Zaha Hadid Architects and AGI KONS Present “THE NEST” and “THE CASCADES OF TIRANA” at KODRA E DIELLIT
Tiranë, 05 June 2026
Tirana, Albania – In the heart of Kodra e Diellit, one of the fastest-growing areas in Tirana, the
prestigious international firm Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) presents two new residential and
hospitality projects: The Nest and The Cascades of Tirana.
Renowned for its colorful post-communist architecture, dynamic cafe culture, and continuous urban
transformation, Tirana is consolidating its position as one of Southeast Europe's most promising
capitals. With the Albanian economy expected to continue its growth and its integration process
toward the European Union, the city is attracting an increasing number of investments and new
residents.
Situated in the southern hills of the capital, Kodra e Diellit offers panoramic views over Tirana
and represents a well-established community featuring villas, residential homes, recreational
spaces, schools, kindergartens, health centers, sports facilities, and a developed network of
pedestrian walkways. The area connects directly to the city center via public transport lines,
making it one of the most sought-after residential destinations.
Growing demand for modern and accessible apartments for young families, professionals, couples, and
retirees has created the need for a new residential offering. It is precisely this demand that ZHA’s
new projects address.
The Nest
Organized across four plots within Kodra e Diellit, The Nest includes a wide range of apartments,
from one-bedroom units to three-bedroom family apartments. The project unfolds around a central
community park planted with Mediterranean vegetation, designed to create natural shade and improve
comfort during the hot summer months.
The buildings are designed using locally produced materials, such as brick and wood, reducing carbon
emissions and the environmental impact of transportation. The facades feature natural tones—ranging
from beige and terracotta to red hues inspired by the hill's iron-rich soil—creating a unique
identity harmonized with the surrounding landscape.
Through advanced digital analyses of climate, solar radiation, prevailing winds, humidity, and air
quality, ZHA has optimized the orientation and performance of the buildings to guarantee maximum
natural light, cross-ventilation, and energy efficiency.
Recessed terraces and strategically designed balconies offer protected outdoor spaces for every
apartment, while the project aims for LEED Gold certification, reflecting the highest standards of
sustainability.
Over 55% of the project area is dedicated to greenery, creating a cooler microclimate, reducing the
"urban heat island" effect, and promoting the well-being of residents. Rainwater harvesting systems,
greywater recycling, photovoltaic panels, electric vehicle charging stations, and bicycle
infrastructure reinforce the project's vision for a sustainable, low-carbon lifestyle.
The Cascades of Tirana
The Cascades of Tirana expands the existing Arka Art Hotel complex, creating a new,
international-standard hospitality and residential destination.
The project includes a significant expansion of the existing complex, featuring the construction of
a new 120-room hotel wing, a 60-meter extension of the infinity pool, and the creation of a new
residential block of apartments positioned on a podium that integrates harmoniously with the hill's
natural topography.
Two green courtyards serve as social and recreational spaces for visitors and residents. The
Poolside Courtyard extends the hotel's existing terrace and veranda, while the Hillside Garden
Courtyard offers a quieter setting with panoramic views over the city.
The architecture is inspired by the hill's natural topography and local building traditions,
creating a series of green terraces that descend organically along the terrain. Advanced
environmental analyses and digital modeling guided the design of the building's massing,
orientation, and performance to maximize energy efficiency and space quality.
The facades will be crafted using GRC (Glass Reinforced Concrete) panels inspired by the colors and
textures of local limestone, reflecting the unique character of the Albanian landscape. The selected
materials reduce structural weight, raw material consumption, and long-term maintenance needs.
Rainwater harvesting systems, greywater recycling, green roofs, passive solar shading, and hybrid
natural ventilation with heat recovery contribute to the building's longevity and minimize
environmental impact.
Zaha Hadid Architects is one of the most prestigious architecture firms in the world, renowned for
its iconic projects that combine innovation, advanced technology, and environmental sustainability.
Its collaboration with AGI Kons for "The Nest" and "The Cascades of Tirana" projects
represents a
significant milestone for urban development in Albania, bringing together the international
expertise of one of the biggest names in global architecture with the experience and vision of AGI
KONS as a leading company in the development of residential, tourism, and hospitality projects in
the region.
This partnership reflects a shared ambition to create international-standard destinations that
prioritize quality of life, community, and respect for the environment. At the core of this vision
lies the commitment of the founder and owner of AGI Kons,Gentjan Sula , who for years has promoted a
development approach that respects and cultivates a unique identity, culture, and character across
all projects, aiming to create spaces that leave lasting value for the community and future
generations.