Himara, a town brimming with cultural heritage, holds immense potential for revitalization and sustainable progress. Yet, in recent years, it has suffered from neglect and a lack of community involvement, leading to a stagnation in urban development. As an architect passionate about preserving our cultural legacy, I embarked on a research journey to explore the social development of Himara through the lens of urban and architectural transformations.
As we ponder the question of what it means to be agents of change, I envision the establishment of a shared space and documentation center in Himara as more than just a building—it is a future cultural center, a narrative unfolding in space.
It represents a transformative process, where culture serves as a powerful tool for fostering sustainable social and urban development.
In this endeavor, we aim to convey a powerful message. We ask ourselves: How will our words and actions bring about meaningful change? And, perhaps most importantly, how will our message intersect with and incorporate the voices of others? Our goal is to create a space that goes beyond individual perspectives, including the vibrant diversity of ideas, contexts, aspirations, and meanings that arise in response to the challenges of our time.
Collecta revolves around the establishment of an archive, library, and documentation center— creating a collective space for knowledge production. The goal is to reactivate a historical site and shed light on the evolving process of making architecture. By assembling information, my aim is to create a common ground where diverse interventions in different contexts become tangible, allowing us to understand the fundamental concepts and premises of architecture today.
To breathe life into this vision, I propose an intervention in the social fabric rather than a physical transformation of Himara’s architectural landscape. Through this initiative, I explore how art and culture can engage different segments of society, fostering community participation and establishing a distinct process of urban regeneration.
This endeavour is deeply inspired by the work of my grandfather, a former leader of the cooperative in Himara. To expand on his legacy, I am unveiling his private archive and integrating it into a larger collective documentation centre.
Reintroducing the vision of a new cultural centre in Himara
This space will serve as a conduit for cultural and social values, a platform that offers knowledge and resources to individuals seeking to work, create, and engage with art, architecture, and culture. It aims to bring together people from all walks of life, transcending categorization and fostering social cohesion.
Our vision extends beyond the physical structure; it encompasses the collective effort to create a more inclusive, sustainable, and vibrant society. This cultural journey is a testament to our commitment to Himara and to all communities that deserve to have their stories heard. By embracing the richness of cultural heritage and empowering every voice, we can shape a future where culture becomes a truly transformative force, a catalyst for positive change in Himara and beyond.
Join us on this remarkable journey as we embark on a path of rediscovery and reclamation. Together, let us bridge the gap between past and present, using architectural transformations as a catalyst for community empowerment and a testament to the enduring power of our cultural heritage.
