Photography by J Hernandez and E Zhabjaku
With a focus on restoring an open and inclusive public space along the Shiroka waterfront, the Rotterdam-based architects Casanova + Hernandez’ “Albanian Carpet” project is inspired by the village’s long history of carpet weaving.
The design is meant to resemble a large house made up of different open rooms all inspired by the ODA, a typical large room in a traditional Albanian house that is used to receive and entertain guests.
As well as the carpet like paving, the distinct areas or rooms were designed to function as gathering spaces. Wooden benches, public dining tables and viewing platforms overlooking the lake and play areas.
Commissioned by the Albanian Development Fund this is just the first phases of the planned works for this fishing village.