Images carried in our memory when we think of Tirana

by ARKA

The five concept ideas introduced in this first series of Arka aim at improving the quality of life in the community and strengthening the emotional bond with Tirana. Diverse by type of intervention, these concept ideas are in sync with our mission of creating spaces that offer an extraordinary life experience. These proposals maximize social and economic potential, by following the principle “cheaper, faster, and of higher impact”. The promotion of the local heritage and resources fosters physical and mental well-being, encourages the harmonious interaction in the rural and urban context, and helps build an affective bond with nature and the city.

BRIDGE THE GAP

This proposed concept idea aims at turning The Tanners’ Bridge (Ura e Tabakëve) from a historic monument with a merely utilitarian function into a new public space which would serve as a “bridge” between Tirana’s past and its future. The transformation of the spaces around the Bridge will promote the people’s interaction with this monument and the community at large, thereby preserving the collective memory and encouraging the affective bond with the city. Thus, the Bridge will be transformed from an extremity to the Pedestrian Street (Pedonale) into a central public space, thus uplifting the heritage of Tirana, integrating the areas on its sides, and boosting the area’s property value.

BACK DOOR SQUARE

This proposed concept idea aims at turning an area with little life into a vibrant square that promotes the community’s well-being and economic activity. The revitalization of this space, which is currently surrounded by the backsides of several buildings, turns it into a new center for services, entertainment, and socialization, especially for children and elderly. Following the successful transformation of ARTurbina, this project will enhance the value of the residential and commercial properties, that have remained unused for decades. This simple and low cost intervention, will have a positive socio-economic impact as well as high visibility in the area of Tirana e Re.

TURTLE POND

Located in the north-western side of Ismail Qemali’s Park you can find one of the most beautiful, but least frequented, spaces of Tirana. The proposed concept idea aims at turning this part of the Park into one of the most preferred spaces in the city. The transformation of the nearby pond into the house of several species of freshwater turtles creates an oasis for meditation and for “natural” education in the city. People will be able to see turtles of various forms and sizes as they swim or bask in the sunshine. This space will be transformed into a place of cherished memories for children and their parents. The biology students of the University of Tirana will take care of this space as part of their school curriculum.

TIRANA RIVER TRAIL

This project aims at harmoniously connecting the urban and the rural context. It transforms the rural paths alongside the Erzen river bank into a bicycle path and a place of emotional journey. Linking the old road to Elbasan with Vaqarr, the pathway will extend further toward Ndroq and Peza. The project revitalizes one of the most beautiful natural areas of Tirana, promoting tourism, rural development, connection with nature, local values, tradition, and resources. This green route turns the area into the ideal destination for a weekend with the family, a picnic or lunch in the local guesthouses, or any kind of physical activity in nature. The lowland path, easily accessible by all age groups, will reduce the influx of people in the already busy Artificial Lake and the use of motorized vehicles. Thus, the project promotes alternative mobility and cycling as a means of transportation in the capital.

HIDDEN TREASURES OF TIRANA

This project aims at opening up a window into the authentic Tirana for foreign visitors and fostering an affective bond with the city. The cul-de-sacs are oases of tranquility, privacy, and community living. In them you can find Tirana’s layered history. They bear witness to the city’s development before, during, and after the communist period. In them you can find children playing, traditional buildings, gardens strife with flowers and fruit trees. Through a photography exhibition and the publication of an album the project aims at documenting and shedding light on their existence, creating an alternative tourist map of the city, and introducing some of the most charming alleys of Tirana. This world, which is there to be explored, has the power of carrying you back in time. With a map handy, Tirana’s hidden treasures are revealed to the world.