Oppenheim Architecture has officially opened a new campus for the College of Europe in Tirana, Albania, marking the institution's first purpose-built facility. The campus features four new buildings set in a green environment, including a central 'agora' that houses a library, museum, and event space.
The architectural design draws inspiration from Greco-Roman theaters, with a dome-shaped conference hall featuring lancet arches and a local artist's folk mural. The other buildings are finished in dark red concrete, reflecting local vernacular architecture, and include murals that tell the story of student protests against Albanian communism.
This new campus aims to support Albania's democratic journey, aligning with the College's mission to train young leaders for various European diplomatic institutions. The project is part of a broader construction wave in Tirana, which includes recent designs by Steven Holl Architects and MVRDV.