AbA 2

Located in an area of natural beauty near Lake Farka, where lush greenery and clean air create a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. This development, named "AbA 2," is situated in the southeast of Tirana, only 6 km by road from the city center and 5 km in a straight line. Positioned on Turdi Street, the area offers excellent connectivity to the city while preserving the tranquility and calm of nature for those seeking a comfortable and clean environment.
The construction site is bounded to the north by the main road connecting Tirana to Farka, to the south by Lake Farka and surrounding agricultural land, to the east by vegetation-rich land and green areas, and to the west by an open area that is currently unused but has development potential. The regulation plan for Tirana. The project envisions a residential complex that harmoniously integrates with its natural surroundings while addressing the practical and cultural needs of its future residents. With a building footprint limited to 30% of the total site, the design emphasizes green, pedestrian-friendly spaces, completely free of vehicular traffic above ground. Apartments are standardized as one-bedroom units, each with a gross external area of 45 m², and are supported by communal recreational facilities on the ground floor to promote social interaction.
The architecture prioritizes optimal orientation, favoring southeast and south-facing units to maximize natural light and meet client preferences. East and west orientations are acceptable alternatives, while north-facing units are to be avoided. Moderate building widths ensure natural lighting in bathrooms and ideally in kitchens, contributing to healthier living environments. Each residential floor will accommodate five to seven apartments served by a common staircase and elevator core, with elevators extending down to the underground parking level.
Design guidelines also emphasize minimal soil excavation and low façade permeability, with no more than 30% of the façade area used for openings. Common areas above ground are limited to 10% of the total building area. Sidewalks of 1.5 meters width, constructed from materials that ensure durability and permeability, support walkability throughout the site.

The AbA 2 project demonstrates high thermal performance through a combination of passive design strategies and advanced façade technology. The buildings are designed to maximize direct solar gain using large glazed openings, which enhance natural lighting and contribute to interior heating during colder months.
For the external façade, the project utilizes the ETICS (External Thermal Insulation Composite System), incorporating high-performance stone wool insulation. This material offers excellent thermal resistance, along with superior fire resistance, ensuring both energy efficiency and occupant safety. The façade finish is treated with a silicate-based Graffiato coating provided by KEIM Farben, known for its long-term durability and resistance to atmospheric agents.
In addition, the project integrates carefully planned landscape elements as part of its thermal strategy. Deciduous trees are planted on the southern side of the buildings to provide shading during the summer while allowing sunlight to penetrate in winter, thus improving seasonal energy efficiency.
Architectural sunshading is further enhanced through the use of brise-soleil—horizontal and vertical shading elements that wrap around the buildings like a second skin, creating a double façade effect that reduces overheating and glare.
Based on simulations using certified energy performance evaluation software, the building has been classified as Energy Class A, fully complying with Decision No. 537, dated 08.07.2020, “On the approval of minimum energy performance requirements for buildings and building elements” issued by the Albanian government.