“Cami” Apartment Building

The Cami Apartment Building, designed by architect Artan Raca, represents a thoughtful approach to urban development in one of Tirana’s older neighborhoods on Qemal Stafa Street. This area, characterized by dense construction, aging apartments, and a mix of informal and communist-era buildings, presents significant challenges for modern urban planning and architectural intervention. Team: Anila Katundi, Elida Goga.

Project Vision

The Cami Building aims to set a precedent for future residential developments in the area, introducing a model that balances contemporary living standards with the constraints of an established urban fabric.

• Urban Integration:
  The project is conceived as part of a larger plan for the neighborhood, with the intention of gradually forming a cohesive urban design through similarly styled, minimal-area residential buildings situated close together.
• Challenges Addressed:
  • Intimacy: Maintaining privacy in a densely populated area was a key focus.
  • Ventilation and Lighting: Ensuring optimal airflow and natural light for all units despite proximity to neighboring structures.

Architectural Features

• Building Composition:
  • The structure is 7 stories tall and includes an underground garage.
  • The ground and first floors are allocated for commercial and office use, contributing to the neighborhood’s mixed-use character.
  • The upper floors are exclusively residential, with two apartments per floor.
• Residential Design:
  Each apartment features:
  • Two Bedrooms: Adequate space for families or individuals.
  • Living Room: Designed with an optimal layout to enhance functionality and comfort.
  • Ventilation and Lighting: Carefully planned to maximize natural airflow and sunlight.
• Balcony Innovation:
  The tube-shaped balconies are a standout feature, providing:
  • Light Entry: Allowing ample natural light into the apartments.
  • Privacy: Shielding residents from the view of neighboring buildings while maintaining an open and modern aesthetic.

Significance and Legacy

• Modern Design in a Historic Context:
  The Cami Building exemplifies how contemporary architectural solutions can be integrated into older, densely populated neighborhoods without disrupting their character.
• Pathway for Future Development:
  As part of a broader urban study, this building sets the tone for subsequent projects in the area, promoting sustainable and thoughtful urban renewal.
• Enhanced Living Standards:
  By addressing key issues such as privacy, ventilation, and lighting, the project offers residents a higher quality of life while contributing to the aesthetic and functional evolution of the neighborhood.

Legacy

The Cami Building is more than just a residential structure; it is a model for urban transformation in Tirana, illustrating how innovative design can navigate the challenges of dense, historic neighborhoods while paving the way for cohesive and modern urban development.