Ndarja: A Multi-Use Urban Oasis in the Heart of Tirana

Tucked into Myslym Street in the heart of Tirana, Albania, the Ndarja building introduces a striking interplay of architecture, nature, and urban functionality. This 41,000-square-meter project by OODA blends residential, commercial, hospitality, and office spaces into a thoughtfully designed structure that feels both rooted in and separate from its bustling surroundings.

Fragmented Volumes and a Tranquil Square

Ndarja’s design is centered around two fragmented, narrow-sided volumes that rotate slightly to create a unique architectural “break.” This break forms a central square—a serene urban retreat where visitors can pause and gather. Reflective water surfaces amplify natural light, while lush greenery links the square to the surrounding streets. The result is an open space that encourages a fluid connection between the building and its neighborhood, fostering a microclimate that softens the hard edges of urban life.

A Multi-Use Program Balancing Form and Function

The building’s diverse uses are layered effectively across its levels. The ground and first floors accommodate commercial spaces, taking advantage of their proximity to the street and foot traffic. Higher up, the volume facing Myslym Street offers a variety of apartment layouts and a premium hotel with expansive city views. On Pitarka Street, apartments are combined with office spaces, each with its own dedicated lobby. This separation of functions creates a sense of order while enhancing usability.

Subtle Integration with the Urban Fabric

Ndarja’s façade adopts an earthy tone palette, ensuring it harmonizes with Tirana’s urban landscape without demanding attention. Brises-soleil and perforated metal sheets add functionality and visual interest, regulating light and providing privacy while subtly reflecting the energy of the city back onto the building. Vegetation plays a key role in the design, with carefully selected plants integrated into balconies and public areas to provide shade, resilience, and aesthetic value.

Redefining the Relationship Between City and Architecture

The Ndarja project exemplifies a new way of thinking about urban spaces. Rather than dominating its environment, the building creates opportunities for connection and reflection. Its design integrates natural and built elements to improve the quality of life for its residents and the surrounding community. With its innovative use of space, light, and materials, Ndarja offers a contemporary interpretation of what a multi-use building can achieve in a dense urban setting.

By addressing functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability, the Ndarja building is more than a structure—it’s a thoughtfully designed piece of urban fabric that invites Tirana’s residents and visitors to experience the city in a fresh, restorative way.