ALBANIAN ARCHITECTS: VLORA RAMA BAHOLLI

A brief description of you, where you work, how many years of experience you have and your area of expertise.

My professional career in the field of architecture began in 1999 after graduating from the University of Pristina as an Architect, at this time I worked for several humanitarian organizations in the reconstruction of houses and facilities of various categories destroyed during the war in Kosovo -1999. During this period I have been involved in many practice areas, working closely with clients to gain and understand their goals and focus plans in the right direction. In 2000, with my architect husband Gzim Baholli, we founded our studio, Archides with a goal-vision to create authentic and sustainable architecture.

Why did you choose architecture? What was the spark that led you to this profession?

The spark that led me into this profession comes from a love of design and an interest in creating spaces that can inspire, challenge and support people in their everyday lives. Also the challenge of taking an idea and turning it into a reality.

What has been the most challenging project for you? Why?

The most challenging project among the many projects has been the Marigona Hill neighborhood with an area of ​​17.2 hectares with the variety of houses and other buildings around. A neighborhood with modern architecture where the goal of this project was to be as comfortable and functional as possible, creating a new standard of living. Interweaving different functions and distributing them in the right place was the main goal of this project. Marigona Hill strives to be an inclusive community, including homes, apartments, recreational and business spaces, all designed in a modern style with an interweaving of materials that make the neighborhood unique. The Marigona Hill project presents the category of residential buildings in a dignified manner.

What do you think of architecture and which is the project that best represents you?

Architecture is a complex and challenging profession that requires a lot of skill, creativity and attention to detail. Each project can come with its own unique set of challenges, depending on factors such as project scale, budget, location and specific requirements. The most challenging project among the many projects and yet the one that best represents us is the "Courtyard by Marriott" project in Pristina city center.

What advice would you give yourself at the beginning of your career, valid even for young architects or those girls/women who want to become architects? 

It is important to have confidence in your abilities and believe that you can succeed in this field. Be persistent: The road to success in architecture can be long and challenging, but persistence and persistence alone can be rewarding. Stay focused on your goals and keep working towards them. Foster a strong work ethic: Architecture is a demanding profession that requires a lot of hard work and dedication. Cultivate a strong work ethic and be willing to put in the effort necessary to succeed.

What inspires you in your work? (Artist/architect)?

Since the beginning of my work as an architect, my  inspiration comes from: nature, history, culture, materials and technology.

The beauty and complexity of the natural world has always been a great inspiration for me as an architect, as well as an inspiration from our Albanian tradition and culture.

Ultimately, a personal vision or a desire to express myself creatively and bring my unique ideas to life.

Three projects that you want us to feature on pikark.com

Marigona Hill, 2020

Neighborhood

Lake Villa, Ritcherswil-Zurich, 2016-2020

Villa

Zyra e Archides studio, 2010-2012