Reviving Selman Stermasi An Infrastructure for citizens
Report
Table of contents
General VisionStadium's legacy Urban contextMobility and accessibility
More than a stadium: An infrastructure for citizens 80Two programmatic magnets
A truly public groundfloorGround floor activation 13Arcades and Architectural Measures for FlexibilityThe new stadium
An ensemble of outdoor spacesDistinct outdoor spaces Mosaic Adrian PaciLandscape elements
Architectural languageUrban cohesionThe grid as the basis for long-term resilience
General Vision
Urban Context
Since its construction in the 1950s the Selman Stermasi Stadium has been a significant landmarkin Tiranas urban fabric. Initially built as a venuefor major porting events its rolehas evolvedover the decades. Today it serves as a place of tranquillity-a green and open expanse thatcontrasts with the vibrancy ofthe surrounding city.Its presencehaseledshapethecharacterf thearea which has gradually bee one of Tirana's most cherished districts valued for its calm andleafy atmosphere.
Strategically located in the heart of the city thesdoodxsosin an increasingly dense urban environment. Assuch it transcends its original function and is now perceived by citizens as a vital piece of publicinfrastructure-serving not only sports but alsobreathing space. informal recreation social interaction and urban
The site sits at the intersection of diverse urbantypologies. To the north the neighborhood is predominantly residential characterized by afamily-friendly ambiance and a slower pace of life.bars and restaurants in the vicinity the area retains While recent years have seen theemergenceofits peaceful munity-oriented identity. To theeast lies the vibrant Blloku district a dynamicarea known for its nightlife cultural venues and youthful energy. Meanwhile the southern edge ofthe site is undergoing rapid transformation withawave of new developmentsincluding the recentlypleted administrative building just across from the stadiumsignaling a shift toward a morecontemporary urban identity.
A stadium in the planned middle ring - Tirana Masterplan ‘30
A site in the middle of the superblock shar
A site with very accessible public transport
Neighborhood diversity
The stadium is embedded within a largersuperblock that stretches northward toward theLana River. Within this superblock amenitiesgroup.A key shared asset is the public parking and infrastructure are shared among various userfacility adjacent to the stadium which currentlyserves local residents and visitors alike. This underscores the stadium's integration not only as aspatial landmark but also as part of a broader urbansystem of services.
Mobility and accessibility
In terms of mobility the site's central location ensures excellent accessibility. It is well-connectedby public transportation with several bus linespassing nearby. Itisalso easily reachablebyThe planned Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line along bicycle promoting sustainable modes of travel.Sulejman Delvina Street will further enhancemeasuresincluding one-way street conversions connectivity while uping traffic-calmingaim to reduce congestion and promote pedestrianmovement. These initiatives reflect a broadermunicipal agenda focused on sustainability the enhancement of public transport and pedestrian-friendly urbanism.
Legacy of the stadium
Despite its historical importance the Selman Stermasi Stadium in its current form no longermeets the standards required for hosting majorsporting events. Years of wear and lack of substantial renovation have rendered it obsolete forprofessional matches. However its enduring valuelies in its adaptability and symbolic presence.
In recent years the stadium has found a newpurpose as a venue for cultural and civiclife.In thesummer of 2024 it played a central role in the city'sthe European Cup alongside small-scale concerts seasonal programming hosting public viewings ofpotentialof thestadiumtofunction asafexible and open-air gatherings. These events revealed theand inclusive urban platform.
Preserving this character-of an open fundamental to its future.The proposal thus seeks multipurpose and munity-oriented space-isnot merely to rebuild a stadium but to reimagineit as an infrastructural node that bridges sport culture and daily urban life. Its legacy is not only in the games it once hosted but in the life it continuest support quitly ye profoudl at the heart fthe city.
