red concrete envelops CHYBIK + KRISTOF's ODA tirana complex

ODA Tirana by chybik + kristof (chk): albania’s new cultural hub

CHYBIK + KRISTOF (CHK) unveil the design of ODA Tirana, a competition entry for Tirana’s Center of Fairs and Exhibitions and mixed-use development international competition, at the heart of the Albanian capital. Inspired by ODA, the traditional space in Albanian culture for welcoming and meeting people, the mixed-use complex features residential, commercial, and public areas, celebrating communal and urban spaces. CHK strategically nestled the development between the New Boulevard and the New Central Park of Tirana, on 10,000 sqm of prime land.

Responding and contributing to the Albanian capital’s growth into a modern and dynamic city for the past decade, ODA Tirana features three towers, two of which are residential, standing at 180 and 160 meters high, while the third one houses offices and a hotel soaring at 100 meters high. Together with a sequence of public and semi-public spaces, the building connects the Boulevard with the central park creating an all-around wholesome voluminous complex. As for the building’s main feature , the architects placed the exhibition center in front of the towers, designing it to be as flexible as possible, quickly transforming from one single vast space to several varied ones in size and scale, with separate entry points.

all renderings courtesy CHK

red concrete and arches evoking traditional architecture

Facade-wise, CHK envisioned a distinguishable red concrete shell inspired from the Albanian building tradition and regional materials, fostering a sense of belonging and familiarity and allowing for easier integration within the local community. This discernable facade comprises pre-set plates for passive shading and preventing ODA Tirana from overheating. Certain locally sourced materials, such as stone, are used on some decorative surfaces and in detail, such as paving the piazza between the buildings.

CHK’s proposal embodies multifunctional urban spaces, forming a lively meeting hub for Tirana’s professionals, cultural enthusiasts, and locals alike through its interior and exterior. As an important marker of Albanian architecture, the arch element is seen in various significant national buildings. CHK places this prominent element as a focal point of the development at its base in the entrance area, providing a wholesome feeling of welcome to its locals all the while serving static purposes. Its monumental design is then replicated in the towers’ facades rounded by luscious green terraces.

‘Rooted in local history and celebrating Albanian’s national identity and cultural heritage, ODA Tirana is a multifunctional and harmonious urban meeting place and center at the service of its community, while its timeless design supports the identity of the new neighborhood,’ concludes the practice.

ODA Tirana features three towers and an exhibition center