A consortium led by Swiss architecture firm Herzog & de Meuron has been selected as the winner of the international competition to redesign and expand the Palace of Congresses in Tirana, one of Albania’s most important cultural and conference venues.

The winning proposal was chosen following a competitive process that attracted several prominent international architecture and engineering teams. The project aims to revitalize the landmark complex while preserving its architectural and historical significance and adapting it to contemporary requirements for conferences, cultural events and public gatherings.

According to the design team, interventions within the existing Palace of Congresses will be deliberately limited, focusing on restoring and enhancing the building’s functionality while maintaining its distinctive identity. The proposal includes upgraded conference facilities, improved acoustics, enhanced circulation, new pedestrian connections and the creation of a central atrium designed to improve accessibility and public interaction throughout the complex.

A key feature of the project is the introduction of new public and green spaces surrounding the building, together with a new public square intended to strengthen the relationship between the Palace of Congresses and the urban fabric of Tirana.

Alongside the refurbishment of the existing structure, the proposal also includes the construction of a multifunctional tower reaching up to 255 meters in height. Positioned along the central axis of the Palace of Congresses, the tower is intended to establish a functional connection with the historic venue while introducing new commercial and mixed-use opportunities within the development.

Speaking during the announcement of the results, jury chair Mari Randsborg described the project as an opportunity to create lasting value for the Albanian capital.

“This project will contribute to the continued development of Tirana and, without question, create value for many future generations,” Randsborg said. She also encouraged the design team to further study the tower’s height, positioning and relationship with surrounding public spaces to ensure the best possible integration within the city.

During the presentation, Herzog & de Meuron partner Olga Bolshanina emphasized that the design seeks to respect the original character of the Palace of Congresses while opening it to new forms of public use.

The building was innovative for its time and carries significant history. Our goal is to revive the Palace of Congresses while opening it up to new public uses and creating stronger connections between its different spaces.

Bolshanina said

Prime Minister Edi Rama also highlighted the importance of balancing modernization with preservation, stating that the time had come for the transformation of the Palace of Congresses while safeguarding its unique identity.

Headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, Herzog & de Meuron is among the world’s most renowned architecture practices, recognized for delivering landmark projects across Europe, Asia and the America. The firm’s selection marks a significant step in the future redevelopment of one of Tirana’s most recognizable public buildings.