The Great Ring Rock: A Bold New Gateway to Tirana
Poised at the entrance of Tirana, The Great Ring Rock from XPlan Studio & MVRDV is more than a building, it’s a striking urban statement. Located along Tirana’s Great Ring Road and adjacent to the revitalized Lana River, this iconic development welcomes visitors to the city with a bold architectural gesture that seamlessly blends function, nature, and forward-thinking design. Set to become a landmark on Tirana’s skyline, The Great Ring Rock redefines urban living by combining dynamic commercial spaces at ground level with sophisticated residential units above. Cafes, shops, and shaded outdoor plazas bring life to the street, while landscaped paths, bike parking, and green seating zones offer a new standard for public space. Beneath the surface, four underground levels ensure modern conveniences like parking, electric charging, and accessibility.
As the tower rises, its volume subtly shifts, widening to house diverse apartment types and tapering at the top to reveal spacious residences with panoramic terraces. These outdoor spaces don’t just offer views, they function as private gardens, extending the city’s green goals vertically into the skyline. Architecturally, the building is shaped for performance. Terraces provide solar shading, rough-textured balustrades shield from traffic noise, and double-glazed façades ensure energy efficiency. Its rock-like aesthetic, paired with integrated greenery, pays
homage to Albania’s mountainous landscape, anchoring the project in both place and purpose. More than a home, The Great Ring Rock is a vision for Tirana’s future: sustainable, bold, and beautifully in tune with the city it serves