building along with a program for the public’s use. It is a building dedicated to the entire system of justice, transparency, security rooms, which will be of a high standard, especially in terms of the elements a judge needs to build more transparent a trials within the norms of security levels. Technologies, materials, colors are used in such a way that buildings maintain its authoritarian image (which establishes justice), while at the same time inviting the public to interact and cooperate with it.

EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION

NEW AUXILIARY FUNCTIONS FOR TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Sanjola Mahmutaj Artan Raça

This thesis is about the education and societal integration of children with special skills. This project was focused on children with Down syndrome who find themselves less included in formal education. Formal education consists of learning ranging from pre-school to higher studies. Some daily problems that accompany children with disabilities living in Albanian cities are the lack of appropriate spaces for education, the existence of the discrimination phenomenon and rejection (schools, courses, sports), lack of suitable premises for talent development, difficulties in employment, etc.

The current situation of children with disabilities and the state of relevant institutions in our country was a great impetus for the realization this project. The aim was to offer these children the opportunity of education in optimal conditions. The project was located near Tirana’s artificial lake, the southern part of it. The area is free of buildings and located in the administrative territory of the Municipality of Tirana. Nature’s shapes have always led to the perfection of architectural expressions of space. Technology’s development during recent decades has created an even stronger connection between the | 252

architect and nature. Recently, organic forms of architectural creations have reached their perfection through the application of parametric design software.

Nature was the primary inspiration for this project.

This project aims at overcoming barriers and creating visual cracks that will allow the access of light at certain angles, thus bringing nature inside the facility.

The building lies on three levels connected through the main object which will be transversally positioned referring to the other three. In addition to the collection and distribution of flows, the main object consists of two floors. Each function has been studied with precision in order to provide necessary comfort to people with different skills. The crystal facades are treated in such a way as to enable the introduction of direct and indirect natural lighting, and make it more favorable towards the establishment of visual contact with the green nature. The final product of this study search aims at being a dynamic space, with educational and social functions, which is very close to nature and the green areas that Tirana’s Lake Park offers.

HOTEL IN BERAT

HOTEL FOR SUPPORT OF TURISM IN CITY OF BERAT Student: Supervisor:

Smeralda Lami Krist Andoni

Undoubtedly, we can say that the city of Berat is a treasure of our traditional architecture. Like a treasure deserves to be monitored and preserved, the city of Berat calls for special attention. Without the past, there can be no future. Consequently, the architecture of our country should feature all the stages through which it has passed.

The inspiration for this project was the city of Berat and the concept began precisely with this city in mind. The intervention consisted in of the creation of objects with reduced dimensions which will have hotel room functions but that will resemble individual homes. The houses were conceptualized as using the main elements that characterize a traditional Berat house’s. Some of these elements are: quadratic forms, wooden windows, tiled roof, porch and chimney. By joining these elements, the new modules were formed, representing the heart of the home in Be| 254

rat. In order to preserve the form of a square, and roofs, a 45° rotation of the building was carried out. This intervention served as a contrast to the traditional architecture, as a new and interesting perspective. These modules were inspired by the traditional architecture of Berat. To create a variety of hotel rooms, several modules with different specifications were created. Family rooms, suites, and collective rooms were some of the proposed modules. These modules were designed as independent, creating a greater freedom for the hotel’s visitors and connected by joint facilities.

The facilities created on the island will serve the hotel and its visitors.

New functions will also be implemented in the island in order to better serve the city of Berat. The final product of this thesis seeks to boost the growth of tourism in the city of Berat, thus creating new jobs and influencing its growth.

ADAPTION OF TRADITIONAL ALBANIAN LIVINGIN A NEW RESIDENTIAL TYPOLOGY OF 21 CENTRY Student: Supervisor:

Silvi Balli Elvan Dajko

This thesis presents a survey on space utilization in the housing environment. It represents an attempt to identify the problems that exist during a multiyear period of use regarding a specific case. It stresses the positive and negative phenomena that influence the quality of housing and analyzes the level and type of activity of residents and people from outside, from the standpoint of such elements as: the method of forming the operation, accessibility, visibility, etc. The issue of the acquisition of a space which belongs to residents in studied facilities, currently is characterized by: a crazy pace of life, mobility, a change in style and the workplace, housing, different ways of spending leisure. Unlimited possibilities of communication, the flow of capital, information, services like different activities influence our lives. Cultural and demographic factors, social factors, economic factors, spatial factors are all factors that influence the research base for the project’s implementation.

The area selected for the development of this project is located in a very strategic place, the extension along the boulevard of Tirana. Tirana’s Urban | 256

Plan is very well conceived and includes urban elements like the residential area along both sides of the Tirana River. The area where the designed object will be placed is part of these residential bands, exactly in to the north of the river, but without direct access to it. This area is very well served by main and secondary roads axes defined according to the master plan. The development of the project will be fully adapted to the contour of the area.

There will be no standard residential modules for all the floors. They will vary according to the typology and the residents’ number. Although in an urban environment the project takes the character of a residential block, each module will have its own private space creating individuality- typically a feature of a private villa - and the composition involving the other modules will enable the creation of similar semi private spaces serving the respective holders. The final product of this design process tried to address the adaptation of traditional Albanian living into a new residential typology of the XXI century.

Architecture & Urban Design 2013 - 2014 Aldo Miho...................................................................260

Desian Dyrmishi.........................................................380

Gerdi Papa................................................................402

Nadina Sula...............................................................422

”LOW RISE, HIGH DENSE HOUSING”

“ALBANIAN REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT THROUGHT TRADITIONAL SPIRITUAL CULTURE”

“INTERACTIVITY AS AN ARCHITECTURAL DIMENSION”

“THE CITY OF CHILDREN”

Amanda Meço...........................................................262

Egla Harxhi.................................................................382

Gidian Hajdëraj........................................................404

Ona Zenelaj...............................................................424

“DORMITORY - CASE OF STUDENT HOUSE”

“ECOLOGY RESEARCH CENTER”

“INNOVATIVE HOUSING”

“NATURAL COMMERCIAL CENTER”

Andi Kohila.................................................................264

Egzon Pllana...............................................................384

Gjinovefa Xinxo.........................................................406

Qendrim Gashi..........................................................426

“INTERNATIONAL CULTURE CENTER”

“MULTIFUNCTIONAL AND CULTURAL BUILDING”

“SENIOR HOUSING”

“AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY - RAHOVEC”

Anduena Dragovi......................................................266

Eljana Zenaj................................................................386

Gleidis Misja..............................................................408

Renisa Muka...............................................................428

“RESTAURATION OF CULTURAL MONUMENT KAFJA E MADHE - SHKODER”

“THE TRINOME - CHILDREN, NATURE & ARCHITECTURE”

“SUSTAINABLE HEALTH CARE ARCHITECTURE MOTHER TERESA HOSPITAL CENTER”

“DAJTI INSTITUTION OF CONTEMPORARY ART”

Aristea Dinaku............................................................368

Emel Petërçi................................................................388

Irma Nazari................................................................410

Romir Mazari..............................................................430

“FASHION DISTRICT”

“ALBANIA MOSQUE”

“MUSEUM OF NATURAL CENTER”

“PROGRESSIVE CITY VS. CONSERVING NATURE”

Armando Prelezi........................................................370

Enia Salillari...............................................................390

Joli Kika......................................................................412

Sheila Hasani.............................................................432

“RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTURE”

“MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY”

”URBAN FARMING”

“BIODIVERSITY RESEARCH CENTER”

Alexander Jushi.........................................................372

Eriketa Rrenjollari......................................................392

Jona Qirici..................................................................414

Sonila Brahollari........................................................434

“MUSEUM OF SPAÇ”

“CITY OF ARCHITECTURE”

“S.E.C. - SOCIAL ECOLOGICAL CENTER”

“RED KNOT - MULTIMEDIA AS A STRATEGY FOR SOCIAL CHANGE”

Blerti Bajo...................................................................374

Ermal Hoxha...............................................................394

Jurgen Turkeshi...........................................................416

“MUSEUM OF ALBANIA ARCHITECTURE”

“INDUSTRIAL AGRO-PUNTURE”

“YOUTH CENTER”

Dea Buza....................................................................376 “[robot]ARCHITECTURE”

Figali Dardhaj............................................................396

Klajdi Dinellari...........................................................418

“INDUSTRIAL AGRO-PUNTURE”

“SKI RESORT”

Dean Hado.................................................................378

Genc Tufi.....................................................................400

Klevis Bregu................................................................420

“AUTO MOBILITY”

“SDX DEEPER VALUES FOR TIRANA”

“SPA - SENSITIVE CENTER”

| 258

LOW RISE, HIGH DENSE HOUSING THE CASE OF KORÇA CITY Student: Supervisor:

Aldo Miho Elvan Dajko

The work that was presented in this project deals with designing and developing a brand new residential typology in Korca. The offered model contains a mix of functions and traditions, associated with design and maintenance. This project reflects the current urban and architectural developments. The transition that Korca, and Albania in general, have been through in the construction field has led this research towards a deeper reflection. What we have obviously seen in these last years is a situation in which everyone intents to build for minority interests, by not maintaining the tradition | 260

of the city. This, of course has brought the total destruction and desolation of it. Studying the methods of construction and the characteristic typologies of the city, mixing them with the contemporary design and ideas of “low- rise high-density housing” has brought the creation of a new typology of building that leads to the preservation of Korca’s identity and traditions and, of course, the composition of a new idea. This topic tries to establish a new way of treatment and conception of public, private and semi-private spaces.

DORMITORY

CASE OF STUDENT HOUSE Student: Supervisor:

Amanda Meço Loris Rossi

The latest researches indicated the necessity for more dormitories, otherwise referred to as “home away home”.

This necessity keeps growing proportionally with the growing number of students, which come from different cities of our country. This is why the main goal of this project is to build a decent dormitory center for students with a great number of offered services, which would make them feel at home.

The place where the building will be located is an area close to “Elbasani” street, occupied mostly by a parking lot and two considerably small car washes on its west side, facing the “Gjeneral Nikols” street. These structures around the area are not architecturally and historically relevant and are used for retail activities. Other important aspects related to the site are a public valley leading to the national park, and the presence of nearby historical buildings like the Economic Faculty, History and Geography Faculty, | 262

Geology and Minier Faculty, Cemetery of Martyrs, Zyber Hallulli Orphanage, Foreing Language High School and the US Embassy Block.

This design process involved an interweaving of city and ecology, nature’s intervention in the city and its architecture.

In this regard, the idea of creating an architecture that is related with the city and nature was generated. The shape is a strip made up of five buildings. Each of the residences would be unique as a “house”. The five separate buildings will be connected through a corridor with each-other and will function as one.

The final product of this project is a building that could become a potential collection of different spaces in which the students can discover new places. All of the spaces must be connected to each other just as they are in a real city and one can easily move from a one room to a different one.

INTERNATIONAL CULTURE CENTER

NEW FUNCTIONS FOR THE PYRAMID MONUMENT IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Andi Kohila Endri Marku

The debates between different social categories including politicians, youth, and Tirana’s citizens about the demolition of “The Pyramid” are well known to every one of us. The idea of transforming the area around “The Pyramid” into a Multifunctional Centre is the topic of this thesis proposal. The project is located in this area because there is a considerable amount of virgin green area, which perfectly allows the movement of masses of people and offers many opportunities for other daily activi| 264

ties.

The new functions chosen in the thesis intend to return this iconic building to Tirana’s citizens, with daily activities where they can easily find themselves.

These functions are exactly what will return the vitality of this area and give the opportunity, especially to young people, to interact and socialize with each other. This project is about the creation of a new opportunity, a new perspective, which will be accessible to anyone who is willing to spend some spare time in

an effective manner, further developing their talents and, why not, profit some new knowledge. Special attention is paid to the creation of new sports areas, as an important element of functioning and supporting the youth, by providing modern services. The pyramid has to be preserved as it is but will be stripped of its real functions at the ground level. All the new functions will be activated below the ground level. This way, people’s experiences will serve the dual role of freedom and contribution in awakening collective

memory. Several openings will follow the Pyramid’s silhouette in such a way as to distribute natural light underground. By positioning all functions underground, the openings should be very exposed to the public. The main entrance was proposed to be located inside the pyramid, serving as a grand hall which will invite people to the underground level. This project is about revitalizing this monument and giving it a new identity while preserving it at the same time.

RESTAURATION OF CULTURAL MONUMENT [KAFJA E MADHE, SHKODER] Student: Supervisor:

Anduena Dragovi Dorina Papa

This diploma thesis comes as a result of an urgent need for the restoration and conservation of cultural heritage in Albania.

The part of the project dealing with restoration is divided into several steps that are going to be analyzed in terms of a culturally-important building in Shkoder, which is Kafja e Madhe. This is a first category monument, in a state of progressive degradation. Located in the city centre, the building possesses all the problems | 266

of this category’s structures which have been left in a degraded sate in most Albanian cities.

After several theoretical studies of the typology of architectonic restoration, conservative restoration was selected as a result of the direct relationship with the urban context. Considering that the building is one of several buildings designed by Kole Idromeno, the architect of the city, the task was doubly important.

Before offering a final solution, it was necessary to have a detailed information of the building in relation to the city, a photographic survey (in order to have evidence of the state of degradation and monitor this state), the historical research, the identification of degradation inside and outside the building and the final intervention.

In a particular position like the city centre, this building becomes an added val-

ue. The aim of this restoration and conservation project is to give back to the city one of the most frequented spaces in its best conditions.

In order to have a bigger impact in terms of bringing the building to the center of attention, again, an artistic performance was planned and organized.

FASHION DISTRICT

NEW APPROACH FOR THE CITY OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor: L

Aristea Dinaku Ledian Bregasi

The development and future of the cities in which we live, is one of the most important themes of this thesis. Management and orientation of human resources is one of the main spheres defining our future. As a way of understanding the phenomenon of change in society, this research started by presenting philosophical, social and architectonic terms and the steps, instruments and manners that could make it happen. To study and better adapt this societal phenomenon to our context, the thesis summarized many facts that have changed the way in which cities | 268

operate. The rapid development, unabsorbed by society, has caused many side effects to the management of economy, culture and dynamic cities. Aspects, which now lack on life standard in our cities are the vision for the future. This study treats art (culture) as an instrument of social change, an analysis of actual resources and a pre-adaptation with the multimedia typology. For effecting change, it is important that a design process create a strong emotional and physical connection with the city, context and society.

RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTURE

NEW HOUSING CONCEPT IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Armando Prelezi Endri Marku

The main goal of this study is a residential project conceptualized as a therapeutic project, which aims at influencing the strategic urban development and surrounding area of Tirana. The new project will attempt to become a new epicenter, generating movement and energy, and helping us improve our living conditions. It also functions as a mechanism that facilitates pedestrian and vehicular circulation.

This project came as a product of a detailed study on a micro and macro level, providing solutions for a problem| 270

atic area and offering a natural system in the middle of an “urban jungle�. It will become a reference point for the citizens and an important economic pole for the city, since the inside offers the opportunity of numerous investments in various economic fields. Furthermore, it is a project, which enhances the green surfaces and links important joints with the proposed arteries, in order to relieve vehicular circulation. It also represents a potential opportunity of developing these axes into the main joints of the city.

MUSEUM OF SPAÇ

FROM PRISON IN THE WAY TO TRANSFORM IN CATALIZATOR FOR THE REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AREA - THE CASE OF SPAÇ Student: Supervisor:

Alexander Jushi Endri Marku

History has its witnesses. For Spac, human witnesses are endless, together with their sacrifices, pain and suffers. This part of our history, should not remain just a mosaic of stories from the people that suffered. This museum shall shed some light and strengthen the truth with nuances of history, art, philosophy and architecture.

This gives us the opportunity to travel as close as possible to the reality of that time in our history. Therefore the concept of the project has as aim to intertwine the audience with the history and sufferance of people.

Starting from the character of the museum, in this case we are dealing with a historical museum. In addition, it is worth mentioning the fact that this intervention is of restaurateur character. Therefore, pre| 272

serves and improves existing structures, but also adds new ones.

The concept of the object has been based on the chronology of situations that have occurred in Spac, as well as tries to involve a part of the communist dictatorship of our country. The aim of the project in itself is to try and represent as best as possible this history, by making the audience sometimes a spectator and others directly involved. I have tried in this way to show some of the most dark parts of our history.

Referring to the context and history I have tried to translate it into architecture. ... horror, terror, itineraries, suffers, ruins, mine galleries which will follow the project until the end, trying to transform a terrible past into a tail for the future.

MUSEUM OF ALBANIA ARCHITECTURE

NEW INTERUPTION IN THE CENTER SQUARE OF TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Blerti Bajo Endri Marku

This design project passed through several, closely-connected phases. In the end, these phases enabled the provision of solutions to many research questions. This thesis focuses on cultural heritage, which is one of the most controversial topics in Albania as a result of the irresponsibility of many institutions and individuals. This design process focuses on the construction of a building that could hold a museum, able to preserve objects of architectural heritage. The created space is one which on one hand would protect and pass down to generations the

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architectural values of Albania and Tirana and the values of Tirana while, on the other hand, generating space for visitors and residents to find pieces of architecture in every environment. The project is a continuation and a mixture of architecture from the Hellenistic period until now.

The project requires space for activities and interaction which creates a sense of freedom. This work proposes an alternative to what might be considered the general attitude of the past few years, where buildings in historic area meant accepting a nostalgic architecture.

robotArchitecture.

IMPLEMENTATION OF ROBOT IN THE CENTER FOR RAPID INTERVENTION IN THE CASE OF NATURAL DISASTER SHKODER/AL Student: Supervisor:

Dea Buza Antonino Di Raimo

This thesis started with the aim of providing a solution for a very salient issue in Albania, specifically flood risk, through the use of experimental and innovative solutions. The objective was firstly understanding the way that flooding cases have occurred and may increase in the future due to the consequences of global warming. The author declared in the hypothesis that: “The author believes that it is possible to integrate robot architecture in creating a centre for rapid disaster intervention in Albania which goes beyond the fact of being a utopic project but also economically feasible.�

This issue was answered through| 276

out the thesis and a conclusion was achieved. Given the complexity of the research, a tailor-made methodology was chosen which integrated feedback from different sources.

The involvement of Information Technology and the exploration for Robot Architecture is a key feature of the thesis.

The research concludes with the design of a centre for rapid intervention in case of flooding in the area of Velipoja, Shkodra in northwestern Albania. Given the peculiar conditions of the area, where there is an aggregation of different elements such as urban settlements, touristic infrastructure, RAMSAR site and the delta of

River BUNA, the author decided to expand the functions that a typical rapid intervention centre would include. Thus the designed centre is self-efficient in terms of energy as well as it establishes a very important connection as a receiver of information from different aspects as well as includes facilities to provide in cases of disasters in the area. The choice of materials is also very important and, consequently, several case studies were analyzed. There are three main conclusions to the thesis: 1-Due to global warming, the risk of natural disasters, in this case flooding, will increase in the future, thus measures need

to be taken. Exploring such issues through all the possible methodologies is relevant.

2-After the development of scenarios for Albania, the region of Shkodra and, specifically, Velipoja was identified as an appropriate site for the project, due also to their relevant landscape. The landscape rather than being considered as background has been involved in all its components.

3-The designed rapid intervention center incorporates several functions starting from data collection centers, to research centers, medical centers etc., and the robot plays a crucial role in the process.

AUTO MOBILITY Student: Supervisor:

Dean Hado Antonino Di Raimo

Since the turn of the century most modern Architecture has obtained its imagery from designers who are obsessed with machines. This trend can be explained through the fascination that Architects have with aircraft, spacecraft, and the automobile. The futuristic ideas that architects have today for producing architecture which resembles machines must go one step further. Experiences and emotions are becoming more important in the postmodern society.

The way in which this thesis is built is to demonstrate that with a single | 278

touch, we can try to solve more than one problem affecting our society. This thesis started by closely considering car racing, and developed into a more complex project. Through a single experimental project, this thesis opts to turn one of the most hidden and yet potential empty areas of Tirana into a blossoming focal points, both socially and economically, by designing a facility for the development of high - performance automobiles. The goal of this facility is to allow a place where the automobile will start as a concept, and be taken to its race in a ready

prototype form. This Research Centre facility will also try to minimize the damage of pollution and accidents by presenting society with the so-called “Car of the Future”. This is the autonomous electric/ hydrogen vehicle, which presents the next decade’s significant challenge for artificial intelligence and control theory.

The act of driving is best modeled as a series of sequential decisions made with occasional feedback from the environment. Reinforcement learning is one method whereby the agent successively improves control policies through expe-

rience.

The system will use vision data fused with simulated laser range data to detect road markings. The vehicle will use a simulated global measurement sensor to guide it along proportional controllers.

These vehicles will firstly be tested in the Autodrome’s facilities. Meanwhile a car racing championship can be arranged once a year with autonomous cars alongside the highest class of open-wheeled auto racing in the world, Formula One Championship (F1).

ALBANIAN REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT

THROUGHOUT TRADITIONAL SPIRITUAL CULTURE Student: Supervisor:

Desian Dyrmishi Antonino Di Raimo

The main goal of this study is to propose and explain the regional development of Albania in terms of traditional spiritual culture. This project is a mean of valorizing the great potentials of the area and, furthermore, by creating a Bektashi architecture complex.

The aim of this thesis is to describe the region where this Bektashi complex will be implemented, explain the fundamentals of the Bektashi religion and how these two elements become key factors for this thesis proposal.

The selected location is situated in the City of Skrapar, in the Tomorr mountain, which nowadays is used as the destination for it’s the annual pilgrimage of the Bektashi community. The scope of this design proposal is to revalorize this area by implementing a new set of elements that will develop the area in an economic and cultural way. Mount Tomorr is one of the most focal points in the central south| 280

ern part of Albania because it has one of the three national parks of the area and is the most visited sites in the summer because of the annual Pilgrimage. This aim will be achieved by creating a Bektashi complex that is best suited to the way the believers think and the fundamentals of their religion.

The final purpose of this thesis is to create an architecture that is simultaneously monumental and modern. It intends to use technology in such a way that the impact of the building would be minimal. The structure should be perceived as an extension of the landscape, and should use local materials in a way that it blends with the mountain. This solution will come from nature, from the most basic of its form, the fractal. The building will seamlessly merge with the surrounding landscape, valorizing nature and the landscape of the chosen area.

ECOLOGY RESEARCH CENTER THE CASE OF BUILDING DEVELOPED IN THE INFORMAL AREAS IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Egla Harxhi Laura Pedata

The research for this Master’s thesis addresses the current ecological crisis in Tirana. This crisis is perceived as a result of global and local changes, not to mention the development of different environments, ecosystems, biosphere and technology as well as changes in social behavior.

The purpose of this thesis is to emphasize the role of a comprehensive ecological and systemic approach to design as an important step towards an efficient and effective functioning of the city and its network systems.

This is a top-down process which requires a large scale analysis to better understand the network connections and pinpoint areas of interference in network connections which imply the city as a | 282

whole. Concepts like ecology and synergy are important for this process because they supply the tools necessary for to comprehending this system of networks from which my concept and vision emanates.

A complex matrix of data is used as the main element and the result is a design which influences the position of ecology in the city. This thesis and research demonstrate a model of how this structure can be designed through ecological principles and improve the overall quality of life. Also, by using computerized tools, it is easier to comprehend all the data that are useful for the design process especially when dealing with ecology which has a wide range of complex relations.

MULTIFUNCTIONAL AND CULTURAL BUILDING

NEW FUNCTION FOR THE CASE OF THE CITY OF MITROVICA IN KOSOVA Student: Supervisor:

Egzon Pllana Ledian Bregasi

Today’s major challenge in third world cities is the creation of new bridges of communication, inter-ethnic dialogues and, certainly, the overcoming of the past, on the basis of which the present attempts to build a more enlightened and less challenging future. Mitrovica’s problems are mainly of a political and economic character; a main issue is the displacement of populations because of an inability to move from south into north. Generally, policies fail to ensure the safety of life.

Economic crises and the lack of space for citizens make it more difficult.

Although impossible at first glance, but | 284

pretty practical in reality, the author of this thesis has thought of the idea of creating collaborative bridges in cities with problems and conflicts. Therefore, a center like this more than being utopian is a manual that can be translated into an ideal example of approaching a city with many cultural and social gaps.

The Cultural Center, by integrating its functions, favors restoring identities in Mitrovica. Besides the enrichment of the functional bandage along the Ibar River, it also raises the important issue of the city center, but this time of an united city.

THE TRINOME - CHILDREN, NATURE, ARCHITECTURE THE CASE EX-INDUSTRIAL BUILDING IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Eljana Zenaj Loris Rossi

The main goal of this thesis is to develop the idea that architecture and urbanism are not to be split – that every house should be a tiny city and every city a large house, compact and polycentric, single and diverse, clear and complex, static and dynamic, contemporary and traditional; rooted as much in the classical as in the modern tradition.

The determination of form should be based upon configuring the relationships between opposites: open-closed, inside-outside, small-big, much- little, many-few. In this regard, this design process considered the unbroken relationships between these elements to be as equally important as the individual elements themselves.

The nature – childhood connection is becoming less pronounced from generation to generation. The term “nature” is often used to describe a variety | 286

of outdoor environments; therefore, the project’s idea was to consider adolescents’ real needs and not just the fun part of daily life. According to the current educational and psychological theories, certain conditions must be fulfilled, if children or adolescents are to have an education and achieve a successful integration in society.

Everyone needs stimulation, educational needs, food, warmth and good air. This abstract description should motivate all to help people in need and to make them part of this group. These children do not have any public service association. This project wanted to primarily help children who have social and economic needs. Therefore, creating a project called City of kids can stimulate this process and help these children in need become part of society.

ALBANIA MOSQUE

A PARAMETRIC DRIVEN STUDY, ABOUT AN ECLIPSED RELIGOUS BUILDING IN ALBANIA Student: Supervisor:

Emel PetÍrçi Antonino Di Raimo

Architecture is a record of human civilization, values, principles and concepts. Form (elements and relations) is one of the visual features of identity and self, on one hand, and expressive features of place and time (scientific and technical development), on the other hand.

This research focuses on the importance of patterns in Islamic architecture, and the possibility of investing in a new scientific method (Rhino Grasshopper and Processing programs) in creating parametric architecture using Islamic patterns

This research was divided into various sections. The first was a study on the typology of mosques around the world and in Albania, and determined some general characteristics of the mosque.

The second was a theoretical framework that first determined the importance of the generation of patterns in Islamic ar| 288

chitecture and then introduced Processing programs and Rhino, Grasshopper as an alternative new scientific method of generating patterns in order to produce the spiritual Islamic space.

The author has identified the importance of pattern in Islamic Architecture and showed how the generation of patterns has created a new 3-dimensional space for the Albanian Mosque. This research attempts to present the features of geometric patterns in Islam, to employ rule-sets for the generation of two and three dimensional- forms and to indicate the potential of the mathematics of symmetry and geometry.

The study focused on parametrically-defined geometrical shape of Islamic patterns in order to generate three-dimensional forms through parametric design.

MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY NEW FACILITY FOR TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Enia Salillari Loris Rossi

This thesis expresses the necessity and importance of having a photography museum and its impact on the cultural development of democratic life.

There are a few museums like this in Tirana, but this project aims to create a new type that not only involves artists but also those involved in the creative economy sphere. The space will enable the connection between different types of people, from various fields. thus including and encouraging everyone to become a part of the creative city. This concept is a departure from the traditional philosophy of creative city and creative class.

Many photographs can become | 290

documents, once they can document parts of our culture and history. In order to preserve our cultural heritage, these photographs need to be maintained and preserved and, most significantly, communicated; there would be no point in preserving something for no one to see.

Thus the photographs have to be stored in a proper way, a way that allows not only the preservation of the photographs, but the passage of knowledge to others through their communicative power.

Museums are the institutions store and showcase objects belonging to our history and culture. Museums play an enormous role on the transmission of

knowledge, once a good description of the objects, possibly contextualized in a specific time period, allows objects not to be simply objects but rather artifacts that are rich in information, knowledge, history and probably memories of others.

This Museum of photography will be located in the Scanderbeg square. Skanderbeg Square is the main plaza of Tirana, Albania, named in 1968 after the Albanian national hero Skanderbeg and lies in the main axis- Bulevardi Deshmoret e Kombit. This is a very good position, as it connects to surrounding cultural centers and different important buildings.

The choice was based on a need

to change in the current situation for a greater protection of historical and landscape values of the site. The second fundamental aim of the project was to unify the new intervention in an underground body. Therefore, this intervention would not change the idea of a square, because everything would be underground.

The main goal of this thesis was to try to change the square into a new square with recreational, cultural, green space and open space for all inhabitants, including tourists.

CITY OF ARCHITECTURE

INNOVATIVE HOUSE OF ARCHTECTURE FOR TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Eriketa Rrenjollari Ledian Bregasi

This thesis focuses on explaining and analyzing the concept of space, architecture, and innovative space. The selected topics closely relate to space and how everyone perceives it in their daily life. The research started by analyzing and studying the concept, going through a combination of bilateral innovative concepts and innovative space, without knowing the outcome. Space is considered as the main dimension, the real volume of everything that exists. As a connection point between space and innovation, the author has chosen the architecture, the passion for science, the use of imagination.

The design process gave life to a space called “Innovative House of Architecture”, | 292

directly related to the aforementioned basic concepts. This building will represent a new space for architecture and architects, but not in the form of a university or academic institution. The project aims to transcend the traditional methods and standards of teaching and will concentrate on offices, workshops, and auditoriums.

During the different developmental stages, the project changed its name. Taking into consideration its considerable dimensions, the author decided to re-name it “City of Architecture”, in order to give it a distinct identity and to completely separate it from other, more common and conventional centers in Tirana.

INDUSTRIAL AGRO-PUNTURE

EX-INDUSTRIAL BUILDING REVITALIZED IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Ermal Hoxha Dorina Papa

Re-Vitalize, Re-Use, Green Architecture, Urban Agriculture and Hybrid Structures were some of the topics discussed in this diploma thesis. The exploration of these topics can offer valuable examples in terms of how Tirana can and should change in the present as well as the near future.

Certainly, Tirana needs general regulatory plans, but also detailed plans and projects that operates even in a partial urban small-scale. Projects that take into account the context in which they’ll operate, understand the needs and trends of the community which lives in that area, understands the phenomenon of stratification, if there’s any, and the character of each layer.

This project attempts to offer acceptable and personalized solutions to these critical and crucial topics. What can we do with or in the abandoned former industrial buildings? Can we simply hand them over to a private factor than can act as he/she pleases and for as | 294

long as he wants with these buildings? Do these buildings still have any value in the changed context, for the community itself or even for the field of architecture? Can they represent an industrial heritage for Tirana? How can informality influence these topics? How can informality coexist with the ex-industrial? Can they create a new hybrid typology?

All these questions were the guiding lines of this diploma project. The phenomenon of informality is interpreted not as a negative factor anymore, but as an inspiring layer from which some rules and lessons can be taught. The program of the project was deeply conditioned by the character of the area and its residents, which gives to the project an informal appearance including aspects of the city, the village, and the industrial heritage.

The elaboration of all this data produced the inspiration for the creation of a project that respects the context, history, nature and man.

THE WATERFRONT AS CATALYST FOR URBAN REGENERATION OF VLORA

MARINE MUSEUM AS AN INSTRUMENT TO RE-BRING NATURAL ECOSYSTEMS AND STRENGTHEN LOCAL COMMUNITY VALUE Student: Supervisor:

Figali Dardhaj Loris Rossi

The case studies have been written from a range of disciplinary perspectives, providing a wealth of ways of understanding the phenomenon of waterfront regeneration.

In most cases, implementation of the regeneration has required, first and foremost, investment in organizational restructuring (e.g. creation of dedicatedwaterfront departments and offices within the local authorities, including information centres, as well as creation of new types of post) and the creation of new organizations (such as publicly owned development companies).

The new waterfront is an extension of the city spine, represented by its boulevard. Important functions should be proposed in order to revive the city during the whole year. Beyond the square | 296

further important functions must be anticipated; A recreational pole, sport activities, a wellness center and pools; but also smaller activities: Info points; NewsStands, Thematic squares, Playgrounds, Bus Stations, small cafes fishing piers, bathing services etc.

The Marine Museum is designed to invigorate and activate the waterfront through open public spaces and facilities that together bring a powerful and electric experience to the city 24 hours a day.

The new Marine museum is a destination with both public and private commercial facilities including exhibition and event spaces for the inhabitants as well as for national and international visitors. The project transforms the site into a dynamic urban hub.

SDX DEEPER VALUES FOR TIRANA LIVING/HOUSE IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Genc Tufi Ledian Bregasi

This main goal of this thesis is to show Tirana as e futuristic city. The city of the future has always been a very complex and problematic theme that partially reveals the utopian vision of the city as a whole, the urban development through the buildings’ typologies, its economic and social development. This design process went through the analysis of Tirana’s development during the period of transition and democracy and the constant changes that it has gone through until the present time. These analyses were helpful in understanding the city’s development and the changes that have happened for different reasons. This thesis was inspired by the current situation in Tirana and the need to develop a specific area. The General Plan of the Municipality of Tirana (PPV) aims to develop the territorial

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government based on a new model of, inclusive and integrated planning.

This type of urban planning ensures the management and control of territory in the context of sustainable development, the reconciliation of the vision and objectives set by national planning instruments.

It also enables the evaluation of all existing and future potentials of the territory and the promotion of the improvement and development of local infrastructure according to EU standards. Tirana’s master plan promotes, in particular, the improvement and development of the transport, the protection of the environment from pollution and supports rapid but balanced and sustainable social and human development within the domestic territory.

INTERACTIVITY AS AN ARCHITECTURAL DIMENSION TECHNOLOGICAL INCUBATOR IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Gerdi Papa Antonino Di Raimo

This research study’s focus is the influence of digital technology on architecture and vice-versa. Technology has marked its presence in almost every domain of our lives with architecture being one of the few disciplines left relatively unaffected. Today, digital technologies are usually perceived as additions to buildings, rather than architectural qualities. Architects are taking inspiration from other fields; they have started to gradually realize that an application of information technologies may lead to the reconstitution of principal qualities and lead to the development of a new, entirely unprecedented kind of architecture.

Concurrently, everyone needs to recognize that digital technology has rapidly increased the dynamic interaction between building and users. Architecture has always been in a process of continuous change influenced by its users and environment, a process that is slow and almost invisible.

The growth of societies has been | 300

accelerated by the digital information process which requires an architectural intervention that would communicate and interact with the changing environmental contexts and users’ preferences. Cities need to embody interactive architecture, a process-oriented guide to designing dynamic spaces capable of constantly adapting to the morphing environment while simultaneously performing a range of user functions. Once considered static and immutable, architecture is now capable of transforming into dynamic and interactive designs. As our society evolves so must its built environment. Architecture needs to evolve beyond parametric and generative design, incorporating re-adaptability and growth in order to change along with society. With present technological advances, a building needs to take on the role of an information processor, proposing configurations adapting to the ever-changing needs of its users.

INNOVATIVE HOUSING THE NEW CONCEPT OF HOUSING IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Gidian Hajderaj Elvan Dajko

Departing from the new modalities of the proposed project, this thesis has tried to find some intervention rules that could be used as guidelines for the bigger processes of transformations in the city. Specifically, the thesis focused on designing collective spaces inside of the entire intervention. In this regards the designed structure was based on the multiplicities of the foundations supporting it, the alternation between constructed and open spaces, the multiplicities of functions substituted by the unique, the coexistence of residential and other functions. Having used the tool of flexibility, this project has | 302

tried to create a process where the semipublic spaces, the connections, the green and open spaces have become tools of creating a scale of interactivity with the quality of space and living.

At the same time, the project has tried to leave a certain degree of versatility in terms of the the different ways of the appropriation of the space by the users, in order to modify it according to its needs. The quality of the project should be seen in the context of the variety and complexity of the proposed program and, ultimately, the project must continue to be an open process.

SENIOR HOUSING Student: Supervisor:

Gjinovefa Xinxo Elvan Dajko

This research project deals with the topic of architecture for the elderly. Actually, in Albania there is a lack of attention to the necessities of this category of people in terms of accommodation facilities. These institutions have always been prejudiced in Albania and, as such, there are not good examples, which provide a good quality service. On the contrary, worldwide example shows the attention that is given to such structures in order to offer not only medical care, but also guarantee security and privacy, connection with nature, proximity to town, interaction with the community and internal socialization.

Taking these hints as starting points, the home for the elderly was located in the interesting natural environment of Small Farka, in the surroundings area of Tirana. The project concept was developed in three phases. The first phase deals with the conclusions drawn from the research in terms of requirements that the | 304

elderly have for such institutions. Their need is a home care support design, the construction of each building as a real home not just a care facility. The internal house design and layouts require the flexibility of accommodating changing care or support needs. The whole scheme was seen as community assets which allow residents to mix with local people but also enable them to feel secure and have privacy at the same time.

The second phase continues with the conclusions drawn from the existing models of senior houses in which the different shapes of elderly distributions are studied. Finally, the last model was chosen and further developed, one of the most successful in terms of functioning and orientation.

The final project meets the functional requirement of an accommodation and healthcare structure, but also represents an architecture that facilitates socialization.

SUSTAINABLE HEALTH CARE ARCHITECTURE Mother Teresa University Hospital Center Student: Supervisor:

Gleidis Misja Laura Pedata

This thesis focuses on understanding the social, psychological and physical influences that an individual experiences when interacting with his/her artificial environment in order to successfully design an environment that encourages ecologically friendly behavior.

In particular, the research is focused on hospitals buildings, which significantly affect the environment and society: their energy consumption is three times higher than a normal residential building of the same size; they produce polluting emissions into the atmosphere, dangerous solid, liquid waste and have a very high water consumption. Public Health has been recognized as a resource that must be preserved and improved. Therefore, the negative effects on peoples’ health | 306

should be reduced, since these are places designated to protect and enhance them with the highest possible standards.

The aim of the research is to propose design instruments that promote a sustainable and high quality system of healthcare structures (both existing and newly designed), able to meet future social demands and emphasizing proper and sound architecture, technology and management solutions. To guarantee future generations the right to Health, with the high quality standards provided by scientific research, the final project has developed effective and innovative strategies that have made the Hospital building sustainable from a social, environmental, and economic point of view.

MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE NEW FACILITIES FOR TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Irma Nazari Elvan Dajko

Museums are the most common representative objects of cultural tourism as every year many people visit them.

They are not just buildings, not just protection for special collections but, also cultural institutions, designed to preserve cultural heritage, the collected materials and also house a large number of important discoveries and ideas.

The function of museums has expanded significantly. In this regards, the design of the new Natural Sciences Museum in Tirana would constitute a key point in raising peoples’ awareness about the protection of Albania’s flora and fauna | 308

and recognizing the importance of its components.

The function of this object goes beyond maintaining the current collection of the museum. The intersection between the museum’s function while, at the same time, representing a scientific research center, has created new spaces and has given a boost to the scientific research focusing on the flora and fauna, educating and informing society on the importance of each. The context, in which the project will possibly develop was selected in order to reinforce the impact of the museum by placing it in a similar context.

URBAN FARMING

NEW APPROACH FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF TIRANA RIVER Student: Supervisor:

Joli Kika Laura Pedata

This research thesis indicates the role of urban agriculture and urban farming in today’s society. In order to understand its impact in the world today, we need to understand how it all started and its varying forms. This project also wanted to show how urban farming was affected by various factors that impact its development and the advantages of this new type of agriculture. Vertical Farming, being one of the examples of urban farming has been a much discussed topic among architects, ecologists, planners, and environmentalists. A brief analysis of Vertical Farming was made, showing the strengths, threats, opportunities and weaknesses of this new concept.

Research questions, objectives and methodologies were part of this research in order to establish the reasons for this kind of research project, the selection of the tools that will help achieve it and the determination of methods that will contribute towards conducting this research. This research also shows why urban farming will be helpful for Tirana, how the implemented project will impact | 310

the surrounding area.

The shape of the building was made from three main cores, the almost horizontal main body, and on its sides, on the left and the right, the two other cores which are parallel to each other.

The building typology can be called as a horizontal skyscraper but with the features of a vertical farming building inside, as the food production takes place in the greenhouses that are distributed on all three levels. The Urban Farming Center will provide direct links to food production and will also make people stronger by putting food security into their own hands, making them more independent and empowered. This center will also educate people on the food, the products that will be produced there, the environment and the agriculture.

This project will be a building innovation in Tirana, since there is no other building of this type and it will impact many aspects of life, creating a whole new area in the city that will be totally sustainable.

S.E.C. - SOCIAL ECOLOGICAL CENTER Student: Supervisor:

Jona Qirici Ledian Bregasi

The intentions of this project were to sensitize people in turning slightly back in time, specifically the time during which they were united with each other, helping and organizing various events. Tirana was selected because territorial development, the change in population, architecture, etc. make it a source of inspiration.

The main cause of this project was “Mankind�. Therefore, the project deals with the development of a Social Ecological Corner. This topic discusses theoretical, practical issues, as well as architectural

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issues.

The selected spot for the intervention used to have the function of a military base, which today is no longer in use The intervention was thought to be neither too large nor too small in order to preserve the existing buildings. The solution was simple: in the few parts of the surface, the new structure was clutched with the existing structure. In some places the structure was positioned on the floor, or a double floor height and, in some places, the new structure was a shade cover.

YOUTH CENTER

NEW COMPLEX FOR THE CITY OF DURRES Student: Supervisor:

Jurgen Turkeshi Elvan Dajko

By analyzing many problems of the structure of city life, this research study focuses on an important aspect, the youth. The population of Albania has been and still is one of the youngest in Europe, with an average age of 32.5 years. More than half of the population is under 25 years old. What come in mind are questions like: “Where does all this potential go?� Is it used in efficient way and what are the potential leaks?

These questions, even unconsciously, disturb our daily lives, although translated into simpler forms life - Where would | 314

they go? - What could these people do?

In most cases, they could have not found constructive answers. This design process tries to change this reality, turning them into constructive responses.

Therefore, it is necessary to establish a new social catalyst for structuring the relationship between young people and the provision of opportunities, facilities for cultivating the talents and skills of the target age. Translated into architectural terms, the solution of this problem would be the establishment of a youth center.

SKI RESORT

NEW COMPLEX IN SOUTH OF ALBANIA - DARDHE Student: Supervisor:

Klajdi Dinellari Endrit Marku

In many countries in the world, skiing resorts constituted a modern tourist infrastructure development in function of winter tourism. They offer numerous services and facilities, enabling the development of winter sports such as skiing, snowboard, sled tours, skating, etc., attracting hundreds of thousands of tourists.

In this thesis, it was important to define one of the facilities that meets the following requirements. The Dardha village is located in the district of Korca in the southeastern part of Albania and offers favorable natural conditions for the development of winter tourism, which attracts a considerable number of visitors for skiing and ski-related activities. | 316

There has always been a skiing tradition, which continues to exist. The author’s focused his study on the establishment of a regional skiing resort with contemporary services keeping in mind that a number of the region’s residents usually relocate their sport practices to Mavrovo (FYROM) and Pisoder (Greece).

By encouraging the investment and construction of just such a facility in Dardha, the author intends to strengthen the development of winter tourism. The primary aim is increasing the number of visitors and tourists that affect the incoming generation, job creation and, thus, increase the wellbeing of the community of the whole area.

S.P.A. SENSITIVE CENTER THE CASE OF CITY DURRES Student: Supervisor:

Klevis Bregu Dorina Papa

The project treated in this thesis is located in the area of the municipality of Rashbull, in Manskuri village. The area is accessible through the old Tirana - Durres road. The specific area is located two kilometers away from this path.

It is six kilometers away from the city of Durres and 30 km from Tirana.

The nearest town to it is Shijak.

The area is easily accessible and is directly connected to the main street. The main goal is to design a Spa Resort in this area, reachable from two different itineraries: through the path of the lakes or through the hills. The concept was sim| 318

ply developed. The source has selected a basin as its path which plays an important role in the project. In order to involve it as much as possible some possible stop areas were provided, in order to take advantage of the water and green of its surrounding.

The final product of this thesis wanted to demonstrate the crucial role of architecture. If buildings are considered as living beings, then architects must be considered doctors. Architecture is not only about a well-structured building but also about the quality of life of the people living in it.

THE CITY OF CHILDREN CASE OF CITY OF DURRES Student: Supervisor:

Nadina Sula Loris Rossi

Children, who despite many risks, gather everyday to play their games outside inspired this project. Specifically, the project was necessitated by the alarming fact that their safety is threatened every time they go out to play.

Starting from this concern, the author presented the need to study the spaces of the inner-city, not as grown-ups, but through children’s eyes. The purpose of this study is the creation of a “children’s city” as a part of the big city, not | 320

just through the construction of a building but through the creation of a.

This project has been a product of an intensive study on the child- city-nature trinomial. Each of these elements, on its own has a lot of potential but combining those together could translate into the establishment of a child-friendly environment inside the city.

The concept of architecture was based on the linear city and children spatial layouts. The linear city helped the au-

thor in understand the relation between the area and neighborhood. The solution presented in the project was made possible by using the stripe method that contended different outdoor functions. The children spatial layouts were used to understand the child’s response to the world of architecture. An adult perceives walls, floors, columns, lights, colors, etc. in a specific way while, for a child, these elements can help in the creation of feelings like comfort, entertainment, safety etc.

The architectural concept was based on an accurate study plan combining the children layout with the free plan concept. The inspiration came from the paintings of Mondrian and Mies Van der Rohe’s plan. Mondrian’s usage of primary colors recalls and echoes a child’s perception.

The thesis was not only connected to children but, also the city. The flexible plan and transparency meshed well with nature’s stripes.

NATURAL COMMERCIAL CENTER

INTERUPTION IN EX-INDUSTRIAL AREAS IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Ona Zenelaj Ledian Bregasi

Through an overview of Albania’s problematic issues, the author realized that a very critical problem shared by all cities in Albania is the state of ex-industrial spaces. Albania is a post – Socialist, Eastern European country, which has experienced “drastic” changes during the last two decades. This process of change has its own phases and depends on many parameters like political, economic, and social ones. The country has shifted from a single party rule to a multi – party system, from a centralized economy to free - market policies, from a state ownership pattern to the introduction of private property. All these factors have had their own impact on social life and also on city life. Many of these ex-socialist buildings were considered as cases of “bad” infrastructures and began to deteriorate.

By also looking at the potential of our country, this topic also addresses.

The possibility of returning their old func| 322

tions to these buildings or the option of generating entirely new activities.

This research thesis tries to provide a solution for a problematic factor present in Albania, specifically industrial areas. In order to give them a new function and make them re-useable by the people, new ways must be found of making these areas attractive again.

As mentioned in the project’s description, this approach was made in such a way that the area can be used by all group ages and is designed to facilitate the movement of users in it. Therefore, separate but interrelated spaces, serving each other, were thought as the solution.

For this reason, the area was designed allowing the easy movement of children in the area especially designated for them, similar to the running spaces, the exhibition area and the area where people can meet. All three, implemented in such a way as to form the main service center, the Natural Commercial Center.

AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY CASE OF RAHOVEC, KOSOVA Student: Supervisor:

Qendrim Gashi Dorina Papa

This research thesis deals with planning and design regeneration strategies in the small town of Rahovec in southern Kosovo. The purpose of the researches is to revitalize the city and reinforce the identity of the whole region, promoting local agriculture, strengthening the educational system focused on these fields and creating a new centrality for the cultural life in the city.

Actually, the city is lacking cultural activities and, as a consequence, the opportunities of getting involved in its social and cultural life are scarce. However, agricultural development in this region is very productive and moreover, traditionally, the production of wine and the winery business have been the main occupation of the population of Rahovec. | 324

Thus, the strategy of urban regeneration is focused on providing education and training facilities which can offer not only direct support for the development and promotion of local agriculture, but can be used also as public infrastructure for various cultural events.

The final product is the design of an agricultural university and research centre conceived in a close relation with the landscape, located in a strategic dominant area with a full view of the city and the cultivated fields in the surrounding territory. Particular importance was given to the organic design of the public space through the use of water mirrors, local greenery, and other design elements in accordance with the naturalistic character of the area.

DIoCA DAJTI INSTITUTION OF CONTEMPORARY ART Student: Supervisor:

Renisa Muka Laura Pedatai

This research thesis is focused on the transformation and reuse of important historical buildings which currently are in a state of degradation and abandonment. Referring particularly to the Dajti Hotel case study, in Tirana, a symbol of Albanian tourism and one of the milestones of architectural history from the ‘40s, this thesis aimed at raising public awareness of this building through installing new cultural institutions.

The strategy is that of keeping the previous function of the hotel but contemporizing it, by turning it into an Academy that invites, supports, and promote artists. In addition, a new space behind the hotel is intended for the Institute of Contemporary Art, which is conceived as an exchange space for people, ideas, and art. A primary intention of DIoCA is to open its doors to the city, to invite and engage the public in international matters | 326

through a variety of exhibitions.

This adaptive reuse project aims to bring the public back to the city center by providing a common space for cultural connections. Ultimately, the adapted building creates a dialogue between the past and present city of Tirana, simultaneously honoring its unique cultural heritage and potential in serving as an icon for a successful urban transformation.

As a building that has been abandoned for over 19 years, the renovation’s success depends largely on the new building design. Reuse projects introduced new elements to existing buildings, through the enhancement or transformation of certain features.

In conclusion, the Institute of Contemporary Art attached to the renovated Dajti Hotel is meant to be one of the top cultural destinations for tourists in Albania.

PROGRESSIVE CITY VS. CONSERVING NATURE PRESERVATION OF PASKUQAN LAKE IN TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Romir Mazari Antonino Di Raimo

This research thesis deals with sustainable environment design as a matter of the regeneration of an important environmental area which has been transformed through informality, into degraded ecosystems.

This master research considers the current urban development in Albania, specifically, in Tirana, as unsustainable, in terms of the environment, ecology, biodiversity ecosystems. In this particular case | 328

study, the area of the lake Paskuqan, in Tirana, the main existing problems were instability, mismanagement, uncontrolled land exploitation, natural resource implications, and informality – which might cause the territory’s loss of identity.

A clean “conflict or confrontation” between urbanization and nature is evident in this area. Therefore, a sustainable solution is necessary or otherwise this area will suffer ecological damage

from which it would be very hard to recover.

The research goal for the author was to find a way to design, in coherence with the eco-system, emphasizing the necessity of the city in providing a connection with nature, adopting sustainable and ecological practices in urban and architectural design.

The final project establishes and organizes sustainable functions along the

border of Lake Paskuqan. The main idea was to preserve ecosystems, to reinforce them and design buildings that interact with the environment stimulating the ecology and exchange of information. The important message was to say `NO` to informal settlements and to rethink the city in a sustainable way.

RESEARCH AND BIODIVERSITY RESEARCH CENTER A NEW FUNCTION FOR TIRANA EXTENSION BULEVARD Student: Supervisor:

Sheila Hasani Laura Pedata

This research thesis investigates sustainable development strategies that can improve the quality of life in the outskirts of Tirana, marking a new commitment towards turning neglected areas into new cultural parks. Biodiversity conservation could not be included in the resource-management decisions only in one direction, as it is a vital element in keeping natural processes alive. Therefore, the management of natural systems includes | 330

many tradeoffs between preserving biodiversity and other purposes. Knowledge on biodiversity is very valuable in promoting technological innovation, in exploring human biology and ecology experiences, all ways of transforming this biodiversity knowledge into valuable beliefs.

Tirana, being the capital of Albania, has developed in a very short period, neglecting ecosystems. The city has different parks, but none of them has a diversi-

ty of functions.

Therefore, the project idea was to transform the existing Paskuqan Park using the topology infrastructure, nature, and technology in a multifunctional research centre with different activities like: a Farming Park, a Regional Garden, an Arboretum, a Flower Garden, an Event’s Open Area, a Sports Park, an area for Horse Riding, an Energy Forest, a Museum Research Center and a Water Purification

Bridge.

This project significantly influenced the development of the quality of life in the outskirts of Tirana. Furthermore, the creation of a Museum Research Center as the biggest building in the park area is thought as the main attraction point creating a link between the park and the surrounding city.

The final project is a technologically innovative complex in symbiosis with nature.

RED KNOT MULTIMEDIA AS A STRATEGY FOR SOCIAL CHANGE Student: Supervisor:

Sonila Brahollari Loris Rossi

This research thesis investigates the role of multimedia in the city and, in particular, the role of this kind of cultural architectural buildings in the future of the city. The management and direction of human and natural resources is the crucial theme that defines our future.

As a condition to understanding the phenomenon of change in society, the research is first directed towards the presentation of some philosophical, social and architectural terms, stages, tools and methods that make them possible. Better studying and adapting these phenomena to the context of society and our reality, the thesis summarizes a set of facts that have changed the course of cities. A fast and unabsorbed development of society has caused some side effects in terms of | 332

the economy, culture and dynamics of cities, leaving gaps in the standard of living and our vision for the future.

The aim of this research is to treat multimedia art as an instrument that impacts social changes. This purpose entails proposing a new typology for multimedia buildings that used technological innovation and new materials in order to impact the city.

Based on this, the final design of the multimedia complex is conceived in a closed emotional and physical relation with the city that excites the curiosity and imagination of people. As a cultural centre it develops art, graphic design, exhibitions, video and visual performances which makes it even more attractive.

PROFESSIONAL

MASTERS

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2011-2014

Aesthetic Structural & Design 2012-2013 Ardit Lila...............................................................................338 ”CRITICAL REVIEW OF RESTAURATION ”

Erdi Myftaraga...................................................................340 ”GEOTHERMAL FOUNDATIONS

Genci Shteto.........................................................................342 ”THE AESTHETIC OF STRUCTURE”

Irma Temali...........................................................................344 ”PHOTOVOLTAIC”

Parametric Architectural & Design 2012-2013 Aneta Spaseska..................................................................346 ”MICRO PRODUCTIVE LANDSAPES ”

Arta Selimi............................................................................348 ”INTEGRATION OF CONTEMPORARY DESIGN ON THE “ICONIC BUILDING”” Burim Sadiku........................................................................350 ”MOBILITY CENTER” Olgica Nelkovska...............................................................352 ”SOUNDSCAPE AS KEY CONCEPT FOR UNDERSTANDING DYNAMIC PROPERTIES OF URBAN SPACES:”

Landscape & Urban Design 2012-2013 Anisa Mane..........................................................................354 ”HIMARA CITY MARKETING AND THE PROMOTION OF CULTURAL AND HERITAGE TOURISM” Arsim Gerxhaliu...................................................................356 ”THE WAY OF DEVELOPMENT OF “M2” HIGHWAY IN SEGMENT PRISHTINA-VUSHTRRI” Fahrush Azemi......................................................................358 ”PLANNING INSTRUMENTS” Ilda Qazimllari....................................................................360 ”REVITALIZATION OF CITY THROUGH PUBLIC SPACES AND THE CITY CENTER CONCEPT” Skender Palloshi..................................................................362 ”DEFINING THE NEW LANDSCAPE AND URBAN VISION OF TETOVO”

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CRITICAL REVIEW OF RESTAURATION

METHODOLOGY OF THE ARCHITECTURE HERITAGE ADOPTED IN ALBANIA IN THE LAST 20 YEARS AS A SORT OF TOOLS TO RECONSIDER STRUCTURE AND THE TRADITIONAL COMPONENTS AS AESTHETIC Student: Supervisor:

Ardit Lila Vera Bushati

Albania is truly proud of its rich history with its diverse cultural experiences and traditions, and especially its many wonderful cultural heritage assets. However, now more than ever, the combination of environmental threats such as climate change and socio-economic conditions put our Albanian cultural heritage in danger, leaving the aesthetic structural design in a precarious state and losing, in some cases, even the basic traditional elements in all the buildings’ categories.

This thesis focuses on showing a critical review of Restoration methodologies adopted in Albania in the last 20 years as a set of tools towards reconsidering structure and the traditional components as an aesthetic element. The restoration of architectural heritage is a very complex topic in continuous development and it is well connected with the aesthetic design of the object, including the previous knowledge of its structure as an aesthetic element and, of course, the basic traditional elements that it possesses. The issue raises interesting questions about the methodological approach to be followed and the objectives from which a correct restoration project must begin according to the structure and the traditional components as aesthetic elements.

The main objective of this research is to study the restoration criteria, highlight the appropriate methodology on how to return important monuments or buildings of the Architectural Heritage in Albania to an optimal state according to the ISCARSAH recommendations and practical examples implemented in different countries that are part of UNESCO. What is the need for this specific | 338

restoration? It is well connected with the whole history of the object starting from the architectural idea, elements, materials and, of course, the preservation of the aesthetic design of the object’s structure.

Currently, in this field, different approachesare being used: either a criteria based on the restoration, which places more attention on the form and materials of the building butand less on the originality of the structural aesthetic design and structural components; or a technical method that is more interested in the structure but, in many cases, involves over-dimensioned interventions that exceed the real requirements, altering the original form and history of the building.

In conclusion, as we can notice from this research, Albanian requires the support of the national and international recommendations for the restoration methodology like, for example, the ISCARSAH guidelines, among others. In this way, it iswill be possible to understand the structure of the building in order to maintain its values and reconsider it as an aesthetic element. If we allow a proper restoration methodology, we can save and preserve Albania’s architectural heritage. The Albanian national heritage can be used as an important generator for income.

However, there is a need for the development of professional knowledge regarding the maintenance and management of the national heritage. Not only Albania but the majority of the Balkan region is in a similar situation, a consequence of the institutional path dependency from the communist regimes. Therefore, there is an obvious risk of the heritage being destroyed.

GEOTHERMAL FOUNDATIONS

INVESTIGATIONS OF THEIR CHRACTERISTICS AND ASSESING THE APPLICABILITY IN THE ALBANIAN CONTEXT BY MEANS OF CASE STUDY COMPARISONS

Student: Supervisor:

Erdi Myftaraga .Gjergji Simaku

Nowadays the issues related to energy resources and sustainable energy resources are the focus of activities conducted by institutions as well as individual researchers. Various points of views and perspectives are shown regarding this, each of them characterized by specific advantages and disadvantages. Among others, geothermal energy represents one of the most plausible alternatives. This thesis is focused on ‘geothermal foundations’, an innovative way of gaining energy from the earth.

Although recently developedaround 1980- geothermal foundations have had a relatively widespread implementation in the latest building projects.

They have the advantage of providing relatively environmentally- friendly and sustainable energy for building requirements. The technology enables both the heating and cooling of building spaces, being so applicable in different seasons and climates. These systems are also characterized by high performance parameters and, as a consequence, there are high expectations that the initial investment will return within a reasonable amount of time.

A qualitative approach is used in the research aimingat the two main objectives related to geothermal foun| 340

dations. Firstly, the focus is placed on the characteristics of geothermal foundation systems. What are their characteristics and what alternatives and particularities do these systems offer? Secondly, efforts are made in order to determine themain features are leading to a successful geothermal foundation project. Furthermore, the research gives an assessment of the applicability of geothermal foundation systems in the Albanian context, by considering the state of the art of construction and technology in Albania. In this regard, several case studies (32 international and 3 Albanian) are described and compared.

We can conclude that the utilization of geothermal foundations as an alternative energy source to electricity is an economical solution. This statement applies to long-term benefits, considering that, for the main elaborated case studies, the payback period of time is between 3 to 8 years. The main cost reduction comes from using the foundation as a space to install the circulation pipes. This cuts all the drilling and similar costs. Despite this later reduction, geothermal foundation systems usually have a higher initial investment compared to conventional heating and cooling systems. The advantage is in the relatively low operational costs.

THE AESTHETIC OF STRUCTURE Student: Supervisor:

Genci Shteto Antonino Di Raimo

The definition of structure as a separate discipline in the history of architecture is relatively recent, dating to about 150 years ago. Before that time, the aesthetic roles of architecture and structure were indistinguishable and, consequently, the phrase “aesthetics of structure” does not have definite meaning. In the complicated art of constructing, the structure has always been used as a potential aesthetic instrument. Architecture, in general, despite structure, has many other aesthetic instruments like color, light, decoration, geometric proportions, form etc. In addition, the structure or the load-bearing part of the building plays a crucial aesthetic role because, during the cognitive process, it exerts a direct psychological impact on the viewer while the structural impression may affect the human “survival instinct”. In a certain way the perception of structure represents the building’s state of health.

In 2009 Mr. Denis Dutton presented his theory of evolutionary aesthetic. According to that theory, our sense of beauty is related to our primordial instinct of survival and he meticulously explains the way in which this works. In fact, the essence of Dutton’s theory is a simple and short conclusion; deep in our mind the healthy and the beautiful are the same thing. Applying this short conclusion to the case of structural aesthetic leads to a research which aims to find a relationship between various type of structures, their reflection of health and the conversion of this health into Beauty. | 342

In this thesis, the “aesthetic”aspect is considered as something to be found in structure but considering structure as a whole. The research doesn’t deal with aesthetics as a philosophical problem. At some point, it considers the evolution of aesthetics in order to explain why some aesthetics must be scrabbled to the structure and why the structure must evidence itself aesthetically: Furthermore it claims to reveal the aesthetic part of the building that belongs to the structure and the role of this part in terms of the general public’s attitude.

Thiscase study analyzes 28 buildings that are selected by the way the aesthetic of their structure influences the building’s aesthetic. These 28 objects are divided in groups according to the main aesthetic behavior of their structure and, for each of them, a few considerationsare expressed that relate them to the final conclusions. The examples presented are rated in ascending order beginning with some random cases and positioning the best ones at the end of the study material. In the end, the research is synthesized in a three-dimensional graphic chart where the conclusions are combined with the progressive positive proprieties of each case.

In conclusion, the structure not only has a specific aesthetic charge but relating the aesthetic of structure to its psychological impact upraises the structure to the top of architectural aesthetic instruments

PHOTOVOLTAIC

THE AESTHETIC VALUE OF THE INTEGRATION OF RENEWABLE ENERGY ACTIVE TECHNIQUES INTO BUILDING DESIGN Student: Supervisor:

Irma Temali Laura Pedata

T he world’s demand for energy is focused on renewable non-polluted energy, so zero energy and zero emission buildings are rapidly growing. In addition to this, designers have started to think differently about designing new buildings and renovating existing ones in order to achieve energy efficiency. One of the achievements in the renewable energy technologies is photovoltaic energy, which produces electricity on site directly from the sun, without needing another energy supply or causing environmental harm. Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) system may represent a powerful tool for reaching this goal. BIPV can serve as building envelope and power generator.

This thesis states that, along with the economic and technical part, the integration of Photovoltaic panels into the building design can also provide an aesthetic solution. This thesis first describes the background information of PV panels, their technology, design, orientation, classification, production. Alongside, innovative examples of buildings with integrated solar panels were selected and documented.

The present study shows different aspects of the integration of PV in

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building design. It is important to find out how the PV panels impact the aesthetic value of the building. This study emphasizes the importance of using Photovoltaic panels not only as an energy producer but also as an added value in the aesthetic building design. An introduction and knowledge of the PV system will directly increase its use by architects and building professionals. The research offers new insights to the topic regarding the aesthetic value of the BIPV product, concretely presenting the ability of its integration. The study contributes to the debate on the value of integrating the PV in the design process. This study also offers a description of many interesting products, their characteristics and integration types in buildings design.

In conclusion, the building integration of the Photovoltaic system aims to reduce costs and minimize the requirement for land. The architect or designer should use all visible opportunities to integrate the PV into the building in an aesthetic way. Important for the integration of PV modules are the functionality of PV module as building elements that replace the existing one and the visible aspects of modules like form, color, frames etc.

MICRO PRODUCTIVE LANDSAPES THE CAPACITY OF SKOPJE FOR URBAN AGRICULTURE Student: Supervisor:

Aneta Spaseska Laura Pedata

Today’s cities are becoming increasingly populated, densified, and broadened. This growth greatly affects the people living in cites and the entire natural system as well. Their ecological foot print is enormous; therefore, the need for more efficient/less harming urban systems concerns the entire population. Resultantly, the main topic of this research study is urban agriculture. It is an approach that tackles environmental problems of contemporary urban growth and also brings social and economic benefits.

With the change from a socialist into a capitalist social order, Skopje started to lose its spaciousness because of new urban development favoring private financial benefit rather than the common interest. The boost of construction activities and the densification of the city | 346

caused a state of permitted unsustainability and intensification of urban problems that are not onlyof an environmental nature but also social and economic.

Some of these problems are: building and traffic congestion, lack of green spaces, air and noise pollution. Given that Skopje is facing negative consequences due to this rapid and uncontrolled urban development, urban food growth could be used as a tool for treating these issues.

The main purpose of this study is to find out whether are there potentials for agricultural activities in the intra-urban area of Skopje. The intention was to see if this city could join this growing world movement in order to try and deal with some of the negative effects caused by urban development. Whether institutions in Skopje are concerned about this topic, is one of the questions this study is

trying to examine. Additionally, the thesis considers the civil society actors and their input regarding this topic. And, finally, some spatial characteristics of the city are reviewed in order to establish whether a base for urban agriculture in Skopje exists. This study focuses on the public plots of land in the urban area of the city, referring to them as micro landscapes.

This research aims at promoting the topic of urban agriculture in the local context of Skopje. There is a lack of literature and activities regarding UA in this city, so this study aims to contribute towards setting a base for further development in regards to this area. It shows basics information on UA as a global phenomenon and local conditions that could maximize its progress.

The findings showed that the institutional/legal conditions for urban

agriculture in Skopje are good and indirectly support the practice and promotion of growing food in the city. The potential civil society actors for promotion of urban agriculture exist but are still limited while the spatial capacities are not an obstacle.

Skopje could gain multiple benefits by being open, inviting and supportive towards urban agriculture. This means that information regarding this topic should be brought closer to local inhabitants as well as to the local and state institutions that are involved in policy making. Finally, an integrated approach between official institutions and civil society sector could bring a paradigm shift and make space for the development of the globally growing trend of implementing agriculture in the city.

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topic and case studies. The main goal is the exploration of the possibility of creating another iconic sports building, designed with contemporary standards, without harming the surrounding environment.

In conclusion, the researches results showed that citizens of Pristina, want to have an Olympic swimming pool, due to the stagnation of thedevelopment of swimming as a sport. The Urban Development Plan also approved this idea, that of creating a creative area in the city center, referred to as “Qendra 1”, deciding to give permission for this type of building to be developed in this area.

The management of municipality of Pristina is a very important instrument, which determines the criteria, needs and responsibilities of all stakeholders. Without having a management/development plan, the “AdemJashari”Youth Center is endangered and not protected at all.

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The “AdemJashari”Youth Centeris an iconic building of Kosovo’s capital, Pristina, one of the most completed sport centers, one of the most frequented places but days it is out of order. After it was burned down, a lot of sport facilities remained closed.Several projects tried to rehabilitate the Youth Center, but none of them was ever implemented due to financial problems. This complex also includes a building that will host an Olympic swimming pool. According to the UDP, it is planned to be built in this location. The issue was is whether the citizens of Pristina will accept this kind of building to be built in the location for which they have paid with their own contributions.

The dissertation will try to define the impact of creating a modern building settlement nearby the existing one in the same environment.

The research method for this study case includes surveys, experiments, interviews and questionnaires that have been collected as primary research, whereas the secondary research was based on literature reviews about the

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MOBILITY CENTER FERIZAJ, KOSOVA Student: Supervisor:

Burim Sadiku Antonino Di Raimo

This study search focuses on the Mobility Center in Ferizaj and the solution that was provided by its municipality for about two years, which did not satisfy the citizens’ interests. A large majority of European citizens live in an urban environment, with over 60% living in urban areas. They live their daily lives in the same space, and for their mobility share the same infrastructure. Urban mobility accounts for 40% of all CO2 emissions of road transport and up to 70% of other pollutants from transport. European cities increasingly face problems caused by transport and traffic. The question of how to enhance mobility while at the same time reducing congestion, accidents and pollution is a common challenge to all major cities in Europe. Congestion in the EU is often located in and around urban areas and costs nearly 100 billion Euros, or 1% of the EU’s GDP, annually. Cities themselves are usually in the best position to find the right responses to these challenges, taking into account their specific circumstances.

This study search aims to show that efficient and effective urban transport can significantly contribute to achieving objectives in a wide range of policy domains for which the EU has an established competence. The thesis proposal was called EuraFer (Fer=Ferizaj) in order to give the project an European image and treatment for the mobility and transport issue. The solution was somehow based on the Euralille concept but minimized taking into consideration scale, | 350

so the EuraFer is a smaller project in accordance with the number of inhabitants, travelers, economical and infrastructural development of our country. The new Mobility Center EuraFer is situated in the ex industrial zone, which is almost privatized, and demolished. The infrastructure in this area is more accessible from main roads which link the city with other cities and it is crossroad of two crucial directions which are: Ferizaj- Prizren, and Ferizaj-Prishtine-Skopje. The city’s park is located near the mobility center with huge free areas planned to be developed for housing.

With EuraFer, the city’s benefits are multi dimensional, the access is more practical, the local public transport can be more efficient, the pedestrian and bicycles will increase, the traffic jams caused by buses can be permanently avoided. The local public transport can be implemented which will dramatically decrease private car use; with air pollution and accidents will decrease. The pedestrian’s life quality will increase; in meantime the city boulevard will be more open and free. Historically, the city will keep its memory, and the railway will be secured with a detailed project. A specific length of the existing railway will be kept only for memory. The permanent risk from trains will be avoided. A lot of green space will be generated through the existing railway. The same project will be implemented, with lower financial and social costs, and a big difference in quality of transportation and life.

SOUNDSCAPE AS KEY CONCEPT FOR UNDERSTANDING DYNAMIC PROPERTIES OF URBAN SPACES: SKOPJE SQUARE “MAKEDONIJA” AS A KEY STUDY

Student: Supervisor:

Olgica Nelkovska Antonino Di Raimo

Public spaces are the most vibrant places through which cities can offer the users a rich spatial experience by meeting all the layers of their perception. Urban spaces can be explored with all the human senses which will provide a synesthetic knowledge about the environment. Hearing allows us to engage with the spatial context, by experiencing its presence through the specificities of the existing soundscape. The sonic environment and it dynamic changes are influenced by the context, defined from many social, cultural, physical and natural factors, and can represent a reflection of the present surrounding.

Skopje, the capital city of Macedonia, country which is undergoing a period of a 20-year transition as a former Yugoslav republic, and has experienced a lot of transformation in terms of construction and cultural context as a manifestation of the socio-political changes that the country is experiencing. The soundscape of the city, analyzed trough its presence in | 352

Makedonija,the central city square represents a field in which one can explore the influences of the present sociopolitical, cultural, build and natural context on it dynamic changes. The sound elements present in the urban environment are theaspects on which we base our awareness of the surrounding context.

The transformation of the environment’s acoustic properties can be explored through the change of it rhythm and dynamic values as a reflection of the interaction between the sound elements.

Sound elements with their symbolic meaning presented in the urban environment representthe aspects on which we base our awareness of the surroundings. The ways in which these elements, defining the overall spatial context of the central square in Skopje, influence our perception of its sonic environment will be the main topic of study. The search for the answer begins with listening to the existing audible space.

HIMARA CITY MARKETING AND THE PROMOTION OF CULTURAL AND HERITAGE TOURISM Student: Supervisor:

Anisa Mane Endri Marku

This research is about the marketing of the city of Himara as one of the most important aspect of economic development, with a special focus on the promotion of cultural and heritage tourism.

The main objective of this research is to determine the ways in which the city of Himara can be promoted through cultural and heritage tourism and the identification of the policies and strategies that should be undertaken.

The research covers questions about the possible policies, strategies and projects that should be undertaken to promote the cultural and heritage tourism of Himara, with the primary aim being economic growth.Other important question marks were the consequences of the promotionof cultural tourismonHimara’s economic development and the accessibility to heritage centers. Another scope of this thesis was the identification of policies and projects that should be undertaken to improve accessibility in heritage centers, and that of relevant stakeholders and who might support the proposed policies and projects.

The city of has a high potential of greatly improving its cultural and heritage tourism, although this type of tourism has been neglected for years, because it was continuously eclipsed by summer (beach) tourism. This trend imposes an active and dynamic life only during the summer months. During the rest of the year, the city falls in a kind of lethargic existence with its population decreasing almost by half. The main reasons causing this phenomenon have a pattern based on urban and social factors that directly or indirectly affect many aspects of the sustainable development of the city. These factors derive from the lack of basic infrastruc| 354

ture, economic development, basic touristic information, accommodation capacity, accessibility in the areas of cultural and heritage centers and lower environmental standards and hygiene.

This research method includes elements like lectures, interviews, data from the Municipality of Himara, literature site visits. The literature on the topic covers some of the most representative concepts related to city marketing, city branding, city image, cultural tourism and heritage tourism.

The information on tourism in Albania shows that there is a growing interest by foreign tourists towards visiting Albania, but a lot of work should be done in many aspects of tourism strategies and policies, like; accessibility, infrastructure, accommodation structures, information etc. Also, the data collected through the research showed that foreign tourists are increasingly interested in cultural tourism. Even though Himara possesses great potential, the tourism sector remain sun organized and much remains to be done in order to create a tourism brand.

In conclusion, we night say that heritage should be considered as an economic engine and multifaceted subject. The situation of Himara dictates that the landscape and infrastructure strategies (as primary communication) should be the main tool used by urban governance. It’s important to create marketing campaigns, advertisements, logos, all the while paying attention not to overuse it(as secondary communication). In marketing, teasing and promising is a known strategy but you also have to deliver and not disappoint expectations. Otherwise, the “word of mouth”(Tertiary communication), will have a contrary effect.

THE WAY OF DEVELOPMENT OF “M2” HIGHWAY IN SEGMENT PRISHTINA-VUSHTRRI THE SIMULATEOUS DEVELOPMENT OF URBAN AND AGRICULTURE AREAS ALONG THE HIGHWAY “M2” Student: Supervisor:

Arsim Gerxhaliu Ledian Bregasi

This researchstudy deals with the immediate need of drafting a strategic plan for the corridor along the Pristina-Vushtrri highway (M2), which is under development in terms of business, light industry and residential units. An important objective is the simultaneous preservation of agricultural land and the development of businesses, manufacturing and housing without compromising the agricultural land.

In this regard, the basis for such a plan is the Kosovo Spatial Plan and the Municipal and Urban Development Plan of Vushtrri, which generally suggests the way of this area’s development.

This research thesis focuses on the Prishtina-Vushtrri, “M2” highway segment. The disturbing fact about this development is that the entire highway passes through the Field of Kosovo, especially the Prishtina-Vushtrri-Mitrovica segment which has to be developed through the most fertile lands. In addition, the trend of this development is on the rise, thus causing the territory’s metamorphosis. This trend is developing in two directions, that of business development and residential development. While the business development is trying to create a “tunnel” with constructions along the highway, the residential development is increasingly moving towards a spread typology of residential houses placed deep in the agricultural land. Both trends are causing the detriment of this area near the “M2” highway segment, damages in terms of agricultural land fund, as well as in terms of the environmental aspect, thus causing the destruction of the landscape.

Considering the reality created in this | 356

area, the great potential for development that this important corridor offers and also the undisputed importance of the preservation of agricultural lands, the key questions to be answered are: if the developing production and business activities along the M2 highway should be allowed and comprise the right conditions to create an agro-city, which might be the economic connection zone between Prishtina, Obiliq, Vushtrri and Mitrovica?

Theresearch’s results concluded that the Prishtina-Vushtrri, “M2” highway segment, in addition to the indisputable agriculture potential, also has great potential for economic development, especially agro-industrial development. The proposed Development Strategy is in total compliance with the applicable legislation of the country, fully respecting the protection of agricultural land, the hierarchy of planning in the Republic of Kosovo and the recommendations derived from existing planning documents, such as the Spatial Plan of Kosovo and the Municipal and Urban Development Plan of Vushtrri.

The portion of the Development Strategy dedicated to the existing situation of this zone, treats the new form of this area as a potential for future development. For this purpose, the use of economic potentials (the creation of economic zones), the use of agricultural potentials (the preservation of agricultural land and also the advance in science and technology used in agricultural lands) and the return of informal settlements in proactive contents for the area helps the economic and agricultural development.

PLANNING INSTRUMENTS

DESIGN URBAN AND LANDSCAPE OF ENVIROMENTAL AND SOCIAL ASPECT GRAÇANICA, KOSOVA Student: Supervisor:

Fahrush Azemi Dorina Papa

In the civilized world there are concrete and very important measures taken to protect the environment by making laws and international conventions.

This study search dedicates a special attention to the social aspect, tourism, agriculture, sport facilities, landscape design, etc. Kosovo, as a country in transition, is facing a lot of environmental problems that risk human life, for example, problems in the relationship between communities, the development of tourism, the development of sport and sport facilities, agriculture, unemployment, etc. Kosovo is determined to work in these fields in order to fulfill the criterias of the other developed European countries. All the above problems were treated in this diploma in order to find solutions to these problems through different instruments required, as urban design, landscape design, and relevant native and international factors.

The main focus of this thesis is the town of Gracanica, in particular the depository of sterile tailings of Kisnica Mine which is the main contaminant in this zone.

Nowadays this depository is discharged and the thesis proposal was about transforming it into an attractive park with different attractions: artificial lakes, game parks, different plants, paths, a corner with bikes for rent, restaurants which offer traditional food, wine production, sport facilities, etc. This way the region would break the boundars of the Municipality of Gracanica, but it would be | 358

enlarged binded with/from Badovci Lake to Germia Park in Pristina and it would include a large territory.

This research study is of significant importance not only for this region but for Kosovo in general. Choosing this research has its own significance in many aspects: environment (nature carefulness), sharing common space by different nationalities, developing tourism, agriculture, urban design and landscape, etc.

This research is also an alert for relevant institutions in order to take concrete measures in preventing the contamination of the environment, improving social relationship, developing tourism, agriculture, etc, by creating a better atmosphere for foreign investors (public-private partnership), in order to improve social well fare , economic development, decrease unemployment, etc.

A conclusion of this study is that the project’s vision for rehabilitating industrial tailings and relapse them into an attractive and green environment, linking this zone with Pristina, 40 Germia Park, Badovci Lake, industry, green corridor and bicycle path will serve in solving many issues mentioned above. These interventions will create a high standard life for all citizens and the region in general. Bur, all this can not be realized if all relevant state instruments are activated including all stakeholders and local inhabitants that live nearby.

REVITALIZATION OF CITY THROUGH PUBLIC SPACES AND THE CITY CENTER CONCEPT PEJA, KOSOVA Student: Supervisor:

Ilda Qazimllari Endri Marku

The concept of this thesis was the urban, artistic and architectural intervention in the city center through the transformation of an open space into a public space. The project explores how the space could be designed in order to give a sense of ownership to the community.

The cities are composed of many types of space, including those which are located between the built environment, the “in between space”, perimetral space defined by the infrastructure of transportation, communication, industry and development. This type of space comprises what Jacobs refers to as the border vacuums. When we think of urban public space, parks, plazas, malls and squares are the entities that often come to our mind. Many of these programmed spaces have been created to be used in certain way, at specific times, for a limited set of purposes. Often, the public art that we see has been commissioned for these spaces, sometimes in the form of monuments, sometimes structures and areas not to be touched, some of it not at all interactive.

The aim: My intentions is to provide a practical project and guidance on | 360

how to build public spaces that will bring people together for a positive, shared experience of urban living.

My research and project is focused on the role of urban design strategies in managing the development process. Residual space may have uses that are social and economic: an urban garden for families to grow flowers, and provide vegetables for themselves. It may provide space for a workshop in which people can learn new skills, teach skills, create useful items, or make art. It may be a space for voices to be heard: music, public forums, and new media. It may be social and recreational: for example, fishing.

The scope of my thesis is to employ architectural and urban tools in residual urban space as a catalyst for transformation. The goal is to design a city center that could be used for any combination of purposes, be used freely by all the members of the community, be designed so that art and architecture are interactive, and could be transformed by the users of the space. The design a “public-space” model through the “reading” of city is very important.

DEFINING THE NEW LANDSCAPE AND URBAN VISION OF TETOVO An approach on How to Develop a new Vision for the City Tetovo, Makedonija Student: Supervisor:

Skender Palloshi Anila Gjika

The main objective of this study is to define the new landscape and urban vision of Tetovo. The city of Tetovo is one of the most important cities and one of the earliest Albanian cities in Macedonia.

It lies in one of the areas with the most beautiful landscape in the fields of Polog along the slopes of the Sharr Mountain, traversed by The Pena River; it provides tourists with some of the most important winter attractions inthis area.

Recently,Tetovo has been exposed to a fast growth and urban sprawl: the Urban Territory has been heavily fragmented and divided by new constructions, unplanned interventions and etc. Public spaces have lost their primary function because of private interventions which have caused the city to lose a part of its identity; currently, the quality of city space is lower than that of the traditional organic structure, which was a characteristic for the city.

Public space was very important in the traditional city. Moreover, nowadays, the relationship between citizens and nature has changed dramatically: green spaces have obviously shrunk, the river as an integral part of the city was channeled into a concrete bed, the city seems increasingly distant from nature and the countryside.

The organic city, which used to be a very livable city, has been affected by the modernist interventions, especially in the Main Boulevards and central part. | 362

New corridors replaced the small scale, green neighborhoods and valleys with heavy modernist repetitive buildings. Furthermore, this process continues nowadays with new constructions. With this kind of urban development, cities have lost their identity, natural and agricultural zones are held in lesser regard, and functional spaces of the city are inaccessible and often space lose their quality. These spaces are a good opportunity of intervention by using urban and landscape design.

The study focuses exactly on that: How urban and landscape design can improve the quality of life in the city of Tetovo.

The objective of this thesis is to provide some guidelines on how we can intervene in the urban structure of the city. These guidelines have to be conceived as part of an in depth analysis of the territory and urban context, while taking in consideration other aspects such as social, economic, cultural and so forth. One of the urban visions might use water as a means for urban transformation, in the public spaces, where water could be collected from rain /snow and could be directed into the public spaces and green areas, thus contributing towards bringing nature closer to the urban environment and raising the quality of the public space.

In conclusion, we can say that we should revitalize the public spaces by using simple interventions such as providing urban furniture, water surfaces, open air sitting places, in order to create an outdoor livable area.

Parametric Architectural & Design 2014 Albana Morina....................................................................366 ”COEXISTENCE THROUGH ARCHITECTURE”

Landscape & Urban Design 2014 Ardi Dhima.............................................................................368 “URBAN DESIGN - A CONTRIBUTE TO ENERGY EFFICIENCY”

Donika Cetta Juncaj.............................................................370 “MULTIPLE WAYS OF SEEING ONE PLACE”

Dorina Musaj.........................................................................372 “LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK CONFLICTS AND THEIR IMPACT IN GENERATING THE PHENOMENON OF COASTALIZATION”

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COEXISTENCE THROUGHT ARCHITECTURE MITROVICË, KOSOVA Student: Supervisor:

Albana Morina Antonino Di Raimo

This dissertation topic discusses the impact of architectural interconnection and coexistence of various communities within a territory, and the impact of this ideology on the life and vitality of the city. The analyses went through the history of the city, social relationships between different ethnic groups of the time, the city’s development in various aspects, the reasons which have influenced the worsening of the situation, the problems which occur in the city, their importance for the different groups, citizens feelings regarding the coexistence among them and the reasons for and against it.

The city of Mitrovica is presented first, specifically, a detailed description of the city from its formative years totoday. Afterwards, cities bearing noticeable similarities to Mitrovica were presented as examples and the possibilities of applying similar methods in Mitrovica could be explored. The methods used for this research study were interviews, questionnaires, information on the history of the city authorities, literature and, | 366

of course, internet sources. The results of the research analyzed and interpreted the process and reasons for the city being in its current urban situation. Regarding the economic situation and readiness of cooperation shown by residents when it comes to economy, this thesis proposed the construction of a business incubator that would serve both parts of the business. This facility would be located in the neutral zone, near the bridge over the Ibar River, with the motto “Bridges unite people”. The business incubator would serve small and medium businesses which would be led by people with different nationalities. The aim was to give them the possibility of contact and create new rapports in a neutral zone, where neither party will feel the pressure of prejudice from the community to which they belong.

The aim is that the facility not only be used for business but also for cultural and social activities. The city of Mitrovica has a shortage of cinema, theater and halls where cultural activities could take place.

URBAN DESIGN - A CONTRIBUTE TO ENERGY EFFICIENCY Student: Supervisor:

Ardi Dhima Arben Shtylla

An urban designer has to take into consideration various amenities and facilities that are to be incorporated in a town. There are two major energy consumer sectors in the cities, the building sector and the transportation sector.

Because the urban designer determines the orientation of the buildings, so they can have a better access to sunlight and natural ventilation, the main focus of the urban designer must be to solve (and/ or reduce) the energy consumption in the transportation sector.

Urban Design has to contribute to the Buildings’ energy efficiency as the primary energy consuming sector at city level. The design of each structural unit and, at a smaller scale of each block, should take into consideration solar access and natural ventilation. Also, for each of these units an accompanying regulation should be written. The regulation (at city | 368

or unit level) should explain the energy efficiency policy. These policy packages should include building energy codes and energy labeling schemes that aim to reduce the energy demand of both new and existing buildings, without compromising comfort levels. Reducing energy demand will lower pollution levels by cutting unnecessary power generation and will also reduce urban heat island effects.

Urban Design should ocus on transport as the second energy consuming sector at a city level. Transport design must be efficient in order to reduce energy consumption. Mixing shopping and work areas with residential areas can also save energy by reducing the average distances city dwellers need to travel on a normal day.

The results of this research study show possible resolutions of the energy consumption problem through the design of polycentric urban structures. The central-

ization of all various important amenities and facilities has to be incorporated. This will help reduce the distance of people travelling from various points in town. The shape and form of the town and the road network should be designed on such a way that the walking distance from any point in town is no longer than a 7-10 minute walk. Encouraging people to travel by foot will help reduce the need for two-wheel and four-wheel vehicles and will help in saving fuel. Saving fuel will diminish travelling costs as well as help conserve non-renewable sources of energy.

The process of planning should be based on the “work where you live and live where you work� theory. The city divided into structural units with mixed functions, residential and services, introduces the idea of a Polycentric City, a city organized in several centers.

This thesis proposal suggests the creation of several poles of development that will serve in the accommodation of several key functions in the development of the city. These poles aim to bring the services near the citizens, thus stimulating not only a better quality of life in the existing residential zones, but also concentrate the population near those areas in which every facility is located within walkable distances and without having the need to use motorized transport vehicles. In conclusion, we might say that this project proposes a more functional transportation system, as the second energy consumer of the city.

Three important POINTS on the site

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Mehmet II al-Fatih - Conqueror, only eight years after the fall of Constantinople. It is located in the heart of the old city center, and is the largest mosque and most prominent Pristina. Its cupola was once the largest in the region, while today it is the only mosque built by Sultan Mehmet II still survives in these areas.

The square in front of the Mosque has always been a popular place for meetings

The patterns and motifs on kilim rugs have a symbolic language. Thus, any of symbolic, iconic or indexical motifs (signs) on kilim rugs can help transfer the cultural data of that time to the present day, therefore kilims are media of ttransferring cultural heredity as well.

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was a wealthy citizen of Pristina and Skopje governor in 1842. According to inscriptions inside the mosque, it was built in 1834. Original gate is destroyed by expansion of the traffic road

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The building of the Austro-Hungarian style, initially built for the regional administration of Kosovo. From 1945 until 1975, it served as headquarters for the National Yugoslav Army From1963, it is Museum Kosovo with collection of extensive archaeological and ethnological artifacts

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One continuous meandering line, an ecological spine that wanders through the park to frame distinct and memorable "Parks within the Park", reconnecting history environment , recreation and edu education.

This wandering line, rich with woodland walks and outlooks, combines architecture and landscape to enhance the topography of the site, • link multiple programs, and offer dynamic views of the park. From the city to the park, Once there was a fundamental part of complex King Mosque (Fatih) and has served as social meeting the park to the historic monuments, and from the historic monuments to the ecological place for both men and City women. According to legend, Sultan Mehmet Al-Fatih has ordered all workcorridor and recreational places, design for Culture heritage Park weaves ers, who worked on the construction of Fatih mosque Hamam to have a right to be washed every day. tapestries of prior histories and new futures into a place where the Following a fire 1994 was severely destroyed and lost its functionality. Nowadays becoming restoration natural and manmade identities, cultivation and civilization Historic Building are free to wander and overlap – inviting both the Mosque of Llap citizens of Pristina and visitors around the world to create their own tapestry of new experiences

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Ma Was built in 1953 to pay tribute to the heroes of battle of Kosovo. The tower 25m was designed by Aleksandar Deroko is of stone set in the middle of a large concrete base which have been added later and to circular concrete tubes that have been added after the original base construction. It is in the shape of a medieval tower. The Tower is reached from the Pristinë - Mitrovicë highway, on a 50 m hill above the plain, ca. 5 km north-west from Pristina.

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Build by his son Bayazid in 14th century. It is believed that the tomb is in the same spot where he died at the Kosova Battle. The mausoleum of Sultan Murad is a small, pleasant, domed structure made of stone which looks like a mosque without a minaret. It is one of the oldest Ottoman monuments in Balkan and is one of the most visited religious, historic and cultural monuments in Kos Kosovo. Descendants of the sultan’s Turbedary family (tomb-keeper in Turkish) have maintained the tomb site for over six centuries, hosting thousands of visitors.

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The developing a suggested program is based on community feedback, analysis of physical opportunities of the site, and professional expertise of municipal official and proffesionals.

Program Opportunities This park has three distinctive areas of focus that recommends building a program to encompass: • Organize: The park should serve as the central location for ‘organizing the visitor experience’ in the Cultural heritage park area.

• Celeb Celebrate: The Park can serve as the premier outdoor event space for celebrating the heritage, culture, and special events that make this Park unique.

• Sustain: Reflective of community priorities, this park should focus on sustainable practices.

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MULTIPLE WAYS OF SEEING ONE PLACE Cultural Heritage park, Prishtine, Kosova Student: Supervisor:

Donika Cetta Juncaj Loris Rossi

‘Any landscape is a condition of the spirit’ Henri FrédéricAmiel - Amiel’s statement creates the connection between the physical landscape, the sense of mind and spirit of the people. A sense of identity and belonging is one of the deepest human needs. It connects people with the natural and cultural landscapes and the way we identify the landscape from an outside perspective as well as from within. Landscapes are not only beautiful views of a place that we see with our eyes; they also refer to the way our brain and soul conceives and interprets of what is it exactly that we see. We assign spiritual importance and meaning to landscapes and, therefore, landscapes can be thought as a cultural construct created by our memories and sense of existence of the place.

This paper explores some of the associated ideas of cultural landscape and memory and the ways in which landscape permeates much of our thinking of who we are. With this objective in mind, we focus on the north region of Pristina as a historic cultural landscape. This study is developed in the following steps.

The study begins with laying out | 370

the historical, geographical and urban context of the chosen site. It continues with the discussion of the historical development of Pristina through the years , the loss of the green environment, and the degradation of the city from the uncontrolled sprawl.

The study emphasizes the importance of the cultural heritage sites for the citizens of Pristina, focusing on the Cultural Heritage Park through the complexity of historic events and environmental features through history. Ideas for its understanding, shaping and transformation through revitalization are presented as well as functional reorganization offering space to create opportunities for cultural and recreational activities, transforming it from a degradation site to a highly frequented location.

The revitalization of the Cultural Heritage Park can yield toan improved quality of life for all and, above all, a sense of a better place for citizens. In this way, architectural heritage becomes a potential major tourist and recreational facility and thus, the cultural heritage landscape establishes a local economy for its residents.

scale 1:2000

Golf Fields

LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK CONFLICTS AND THEIR I MPACT IN GENERATING THE PHENOMENON OF COASTALIZATION Student: Supervisor:

Doriana Musaj Altin Mihali

This thesis argues about the legislative and institutional overlapping in managing the territory of Golem area and the consequences that these conflicts have in generating the coastalization phenomenon.

Analyzing the importance of legal and strategic documents in the development of tourism, and the analysis and observation of the situation on the ground, will conclude with a clear picture of collisions and conflicts which will then lead to the following recommendations on legal and planning instruments necessary for the development of tourism in Albania today. Civil society, private entrepreneurs, foreign and local tourists, all agree that the current situation is totally chaotic.

Failure to clarify the ownership of securities, non-implementation of planning | 372

instruments or territory management, non-implementation of property laws etc. has brought consequences in the territory in the form of informal or illegal settlements, thus increasing the number of buildings and the loss of green territories along the coast. This growth has created cities that are populated during the summer and are completely abandoned during the fall and winter.

The process of clarification involves the process of property restitution to the former owner; the conclusion of the registration system of properties; clarification and avoiding overlapping of institutions responsibilities, especially institutions requiring a construction permit or control permit. The informal or illegal situation must and should be improved, in order to remedy the problems creat-

ed by the application of “build and sell� schemes.

The need for planning politics reforms on the territory isurgent. Even though the system has existed from the early‘90s, the reform has to include different interests like: a deep technical knowledge of urban planning (as a new discipline) and the strengthening of institutional capacities in this discipline.

In order to draft a long term policy and strategy on the development of tourism, an appropriate coastal institution should be formed. This coastal body should have the principal task of reconciling the conflicting interests among the users of the coastal resources. Priority has to be given to the accommodations unit and enterprises by the local and central politics and regulations, in order to stimu-

late the growth of the category of structures with an average capacityof 60-70 rooms.

The legislative framework on coastal planning needs to be completed with provisions regarding the participation of local government units in the creation of higher level spatial plans; the establishment and management of a spatial information data system registry; the procedures for the amendment and supplementation of existing plans; the mechanisms for citizen participation in the creation of spatial plans and the separation of the legal part for the legalization of informal constructions from the planning law.

ART &

DESIGN

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2011-2014

Art & Design 2012 - 2013 BACHELOR [BSc]

MASTER OF SCIENCE [MSc]

Ana Hoxha..................................................................378 Joana Dhiamanti........................................................392 ”DEA STUDIO [re-branding]”

“LIGHT and SHADOW”

Durim Hoti...................................................................380 Lisiana Pirro................................................................394 “ZOGU CONSTRUCTION [re-branding]”

“ALTERNATIVE DESIGN”

Kreshnik Ilazi..............................................................382 Saimir Kristo...............................................................396 “CONCORN [furniture design]” “SPACE MOVES / IMPRINTING SPACE”

Klaudia Sorra.............................................................384 “CIKO MILK”

Serena Leka...............................................................386 “GIUILANOVA TELEFONIA”

Xhesika Berisha..........................................................388 “UNDERGROUND CLUB”

Xhoi Musliaka.............................................................390 “ART DIRECTION “LAKE” MOVIE”

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Sonia Jojiç...................................................................398 “DESIGN FOR ORIENTATION”

BRANDING / RE-BRANDING

THE CASE OF “DEA” ARCHTECTURE STUDIO, TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Ana Hoxha Gëzim Qëndro

This research thesis is focused on graphic design and the massive communication strategies of an architectural studio. The project focuses on transforming or completely changing the existing brand image which seems to inaccurately represent its success and future objectives. Apart from being a very challenging project as it was keen on achieving a very interesting and notable conclusion, the rebranding concerned an architecture studio, the visual marketing of which is very important.

Given the case study of Dea Studio (an architecture, urban planning, and engineering studio), the first step was to understand its specificity and philosophy of working.The philosophy of the studio | 378

is related with the one Vitruvius calls “de architectura”, based on three important concepts, which claim that architecture must last temporally , be functional, yet satisfy aesthetical needs.

Important information regarding this project includes consultations with local and internationally qualified architects who are members of this studio.

These consultations will also serve to understand the level of communication and the target of marketing. Furthermore, international cooperation with studios as like Atena Studio, HijjasKasturi Architects and AschwartzBesnosoff Architects have made Dea Studio one of the most important architecture studios in Albania and internationally known.

COMPANY RE-BRANDING

THE CASE OF “ZAOGU CONSTRUCTION” COMPANY TIRANA Student: Supervisor:

Durim Hoti Gëzim Qëndro

This research thesis investigates the relation between identity and image branding with the intention of designing the image of a company. Brands are able to differentiate a company from its competitors, but the risk is that misalignments between brand identity and image can mislead and turn off consumers. Therefore, it is important to have a set of visual values and principles that the firm must follow in order to develop its identity.

The research project is focused on the case study of Zogu Construction, which is one of the first construction companies in Kosovo, founded in 1947. Based on the theoretical research, the project focuses on creating the image of the company, | 380

representing its vision and the internal desired image that the company wants to communicate to a specific target group according to its philosophy. Different solutions are discussed and evaluated.

As a finalization of the work, the thesis concludes by designing the identity of a corporation and arguing about different solutions.

The final project creates a branding image for Zogu Construction, as well as a representative logo, trade signs, a palette of colors used throughout national and international marketing that would distinguish and immediately indicate the company

PRODUCT / FURNITURE DESIGN DESIGNING A SOFA - CONCORN Student: Supervisor:

Kreshnik Ilazi GĂŤzim QĂŤndro

This research thesis is focused on product design inspired by traditional elements. During the last two decades in Albania, national design products are missing, with the exception of artisanal products. Therefore, most of the design products used are actually imported. Being part of a globalised market, we can access almost every kind of foreign design product, but the challenge of this thesis is to design a new product based on an Albanian traditional one and in continuity with our tradition. Specifically, the project will focus on the design of a modern sofa which mixes elements belonging to different periods of time, materials, or social classes, as well as combinations of | 382

contrasting colors.

The aim of the research is to propose an innovative sofa, inspired by traditional motives that can be used in different spaces and situations highlighting our national character and identity but which are also attractive for the foreign market.

In addition, the innovative sofa has a well-developed ergonomic design and comfortable principles.

The result is the executed and detailed project, a prototype with materials and colors that can be tested and a full explanation of the possible industrial production in series.

PACKING & BRANDING

THE CASE OF “CIKO MILK” COMPANY TIRANA, ALBANIA Student: Supervisor:

Klaudia Sorra Gëzim Qëndro

This research thesis deals with product branding design strategies. In particular, this project is focused on the implementation of a new product brand and identity for a milk industry, thus aiming to work on a distinguishing image, in order to best brand the product. The identity of a firm comprises packaging, logo, and the exterior of one’s factory.

Especially in the milk industry, the competition is getting stronger and the necessity to be distinguished is essential.

First, the research included a study and investigation of similar products in Albania and abroad. This helped establish a familiarity with what the Albanian market contains (in the branding field) and what | 384

successful foreign companies design. After creating Ciko’s Milk identity, visiting several milk-packing companies was very important in order to get the physical impact of what was designed.

The final product is the logo, which is the identifying element of all the products. Moreover, all products are recognized by packaging and shape; however, there are minor differences in terms of colors, in cases of different types of products. Furthermore, the models included bottles of different sizes, transparent and non-transparent packaging, dresses of the service personnel, vehicle branding, etc.

GIULIANOVA TELEFONIA ITALY REBRANDING A COMPANY IDENTITY Student: Supervisor:

Serena Leka Gëzim Qëndro

The research thesis is focused on marketing research and the target group’s preferences regarding the Telefonia Company branding. Branding is a fairly complicated subject. Typically, the company’s manager and the designer are trying to figure out how to brand the company, or how to find a way in which the company will be unique and find a place in the customers’ mind; but it’s really not about what the manager and the designer want; branding really relies on the perception of the client. Marketing research is very important in order to find out what the potential client wants. | 386

The main goal for this study is to understand audience and what it thinks about company. The next step is how to capitalize (or fix) that perception. That’s branding! Taking into consideration the importance of branding, and knowing that the project was about to be implemented, the GiulianovaTelefonia G-Tel S r l case was used, as they were willing to invest. Design is important and getting to know the implementation of the project on site is really open minded and necessary.

The final product was the company’s logo and its graphic identity.

UNDERGROUND CLUB ALTERNATIVE INTERIOR DESIGN Student: Supervisor:

Xhesika Berisha GĂŤzim QĂŤndro

This research thesis is focused on mixing creative tools and a functional logic of space in interior design. The main problem in designing interior spaces in Albania is that, usually, they are conceived as a simple selection and positioning of furniture, without an overall aesthetic and functional concept.

This interior design project is the case study of the interior transformation of an underground club. This research based the interior design proposal not only on the aesthetic image of the interior, but also takes into consideration the functionality of space.

The philosophy of the project is based on the principle that even enormous houses can lack space if they have a poor interi| 388

or design, while a tiny apartment can be transformed into a cozy residence with enough space for everything with the right design and the use of contemporary elements. Interior design is much more important than it may seem at a first glance and can be easily compared with the importance of architecture, at least when it comes to interior. The inspiration for this project came after a thorough research on similar underground projects. Finally, this design project was mainly influenced by modern futuristic lines, which added many unique features to the space.

The final result experiments with this new design language and materializes it with custom-made furniture, new materials and, especially, light design elements.

ART DIRECTION “LAKE” MOVIE Student: Supervisor:

Xhoi Musliaka Gezim Qendro

The thesis research is focused on the role of the art director in a film and explores his work step by step. An art director is responsible for all of the artistic and visual designs used for the film production.

An art director is like a vehicle with a constant source of ideas, the most important of which is intuition and improvisation. Working on a film project requires a maximal commitment and the hard work of staff and actors. | 390

This research develops the production of the short film, “The Lake” as a case study.

It begins with the study of the script, plans the entire look of the actors, and tries to best translate desired moods, messages, concepts, and underdeveloped ideas into imagery.

The final product of this thesis is a design of the characters’ look and costumes according to the script’s description.

LIGHT AND SHADOW

BUNKERS AS SANTUARIES OF WARSHIP Student: Supervisor:

Joana Dhiamanti Antonino Di Raimo

This thesis is dealing with the dual of light/shadow. This happens in different levels. Mainly in a more abstract and wide framework (psychology, art, social, architecture) being related with the concept of materiality, space, volume, atmosphere, emotion and sense. Having as a focus the investigation and development of an architectural approach that engages the dual of light/shadow. This engagement is aimed to interpret virtually and visually the concept of “divin| 392

ity” into a spatial experience. But what consists of divinity and what we consider “divine” in our living context, in Albania.

A country that declares itself to believe in “Albanism”,[ Jacques, Edwin. The Albanians, an ethnic history from prehistoric times to the present.] in the freedom of our multi-religious society.How this concept can be contained in an architectural space, can we use the already existing structures along the cities [such as the bunker domes] as meeting and merging

points to create an inter-dialectic space among the three main religions in Albania ?By transforming one of the most important elements of our communist heritage [a bunker], architecture has to deal with crucial cultural and social needs and engage the spatial design in order to create a dual of individual/communal worship space through the use of other duals such as light/shadow, materiality/space, atmosphere/sense.To summarize the objective of this study is to investigate and

to determine the framework of architecture as a cultural discipline and the light as a cultural practice. The architectural space would be the material bridge between divinity, body and space through materiality and the re-birth of important elements of our cultural background that defines this new spatial experience.

Keywords: Light, Shadows, Materiality, Space, Volumes, Divinity

ALTERNATIVE MAGAZINE Student: Supervisor:

Lisiana Pirro Antonino Di Raimo; Eno Barjami

This research thesis deals with information design and, particularly, magazine design. The thesis specifically explores the relationship between content strategy and design. Being in a global, social, economic, culturally-elastic and mediatic frame, an alternative project comes as a solution. Therefore, the focus of this study is the design of a new magazine focused on art, architecture, and design. In this case study, the specific content of the magazine makes the design strategies harder to be defined.

First, the research consists in defining some parameters in terms of quality and innovation referring to Europe’s quality standards. Afterward, the research will | 394

investigate similar magazines with the challenge of creating a new mediatic publishing product, with a powerful concept, for the Albanian market.

The aim of the project is to propose an innovative and attractive design which can be successful in the local market. In addition, part of the design process is the digital distribution, promotion, and marketing. In conclusion, the constant elements of the magazine were defined as well as the possible details which could be changed in different editions. After printing it, the work was focused on the digital platforms, including the website and social networks.

The artifical again axis of the automobiles that move and create their own circulation and communication system, together with the human level of movement and operation.

T

T T T

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SPACE MOVES / IMPRINTING SPACE Student: Supervisor:

Saimir Kristo Antonino Di Raimo

The case study of crowd behavior in the city of Tirana, is the result of the metanational breakdown of its syntax. Tirana is developed with its two main axis, a natural and an artificial one between the organically sprawled city that serves as an example for its unique crowd structure.

The movement within the city but also through its nearby districts works in two parallel levels . These two levels are the main organizational structure on which the city operates. This synthesis might by quite common for a quite big number of cities in the region or even in the world, but the case of Tirana is the one where we | 396

can find isolated types of movements and crowd behavior in a single study area.

There are two major approaches for computational modeling of crowd behavior. From the objective perspective, there is a physically-based approach, which regards individuals in the crowd as physical particles; and from the subjective perspective, there is an agentbased approach. The individual particles in the crowd are modeled as autonomous agents that interact according to a predefined set of rules that this thesis topic investigates.

DESIGN FOR ORIENTATION SYSTEMS FOR THE HISTORIC CITY OF GJIROKASTRA Student: Supervisor:

Sonia Jojiç Elvan Dajko

This research project is mainly focused on information design and way finding as a tool of facilitating orientation in historically-important cities, with the final aim of promoting local heritage.

Albania is well known for its cultural richness, parts of which are its historic cities, still holding on to their natural and architectonic values. An important part of this kind of heritage is Gjirokastra, known as the city of stone, the case study of which is developed in this research. Since ancient times, the region of Gjirokastra was mentioned because of its positioning spread through many important trade paths. Urban development turned Gjirokastra into an important city, dated in to the second half of the 13’Th century. Gjirokastra’s treasure in terms of architecture and cultural values is its traditional | 398

dwellings.

This work focused on explaining what the information of design and the way of finding it is, where and how it should be applied, creating an easier orientation method in historic cities like Gjirokastra. Furthermore, a detailed research was applied through choosing the appropriate materials and colors, in order to make the signaling tables and signs uniform and to harmonize them with the general image of the city. In addition, a detailed analysis of the city of Gjirokastra was made and was used as an important input for the map in terms of locating the points of the orientation system.

The final project is a proposed information design with possible locations for the signs and a series of rules to deal

Art & Design 2013 - 2014 BACHELOR [BSc]

MASTER OF SCIENCE [MSc]

Eno Goxha..................................................................402 Rrezart Struga...........................................................424 ”HOUSING CONCEPT FOR MODULARITY CONSTRUCTION” Irida Guri....................................................................404 “CC BOX”

Ilva Qejvanaj..............................................................406 “1 MAY KINDERGARDEN”

Kozma Mata..............................................................408 “FLY ZONE”

Kiara Hysa.................................................................410 “PRINCESS ARGJIRO”

Julia Janku..................................................................412 “IMAGINE AND THE MUSIC VIDEO”

Krist Nikolla................................................................414 “ALBANIAN ANIMATED MOVIE” Kibela Nasufi.............................................................416 “ENERGY AND VACUM”

Hekuran Dylazeka....................................................418 “DYLAZEKA COMPANY” Maria Tasho................................................................420 “MINT GRAPHIC”

Monika Poreçi.............................................................422 “BRANDING ALBANIA”

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”GO KART”

HOUSING CONCEPT FOR MODULARITY CONSTRUCTON INTERIOR DESIGN Student: Supervisor:

Eno Goxha Saimir Kristo

This thesis deals with the architectural design research and project of a loft modular construction for a single person. A loft is an apartment that only has one huge space with no walls for separate living spaces such as a bedroom, living room, or kitchen, but in this case is in two levels. Being a small modular construction, the space is small. Therefore, the choice for furniture should make the space seem inviting and spacious. In a loft, you need furniture that’s not only stylish and chic but also versatile and useful for dividing the space.

The challenge of the project was keeping the thin balance between two volumes inside the module, the volume of empty space and the volume of physical space, | 402

while proposing a comfortable and intimate space.

The volume of empty space gives the freedom needed to live and work, while the physical volume is meant to be the support for the other one. Both volumes are designed to support each other and offer pleasant comfort living to the client. The bottom part of the dwelling is designed to have immediate access to the space inside and outside. The feeling achieved develops a good atmosphere in both environments, making them familiar and welcoming.

The final product is a conceptual proposal of a modular loft design solution.

CC BOX Student: Supervisor:

Irida Guri GĂŤzim Qendro

This research thesis is focused on possibility of the multiple adaptive use of the same product design. The present economic condition is characterized by an increasing market demand for customized products. Multiple-adaptive product design represents the solution for the new market challenges. Moreover, in Albania, living in small spaces has influenced the choice of transformable products that can have multiple uses but does not occupy space.

Nevertheless, transformable and mix-used product design is complex. The development of a methodology of design related to the transformable product must take into account, during the design process, the different uses of the product. This needs a great number of product | 404

variants that can be generated and can be adapted to different demands.

This thesis proposes the development of a “CC box� which can be transformed in a chair, table, bed and chaise, accomplishing functional and ergonomic demands and proposing a simple and user-friendly process of transformation.

Far from being beautifully decorated, this design object is more practical and economical; in other words, adapted to special design criteria. Products with such design characteristics that fulfill these demands are more preferred.

In conclusion, the final product was used and shown in different transformation phases in a series of household environments and were illustrated through the technique of photomontage.

INTERIOR DESIGN

1 MAY KINDERGARDEN Student: Supervisor:

Ilva Qejvanaj Gëzim Qendro

This research thesis is focused mainly on kindergartens’ interior design as creative and imaginative spaces for play. Kindergarten is the first educational and social place that children experience.

It should be a fun, social, and relaxing environment. However, in the Albanian context, these spaces are very poor and uninspiring.

Starting from this situation, the research project took as a case study the revitalization of the existing environments the of “1st of May” kindergarten, located in a favorable and highly frequented area in Durrës.

The project consists in revitalizing the space and giving a new image to it, from which the kindergarten would im-

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prove its public image, as well as its performance with the children. The inspiration came from the famous movie “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”, because chocolates and sweets are things kids love. The purpose was to create something unique and special, different from any existing kindergarten in Durres, more inspirational and challenging, thought- provoking and uplifting. Thus, in addition to a comfortable, safe and inspiring space, the concept was to create a colorful, absorbing and organic environment.

The final product illustrated through renders is a space in which anyone would feel a participant, open for transformation by children through inventiveness and creativity.

INTERIOR DESIGN

FLY ZONE CLUB Student: Supervisor:

Kozma Mata GĂŤzim Qendro

This research thesis deals with interior design and, in particular, to club design, which is currently becoming important in Albania.

One of the main focuses in designing this kind of space was the lighting, intimacy of space, and comfortable furniture. The research also took into account the practical demands of the client for an inviting | 408

interior space by referring to the case study of Fly Zone Night Club.

The aim of the research was to offer an appropriate design solution to the specific needs of the nightclub, while, at the same time, contribute towards the in promotion of its image.

The final product is an interior design project of a nightclub in Tirana.

PRINCESHA ARGJIRO BOOK ILLUSTRATION Student: Supervisor:

Kiara Hysa Gëzim Qendro

This thesis project is about book and illustration design. Indeed, this topic allows enough space for personal creativity in artistic matters although there is a certain methodology and rules.

Thus, the research project is focused on techniques of illustration of children’s books, which allows the showing of abilities in design and illustrative creativity in a field relatively close to what we call “art”, but which is conditioned by the contents of the book.

The illustration project takes as case study the children’s book “Princesha | 410

Argjiro”, a poem by Ismail Kadare, which was never published accompanied by illustrations. Therefore, the selection was very important. Another motivation for this choice was the fact that the poem is inspired by an Albanian traditional legend.

The final product is the Indesign project of the book, with sketches of the story and an illustrated cover. Graphic illustrations are presented in a sequence and have an artistic language that fits the story.

MANIPULIMI NGA IMAZHI NJËJTËSIMI ME IMAZHIN

VIDEOJA MUZIKORE

KËNGA

për të krijuar një atmosferë specifike rrotull këngës

KRIJIMI I SPEKTAKLIT

FETISHIZMI

IMAZHI

Imazhi si mjet për t`i dhënë këngës identitet; krijimi i njëkonteksti

Efetshmëria e imazhit rrjedh nga njëjtësimi që shikuesi bën mes tij dhe vetes, prandaj është e lehtë të shfrytëzohet kjo lidhje

Raporti sociale mes personave, i ndërmjetësuar nga imazhet, i cili “gllabëron” shikuesin brenda vetes

+

të ndjellë një përgjigje të menjëhershme e të fortë emocionale, dhe të ndikojë mbi shikuesin

një gjini e artit të aplikuar, një film i shkurtër, që integron një këngë me imazhe apo grafika, e prodhuar për arsye artistike dhe promovimi

komunikon të dhëna në mënyrë më të efektshme dhe më të shpejtë

Lidhet me kthimin e imazhit në nj produkt konsumi të përditshëmë

IMAGE AND THE MUSIC VIDEO

THE ROLE OF IMAGE IN VISUAL COMMUNICATION, SEEN THROUGH THE PHENOMENON OF MUSIC Student: Supervisor:

Julia Janku Besnik Aliaj, Gëzim Qendro

This thesis concentrated on the layout design of for the 3rd issue of M.A.D Magazine, an issue which centers around the lecture on “Video Killed the Radio Star”, by prof. B. Aliaj; a research work on the impact of image on the music video and creating a concept for an exhibition based on the two first issues.

The use of image is not simply one of the most effective means of communication, but also one of the earliest; always in simultaneous | 412

development with every aspect of human society. Its impact seems to be growing by the day; actually, we live in a time when society can actually be considered as being under the invasion of the image.

One of the fields that has been affected is music and, with it, comes the rise of the phenomenon of the music video. During the last decades, art, design and technology have been combined in many ways, creating new and alternative varia-

tions of human expressionism, which have served as the basis for the use of the image, in all its forms, giving to it also the opportunity to exert a huge impact on human behavior; in the relationship between people and image, or even between people among themselves.

The analysis of the history and development of image in music videos, becomes important nowadays, especially when we take into consideration the fact that the genre

of music video is a phenomenon which quickly propagates trends and enforces cultural models.

This thesis highlight the growth of the image`s power over society and clearly shows how the image has drawn attention towards even more important issues, such as the ones related with the doubt and the darkness created on the boundaries between using the image, or being used by it.

ALBANIAN ANIMATED MOVIE Student: Supervisor:

Krist Nikolla Gëzim Qendro

This research thesis explores the art of the moving image, learning to master the tools needed to articulate a creative vision, focusing on film animations for children.

Albanian cinematography has been mostly related to the “Shqiperia e Re” film studio, founded in 1952. Since the 70’s it was a modest studio regarding the number of movies that were produced.

However, after the 70’s it started becoming more important, producing more than 14 movies, 40 documentaries and 16 animated movies per year. The first Albanian animated movie was created by Vlash Droboniku and Tomi Vaso with the music of Limoz Dizdari. Since then, Albanian cinematography counts almost 200 animated films. They were very important | 414

during the communist regime, as a frail hope inside a grey reality.

The thesis starts by researching online information about animated films.

Yet, almost nothing is found on the Albanian ones. Thus, the search had to go farther than books.

The purpose was to find out about Albanian animated movies, why so few movies are produced and why is it so hard to find them. This study intended to bring into the collective memory our own tradition in animated films.

The research goes further, taking as a case study the children’s animated movie, “Pipiroku“ and proposing a new design.

The final product is a series of story– boards which are a partial draft of the new design proposal for this movie.

ENERGY AND VACUM BOOK ILLUSTRATION Student: Supervisor:

Kibela Nasufi GĂŤzim Qendro

This research thesis focuses on a design of a city catalog that represents a topic related to the urban development situation in the city. The project deals with the Tirana case study, the way in which this city communicates with us, its impact and the emptiness it leaves, as well as its energy. It investigates the topic of the vacuum and energy referring to the last transformations of Tirana.

This catalog aims to read the city’s reality through photography, notice what | 416

is really happening, and notice how the happenings affect each other. Through this illustration, we should be able to derive our own conclusions about the vacuum in the city, its degradation and our role for the revitalization.

The final work is an illustrated catalog with the perception and impressions of Tirana. Part of it is a series of photographic images that better communicate this reality.

RE-BRANDING THE COMPANY

THE CASE OF DYLAZEKA COMPANY Student: Supervisor:

Hekuran Dylazeka Gëzim Qendro

This research thesis is focused in company branding, product design and package. In order for a company to be successful, the client’s needs and expectations for their product must be understood. As a result, the businesses’ relationship with the public must be of a major importance. Part of this relationship is the product’s branding.

Thus, this thesis focuses on branding the “Meat Company Dylazeka”. The research focused on this case study illustrated how the image of the company was developed, which were the factors that influenced the improvement of the image, | 418

the objectives and the strategy that the company has and its vision for the future.

In order to achieve a good result, the work went through many steps, namely analyzing its history, research, analysis, and competition, the existing image of the company, its expectations and the final proposal.

The final result is the design of all the products of the company including, the Logo Design, corporate identity, food packaging, the Meat Logo, vehicle design, and a brand plan that will help promoting its products.

BRANDING THE COMPANY

THE CASE OF MINT GRAPHIC DESIGN STUDIO Student: Supervisor:

Maria Tasho Gëzim Qendro

This research thesis is about branding design. Moreover, the research deals with the image of a graphic design studio. Referring to “Mint Graphic,” a concrete case study of a graphic studio, the research is trying to bring new ideas to branding design, industrial design and interior design. The study for the topic went through many stages. Everything started with the will to create the identity of a brand through graphic design. When the project started, it needed to take into consideration what was being designed, its representation and the high expecta| 420

tions regarding the product. In order to achieve these goals, what needed to be designed was something that would best symbolize this profile in the field of design.

The design project proposes to use the pensile as part of the logo, to better associate the logo with the character of the studio.

The final product is the logo design, business cards, envelopes, letterhead, stickers, a portfolio with the brand, and other personalized products.

BRANDING ALBANIA Student: Supervisor:

Monika Poreçi Gëzim Qendro

This research thesis investigates image branding in Albania regarding the promotion of tourism. It mainly focuses on the design aspects. Branding is a field which carefully treats the image of a company, business, product, or as in this case, “city branding”.

The creation of a branding image for Albania goes through the same process, as success is absolutely related to graphic representation in order to impress the tourist. After this initial impression, he will be introduced to the offered services. Albania has been treated as a | 422

product needing to be served to an audience through branding and image.

The research’s aim is to produce, through design and branding, the historical and environmental local values.

The trinity of mountain beauty, beautiful beaches and history is represented in the brand, through e different color tonalities.

The final product is a brief guide to Albania’s main attractions, a branding logo, an informative website, an advertising poster and brochures.

GO- KART BRANDING ALBANIA Student: Supervisor:

Rrezart Struga GĂŤzim Qendro

The topic is really complex and difficult, especially when you re-try to re-bring something new in Albania. The product was treated in the external design but also in mechanical part with different elements. Interventions consists in building the chassis, imporving engine, loom setting and determing the external desig.

The research was based on the basic structure of a Go-KArt and then | 424

was imporved in steering system, breaking system, engine and overall system.

All changes are a result of compliance with the ordering and analysis in the real time.During the production and testing process, some data led changes in the final design.

The prototype now has all the power to be portable, functional and workable. All systems are functional and prototype is ready for a runaway.

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