Pine Residences

The project takes the form of a kind of contemporary fortress, reinterpreting the historical defensive structures of Durres and articulating into three main parts: a residential area similar to a village, an amphitheatre housing a music school, and a bastion with a panoramic view of the Adriatic Sea. The residential part, designed as a fortified village, recalls the organisation of ancient medieval settlements. The dwellings are arranged in such a way as to create a compact and coherent urban fabric, with narrow streets, gathered squares and common spaces that encourage interaction between residents. The idea of the village is based on the importance of community life, where sociality and a sense of belonging are fundamental elements. The residential design integrates local materials such as stone and wood, respecting the historical aesthetics of the place, but at the same time introducing modern architectural solutions that guarantee comfort and sustainability. Each building is designed to have visual contact with the surrounding landscape, emphasising the relationship between the village and the natural environment. The cultural heart of the project is represented by the amphitheatre, which clearly takes up the iconography of the Roman amphitheatre of Durres, but with a contemporary function. This space is conceived as a multipurpose venue: during the year it houses a music school, becoming a centre of artistic and cultural education for the community, but it can also be used for public events such as concerts, plays and performances open to the public.  The amphitheatre represents a bridge between history and modern life, where the ancient architecture of the arena is revisited to create a new space for meeting and sharing. The tiers of seats, made of natural materials that recall the original stone of the site, open onto a view that connects the stage space to the sea, creating a natural backdrop that emphasises the majesty of the Adriatic landscape. Crowning the project is the Panorama Bastion, a structure reminiscent of the historical fortifications of Durres, but with a modern reinterpretation. This bastion is strategically positioned to offer a breathtaking view of the Adriatic and the city below. In addition to its aesthetic and landscaping function, the bastion serves as a space of contemplation and refuge for residents and visitors. Here it is possible to stroll along the walls, enjoying the view and direct contact with the surrounding nature. The bastion, in a way, represents the soul of the project: a place where history and landscape come together, offering a space for quietness and reflection that celebrates the beauty of nature and the historical heritage of the city. In summary, the concept design of the project is based on a contemporary reinterpretation of the historical elements of the city of Durres. Each component of the project - the residential suburb, the amphitheatre dedicated to music and community events, and the panoramic bastion - is inspired by fortifications, public spaces and symbols of local history, creating an environment that celebrates culture and community, while meeting modern demands for sustainability and well-being. This modern fortress is not only rooted in the past, but also looks to the future, offering a unique living experience that combines historical memory, art and natural beauty.