OODA’s ndarja multi-use building splits in two to create green urban void in tirana

OODA opts for a rotational design of the volumes forming fluid transitions between the street, square, and interiors.

christina vergopoulou November 15, 2024 4 min

OODA introduces Ndarja, an urban oasis in the Heart of Tirana

Portuguese-based architectural studio OODA introduces Ndarja, a multifunctional building in Tirana, designed as an urban oasis that integrates nature into the city’s fabric. Located on Myslym Street, in a district where historic and modern elements converge, the project reimagines the urban landscape by blending residential, hospitality, office, and commercial uses within a cohesive design.

The building consists of two fragmented volumes aligned along their narrow sides, creating a central void that forms a welcoming square. This space, surrounded by greenery and a reflective water feature, acts as a sanctuary for gathering and disconnecting from the city’s fast pace. The break between the volumes, achieved through a rotational design, allows for a fluid transition between the street and the building, while the water mirror draws natural light underground and establishes a fluid connection between the interior and exterior. Vegetation plays a central role in softening the structure’s presence, extending from the surrounding streets into the square and balcony gardens. This thoughtful integration of greenery fosters a microclimate that enhances the surrounding neighborhood. The square, no longer a mere passageway, is transformed into a functional urban oasis.

OODA's ndarja multi-use building splits in two to create green urban void in tirana - 1 — all visuals by Plomp unless stated otherwise

Ndarja’s earthy-toned facade blends into city’s visual continuity

On the ground and first floors, commercial spaces benefit from street-level visibility and accessibility. The upper levels accommodate a mixed-use program of residential apartments, office spaces, and a premium hotel. The volume facing Myslym Street includes diverse apartment layouts and a hotel with panoramic city views, while the volume along Pitarka Street hosts apartments and office spaces with dedicated lobbies for each function.

The earthy-toned facade blends harmoniously into the city’s visual continuity, while brises-soleil and perforated metal sheets regulate light, and provide privacy, while reflecting the activity on the balconies back into the city, mirroring the urban environment within. This dynamic interaction creates a sense of continuity between the building and its urban surroundings. The vegetation was strategically selected for resilience to local wind and sunlight conditions, ensuring sustainable green spaces that integrate harmoniously into the architecture. With Ndarja, the designers at OODA balance urban density with natural elements, creating an inviting and sustainable addition to Tirana’s cityscape.