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DURRES FISH MARKET
LOCATION |
DURESS, ALBANIA
YEAR |
2022
STATUS |
COMPETITION
STAGE OF INVOLVMENT |
CONCEPT DESIGN
ARCHITECTURAL OFFICE |
MUA
COMPETITION
CONCEPT
OLIVES & SPICES

DURRES FISH MARKET
MUA has been invited to participate in the closed competition to create an Architectural Concept, for the Market Hall as a core of the Market Area in the Harbour District in Duress, Albania. The site is part of the wider masterplan development of Duress Yachts and Marina. The location itself is an active port and fish market.
The harbour in the heart of the city stands as a promising canvas for transformation and redevelopment into a thriving new neighbourhood.
The mix of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures is a captivating fusion that spans centuries of historical interactions and shared
influences. This rich cultural amalgamation reflects the interconnectedness of diverse societies, trade routes, and migration patterns across the
Mediterranean Sea and the Middle East. The Mediterranean's culinary traditions, such as olive oil, wine, and an abundance of seafood, have
become hallmarks of the region's gastronomy.
Nestled on the picturesque coastline, the harbour in the heart of the city stands as a promising canvas for transformation and redevelopment into a thriving new neighbourhood. Perched at the water's edge, the place is on the cusp of an awe-inspiring transformation. Like a gust of fresh sea air, the vision for this location envisions a vibrant new Market District, where the element soft breeze, sails, sea, water, and wind converge to create an enchanting environment.
The concept follows three elements, olives as the shape, sails as the skin and spices as an atmospheric facade color of the building.
SHAPE
​The design concept of the Market building emerges from the vibrant blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures, symbolized by the olives and spices. Olives have become an inspiration for shaping the building outline.

SKIN
The site's location at the harbor serves as a source of inspiration, influencing the skin of the building and spatial organization







The design concept seeks to establish a seamless connection between the building and its
maritime surroundings, blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces.
Drawing from the rich cultural traditions of the Mediterranean and the Middle East, the Market building becomes a sensory feast, celebrating the region's diverse flavours and cultural heritage. The architectural design incorporates elements reminiscent of bazaars, and marketplaces, creating an immersive experience that evokes the bustling energy and vibrant atmosphere of these vibrant trading hubs.
Large Terrace and panoramic view allow occupants to immerse themselves in the mesmerising vistas of the harbour and the sea.
The central atrium of the Market building serves as a vibrant gathering place, adorned with lush light, and communal seating areas. This
semi-open-air space pays homage to the harmonious coexistence of water and land, mirroring the proximity of the building to the harbour. Visitors can relax, socialise, and savour the sensory delights of the market, surrounded by the soothing sounds of water and the gentle sea breeze.
Overall, the design concept of the Market building harmonises the mix
harmonises the mix of Mediterranean and
Middle Eastern cultures with the site's location at the harbour. By capturing the spirit and allure of the harbour, the building becomes a testament to the enduring relationship between the place and the sea, by blending architectural elements inspired by cultural diversity and site location the building becomes a captivating destination that celebrates the neighbourhood and creates a vibrant community hub at the heart of the harbour.




MORE IMAGES
TEAM
Devi Kituashvili
Gogiko Sakvarelidze
Natalia Nebieridze
Maria Pelangia
Dachi Chezhia
Masha Chigvinadze
Teona Rekhviashvili
Lili Jokhadze
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