Greenery, sun exposure and ventilation of public spaces in residential units in Tirana

Abstract When referring to residential units, well-ventilated and lit green spaces are considerable contributors to increasing the quality of life of its residents. This research aims to analyse the transformation of the spaces between the buildings in the context of Tirana, by simultaneously stressing the key distinctions between their original design and their current situation. A typical residential complex close to Tirana’s centre is used as a case study to further illustrate this topic. The research starts with a qualitative morphological analysis of greenery, lighting, and ventilation condition of public space between residential units. It expands with a quantitative-comparative analysis, based on questionnaires conducted with residents, as well as by-passers of the selected residential area. The apparent reduction of greenery in spaces between residential units was one of the study’s most obvious findings. Originally intended as green spaces, public spaces between residential units have since been used for a variety of purposes, including being occupied by extensions of buildings or open parking lots. These interventions have resulted in a shift of usage to the inner streets of the residential block, which are now used for vehicles and are no longer either quiet or exclusively dedicated to pedestrians. The overall value of this space has been transferred from a straightforward recreational area to an economic space. Consequently, designers and urban planners have a responsibility to re-evaluate the significance of green surfaces, in addition to the shape and orientation of the residential unit as a foundation of sustainable urban development.