In the heart of Tirana, Albania’s capital, a groundbreaking cultural hub has emerged, breathing new life into the Pyramid of Tirana. Originally conceived as a museum dedicated to the communist leader Enver Hoxha, the Pyramid underwent a remarkable metamorphosis under the creative hands of MVRDV. The concrete structure, once a symbol of a bygone era, now stands as an open sculpture in a vibrant new park.

A Fusion of Past and Present

The Pyramid, repurposed as an open sculpture, hosts a lively ensemble of colorful boxes that dot the landscape both within and around the original structure. This innovative space now accommodates cafes, studios, workshops, start-up offices, incubators, festivals, and classrooms. It has been envisioned as a hub for free technology education for Albanian youth, embodying a transformative shift from its original purpose.

Ascending the Pyramid: A Symbolic Act

Steps have been seamlessly integrated into the building’s sloping facades, symbolically allowing the people of Albania to ascend the structure that was once a symbol of dictatorship. MVRDV’s design aims to provide literal and metaphorical elevation, offering an opportunity for the community to reclaim the space. The Pyramid, which initially served as a museum, radio station, nightclub, conference venue, and NATO base, has now become a symbol of victory over the regime.

An Ever-Evolving Icon

Originally opened in 1988, the Pyramid of Tirana has undergone diverse transformations over the years. From a symbol of political power to a gathering spot for Tirana’s youth, the structure has evolved alongside the changing tides of history. The decision to repurpose the concrete monolith into an educational facility for young Albanians was fueled by a desire to provide a nurturing environment.

Designing for Interaction and Education

MVRDV’s design revolves around the existing structure, using it as a blueprint to introduce publicly accessible spaces and educational boxes. These colored boxes, scattered around the park and atop the structure, create a festive and dynamic atmosphere. Approximately half of these spaces are dedicated to TUMO Tirana, a non-profit educational institution offering free afterschool education in technology-related fields. The remaining spaces are open to the public, hosting cafes, restaurants, start-up offices, labs, and studios.

Preservation and Sustainability

The Pyramid’s transformation exemplifies how a historical building can be adapted for a new era while preserving its intricate history. This project aligns with the principles of circular economy, as the robust concrete shell is repurposed instead of being demolished. By opening a significant portion of the structure to the surroundings, energy consumption is minimized, contributing to environmental sustainability. Furthermore, the project addresses social sustainability by advancing education and preparing the younger generation for future challenges.

The Pyramid of Tirana, through MVRDV’s thoughtful intervention, stands as a testament to the adaptive reuse of brutalist architecture and its potential to contribute to sustainable development goals outlined by the United Nations.