In the heart of Albania’s capital city stands a monument with a storied past – the Pyramid of Tirana, once a museum dedicated to the communist dictator Enver Hoxha, now reborn as a vibrant cultural hub thanks to the visionary redesign by the renowned architectural firm MVRDM.
The transformation of the Pyramid is nothing short of remarkable. What was once a symbol of a bygone era now stands as a beacon of modernity and accessibility, welcoming the public to explore its new offerings. With a height of 24.5 meters and a central point reaching 20.2 meters, the Pyramid spans an impressive 12,000 square meters, providing ample space for educational facilities, commercial ventures, and public gatherings.
Central to the redesign was the incorporation of cutting-edge materials to enhance the visitor experience. In response to the architect’s specifications for increased light transmission and reduced light reflection, Guardian’s choice of SN 70S glass proved to be the perfect solution. This high-performance glass not only met the project’s technical requirements but also added a touch of sophistication to the Pyramid’s aesthetic.
The revitalization of the Pyramid of Tirana serves as a testament to the power of architectural innovation and cultural renewal. By breathing new life into this iconic structure, MVRDM has not only preserved a piece of Albania’s history but has also created a dynamic space where the past and present converge harmoniously.
As the Pyramid opens its doors to the public, it invites visitors to embark on a journey of discovery and exploration. Whether you are drawn to its educational offerings, commercial opportunities, or simply the allure of its public spaces, the Pyramid of Tirana stands as a symbol of transformation and possibility in the heart of the city.
The MVRDV design team’s work integrates and envelops the existing structure, utilizing it as a blueprint for the addition of publicly accessible spaces and educational boxes. Colorful clusters of rooms for education and activities are dispersed within and around the structure and park. These vibrant additions can be seen atop the building and in the park, creating a festive ambiance.
Approximately half of these areas will accommodate the non-profit educational institution TUMO Tirana, which offers free after-school education in modern disciplines like software, robotics, animation, music, and film for 12 to 18-year-olds. Established in Armenia in 2011 and now expanded across Europe, TUMO aims to provide education and opportunities as a means to combat emigration threats to economies, such as that of Albania. The remaining colorful boxes will be open to the public, offering rental spaces for cafes, restaurants, offices, laboratories, incubators, studios, and more.
In conclusion, the redesign of the Pyramid of Tirana by MVRDM represents a bold step forward in the evolution of Albania’s cultural landscape. With its blend of history, innovation, and accessibility, this architectural marvel is poised to become a cornerstone of Tirana’s cultural identity for generations to come.
Pyramid of Tirana| Photo: Ossip van Duivenbode