Oppenheim Architecture recently disclosed its design for the College of Europe’s new campus in Tirana, Albania. This purpose-built campus, inspired by the city’s architectural vernacular and historical context, aims to foster cooperation and understanding between students, EU representatives, and the Albanian public. The campus is centered around a circular “agora” topped by a concrete dome, reminiscent of Albania’s ubiquitous concrete bunkers.
The campus comprises three main structures: a university building, a diplomatic building, and a gateway building, arranged around the site’s edges and connected by large loggias. The buildings feature dark-red pigmented concrete facades, inspired by Tirana’s vernacular architecture, and playful structural components alluding to Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy” music sheet. Large-scale murals by regional artists adorn the building facades facing the agora, integrating the city’s cultural iconography.
The campus design emphasizes social connectivity, with grand staircases, shared workspaces, and rooftop terraces encouraging interaction and community building. The agora’s concentric seating arrangement, inspired by ancient Greco-Roman theaters, promotes democratic participation and public engagement. The project combines Oppenheim Architecture’s “Spirit of Place” design philosophy with the College of Europe’s legacy, creating a unique and harmonious blend of Albanian culture and European values.
Project facts
Poject name: College of Europe – Tirana Campus
Architects: Oppenheim Architecture
Local Architect: Atelier 4
OA Principals in charge: Chad Oppenheim, Beat Huesler
Project manager: Alexandre Mecattaf
Project Contributors: Janet Vutcheva, Ece Emanetoglu
Location: Tirana, Albania
Client: Adelina Greca, College of Europe
Site Area: 7โ700m2
Building Area: 9โ850m2
Landscaping Area: 5โ500m2
Source: worldarchitecture.org