The new Selman Stërmasi Stadium in Tirana redefines the concept of urban infrastructure, acting as a vibrant civic hub that blends sports, culture, and daily life. Centrally positioned along the city’s middle ring road, the project integrates seamlessly into Tirana’s diverse urban landscape, linking tranquil neighborhoods to the north with the lively Blloku district to the east and newly developed areas to the south. As part of a larger superblock, the site offers generous open spaces, pedestrian connections, and shared amenities for both residents and visitors.

Sustainability is central to the design, which includes a diverse range of vegetated and paved grounds. This design ensures continuous activity, not only in the building, but also in the entire complex. It is integrated with public transport and cycling infrastructure, promoting a resilient, accessible urban node. The adaptive use of the whole stadium and its surrounding areas accommodates large sporting events, open-air gatherings, and everyday community life, making for a vibrant and inclusive environment.

A defining element is the southern stadium plaza, which serves as both a welcoming main entrance and a vibrant gathering place. Designed to accommodate a variety of events and everyday activities, this plaza offers ample seating that invites visitors to relax and socialize, while large, colorful umbrellas provide welcome shade on sunny days and a dynamic water fountain becomes a center for refreshment and playful interaction. The northern neighbourhood grove harmoniously integrates with the existing residential buildings and offers sandy play areas featuring sculptural play elements. The shared space to the east serves as a vibrant promenade enriched with amenities where pedestrians, cyclists, and minimal vehicular traffic coexist.

Additional tree plantings surrounding the plaza, the neighborhood grove, and the shared space, form natural buffers between the stadium and nearby neighborhoods. Especially native and drought-tolerant species, including wildflowers and robust trees, are used enhancing the site’s ecological value and supporting urban biodiversity.