studio libeskind & kontakt weave public gardens through curved residences in tirana

Magnet Residence forms a rhythmic urban composition

Magnet Residence is a large-scale residential development in Tirana, Albania, designed by Studio Libeskind in collaboration with Kontakt LTD. Situated within a key urban area of the city, the project spans approximately 150,000 sqm and weaves a high-density, mixed-use neighborhood that integrates architecture with landscape and public space. The design addresses the evolving urban and cultural context of Tirana, proposing a model for contemporary living that prioritizes connectivity, ecological responsiveness, and spatial openness. Organized around a network of pedestrian routes, public piazzas, and landscaped gardens, the project aims to create an active urban fabric that supports both communal interaction and residential privacy.

Residential buildings are arranged in a rhythmic formation, responding to the site’s orientation and natural light conditions. Apartments are designed to maximize daylight access, cross-ventilation, and views, with balconies and setbacks incorporated to mediate transitions between interior and exterior space. Transparent materials and articulated facades contribute to the permeability of the blocks, allowing for both visual openness and privacy.

all images courtesy of Studio Libeskind & Kontakt LTD

Studio Libeskind collaborates with Kontakt LTD for Magnet

The landscape design plays a central role in structuring the development. A network of internal courtyards, green spaces, and circulation paths encourages walkability and public use. These areas are programmed with amenities such as bicycle lanes, rest zones, and children’s play areas, contributing to a multi-generational residential environment. The architectural concept is rooted in local references while employing a contemporary formal language. Material choices and the articulation of massing reflect the intention to connect with the site’s context without replicating traditional typologies. The production process involved close collaboration between local architects, engineers, and Studio Libeskind’s design team.

Magnet Residence reflects a broader shift in urban development in Albania, aligning architectural form with environmental and social considerations. The project proposes a new typology for dense urban living, where public and private spaces are interdependent, and where the built environment supports long-term adaptability and spatial quality.

apartments are oriented to maximize natural light and ventilation

a central pedestrian network links residences to public piazzas

Studio Libeskind and Kontakt LTD collaborated to design the high-density development

buildings are arranged to form a rhythmic urban composition

balconies and setbacks mediate between indoor and outdoor spaces

courtyards are designed for communal use and visual openness

the landscape plan prioritizes walkability and daily interaction

each block contributes to an interconnected urban fabric

landscaped courtyards serve as shared green spaces between buildings

material choices reflect a connection to local context

contemporary forms reinterpret regional architectural references

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project info:

name: Magnet Residence

architect: Studio Libeskind | @daniellibeskind

client: Kontakt LTD

location: Tirana, Albania

area: 50,000 sqm