Primary school "Shyqyri Peza"

The reconstruction of the "Shyqyri Peza" school, is the focus of this project. The primary goal of this intervention is to improve the operational capacities of the school while also improving its urban and architectural presence by harmonizing with the surroundings and respecting the existing situation.

The "Shyqyri Peza" school, is situated in Administrative Unit No. 6 on the outskirts of Tirana, near "Haki Stërmilli" street. The main three-story structure, constructed in 1976, features a terrace and roof. Surrounded by residential buildings on both sides, the school lacks a protective barrier around its yard. The total area of the premises spans approximately 4319 m², with 3695 m² dedicated to outdoor spaces and 624 m² to the track surface. The school gym covers 118 m². Currently accommodating 1170 students, including 85 preschoolers across two classes, the school has 22 classes. Teaching occurs in two shifts, with 17 classes in the afternoon. This setup, with 695 students in the first shift and 475 in the second, leads to an overload on the school's limited capacity. The intervention aims to alleviate the school’s capacity overload and reconstruct the gymnasium.

The intervention aims to enhance the school's functionality and urban-architecture, considering the harmony of the interventions with the surroundings. The task at hand involves the creation of 10 new classrooms and the development of a gymnasium facility to rectify the shortcomings of the current gym.

The project outlines a plan for the removal of the existing gym, replacing it with a new group of classrooms that aligns with its previous footprint. Internally, the new cluster of classrooms seamlessly extends from the existing structure, offering a continuous learning environment. The new volume is proposed to be repositioned near the open sports fields, ensuring a better functional connection between these two environments. A green belt has been proposed around the perimeter of the school, which will serve as a barrier. This extension also incorporates a set of stairs and an elevator to ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities. The new gymnasium is strategically positioned for easy access to the outdoor sports yard and is equipped with all the essential amenities required for optimal functionality.

One of the main features of the project is a metallic mesh which serves two functions: it provides shade and connects the old and new components of the building. Colour selection is also important in harmonizing the various components while appealing to the school's youthful occupants. Furthermore, the new volumes are differentiated from the existing ones by the window arrangements, guaranteeing that the intervention is distinguishable and, if necessary, easily reversible. The project design adheres to architectural parameters, prioritizing energy efficiency and meeting contemporary standards.