SADAR + VUGA and local partner PRG°B R Architektur have been awarded first prize in a competition for the new Headquarters for the Supreme Court and School of Magistrates in Tirana, Albania. The winning proposal, selected from a pool of over 30 international firms and from a shortlist of 5 finalists, renovates an existing 3,000 square meter Italian Rationalist structure while adding four light-filled courtrooms and a new educational block.
The design is a product of its site along the periphery of the Grand Park Tirana, drawing inspiration from the tranquility of the forest and the strength of the existing structure, characteristics that create what SADAR + VUGA refer to as an “urban oasis of sorts.” The renovation and addition enhance these natural qualities while introducing a lively spirit to the site through the creation of an animated urban square, an independent educational facility, intelligently organized administrative spaces for judicial staff and four transparent, tectonic courtrooms that feel open, yet secure.
Program pieces have been dividing into unique architectural objects, arranged to give the complex a campus-like feel. Outer walls of the court complex are constructed of a light tubular steel structure and floor to ceiling glazing. Green roofs also feature throughout the addition, pulling the park into the building.
The educational center takes on a more stoic personality, featuring a conventional concrete shear wall structure, and is set across from the existing building to create a public plaza for the complex. Additional program pieces include classrooms, a conference hall and cafe.
The project will be on display as part of the exhibition titled 'Where Modern Justice Lives', opening on August 8th in entrance hall of the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom.
Architects
Location
Shëtitore Parku i Madh, Tiranë, AlbaniaSADAR+VUGA
Jurij Sadar, Boštjan Vuga, Kenneth Woods, Gregor Bucik, Jure Sadar, Grega Mervič, Blaž LozejPRG°B R Architektur
Florian Pollo, Dorian TytymçeEnvironmental
Transsolar (Markus Krauss)Landscape
Darja MatjašecConstruction Engineer
Elea iC (Anjo Žigon), Klodioda (Ylli Karapici)Cultural Heritage Expert
Luise Rellensmann, Frida PashakoArea
8200.0 m2Project Year
2016Photographs
Courtesy of Sadar + VugaArchitects
