Dutch-based architecture firm MVRDV has started construction of the Skanderbeg Building in Tirana, Albania. The 85-meter-tall mixed-use building dubbed Tirana's Rock has a face-like facade. Commissioned by investors ANA and VI&VI, the project is designed to commemorate the nation’s cultural history. Further, local architecture studio Sfera Studio also remodelled it. Read SURFACES REPORTER (SR)’s complete report below:
Also Read:MVRDV Turns Neglected Under Flyover Spaces Into A Cheerful Community Space in Mumbai
The Skanderbeg Building is under construction on an "awkwardly shaped site" at the square's northeastern corner, which it has been designed to fill out.
Winy Maas, founder of MVRDV says that the project underscores "Albania's history, character, and presence" as the country begins its negotiations to join the European Union.”
Face Like Facade
Skanderbeg Building by MVRDV pays tribute to the nation's prominent historical figure Gjergj Kastrioti- a military commander known locally as Skanderbeg who revolted against the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century. The structure is designed on the bust of the renowned figure and resembles him. It has unique protrusions that echo a nose, ears, and beard.
"The resulting effect is somewhat subtle; people may need to look twice to understand the building's shape, depending on the angle from which they see it," said MVRDV.
Unusual Balconies
The amazing head-like look of the structure is largely achieved with curved balconies on every level. The project is under construction on an "awkwardly shaped site" at the square's northeastern corner. has impressively unique curved glass balconies. The project offers a new meaning to the existing elements of Albanian architecture.
"This expressive approach fits seamlessly into a city that has developed a tradition of mixing art and architecture as part of its post-communist renaissance."
Also Read: MVRDV Lays an Orange Carpet at 30m Height Bridging Rotterdam’s Buildings | Rotterdam Rooftop Walk
The firm created irregular balconies and ensured that the interiors have as rational a floor plan as possible. The balconies will be finished with built-in planters that are packed with native plants, segregating them up for adjoining apartments.
What it Comprises
Once complete, the project will comprise one level of commercial space and four levels of offices in the broadest part of it that looks like Kahstrioti’s shoulders. The top 20 floors are reserved for housing that is designed on Kahstrioti’s head.
The project allows ample natural light that reduces its energy requirements. The project has good rainwater harvesting facilities and a heat recovery system
Glass balustrades will have a gradient finish, giving a marble-like look. The building illuminates by lighting strips on the underside of the balconies at night.
Project Details
Architect: MVRDV
Founding partner in charge: Winy Maas
Co-architect: Sfera Studio
Partner: Stefan de Koning
Design team: Ronald Hoogeveen, Stavros Gargaretas, Angel Sanchez Navarro, Katarzyna Nowak, Karin Houwen, Jose´ Manuel Garcia Garcia, Renata Tavares
Project Coordination: Carla Sitarenios
Visualisations: Antonio Luca Coco, Angelo La Delfa
Visual courtesy: MVRDV
Keep reading SURFACES REPORTER for more such articles and stories.
Join us in SOCIAL MEDIA to stay updated
SR FACEBOOK | SR LINKEDIN | SR INSTAGRAM | SR YOUTUBE
Further, Subscribe to our magazine | Sign Up for the FREE Surfaces Reporter Magazine Newsletter
You may also like to read about:
MVRDV Creates Dome-Shaped Sun Rock That Can Generate Nearly One Million Kilowatt-Hours of Clean Energy Per Year
MVRDV Recycles Champagne Bottles To Create A Dazzling Jade-Like Facade For Bulgari’s New Store in Shanghai
And more…