The topic of this diploma thesis is the design of a museum, which includes multiple spaces with a variety of functions. Located on a plot of 18.900 square meters in a suburb of the city of Gjirokastra, close to the city center, the proposal intervenes at this specific point to join the urban sphere of the city. The main idea is the existence of a pioneering building, the program of which combines different functions and takes into account the daily needs of residents.

The idea was based on the city’s reputation for the visual arts, the wood carving and the stone carving.
Gjirokastra is a small town located in the southern part of the country, recorded on the World Heritage List “as a rare example of a well preserved Ottoman city”, which is characterized by a big increase of tourism development, attracting the interest of many foreign and local visitors. Moreover, it becomes necessary the existence of a museum that could connect the stay of foreign tourists with the culture and the civilization of the area, through their visit to the museum, but also having as main purpose the relationship of art with the locals of all ages. Although the city has its own distinctive local style, the construction of a museum with elements of brutalism is an innovative architectural proposal, making the building itself an “art object” displayed to its visitors.

   In addition to the existence of the main spaces, such as galleries cafeterias / restaurants, offices, in the 9000 sq.m volume are also included: a library, material processing areas (stone and wood) and also spaces and areas of art learning for children and adults. Another element of attraction and interaction with people could be the dynamic connection of indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing visitors to contact nature.

   Overall, the implementation of the proposal could be seen as a modern pillar that will significantly add to the upgrade and promotion of the local culture and art of the area.