1.⁠ ⁠What motivated you to choose the square in Labunista as the topic for your thesis?

The topic had to be something real and meaningful, so I thought – why not the square in my hometown, Labunista. I was motivated by the daily problems faced by myself and my fellow citizens – from chaotic traffic to undefined public space lacking clear function and identity.

2. What problems or challenges did you identify in the existing space before starting with the conceptual solution?

The space is currently quite chaotic and non-functional. The center lacks a defined structure, the streets are narrow and often blocked, and parking is distributed without any order. Additionally, there are several buildings in the surroundings that I still wonder why they were built and by whom – such as the buildings near the mosque, the public post office, and the municipal utility offices. All this contributes to the central part of the village appearing messy and without a true character.

3. Which architectural and urban principles guided you the most during the project development?

The main principles were how to create a functional, visually acceptable, and economically justified center for a village the size of Labunista, which has about 10,000 inhabitants. The idea was for Labunista to gain a modern look but without losing the traditional spirit and lifestyle of its residents.

The project is defined based on the current state, aiming to overcome the chaos and dysfunction of roads and public spaces. Parking was a special challenge, which is why the solution includes 192 parking spaces in an underground multi-story garage, freeing up public space and creating a more orderly structure.

With the help of the roundabout, the busiest traffic directions are clearly divided – connecting the Labunista – Podgorci road, which is two-way and heavily loaded, and the directions Center – Mustafa’s neighborhood – and back, which are solved as one-way. This enables better traffic flow, greater safety, and clear orientation for all participants.

Additionally, new sidewalks and pedestrian paths were added, clearly defining the boundary between pedestrian and vehicle traffic, so that no one obstructs anyone else – everything has its own line, movement is logical and natural. With this solution, the center finally receives a clear structure where pedestrians and vehicles coexist peacefully, and the entire area functions harmoniously and organized.

4. How did you balance the relationship between modern design and the traditional spirit of Labunista?

The modern design was achieved through clean lines and functional solutions without disrupting the traditional architecture. The terrain itself, which has a gentle slope, allowed for an underground multi-story garage that fits visually and practically. The Mehmed Ali Pasha Mosque plays a central role in the project as an existing cultural and spiritual value. The new buildings – the administrative building and the restaurant with several shops – are in a modern style but with architectural elements and lines reminiscent of tradition, and the facades are white to highlight the stone mosque as the dominant landmark in the area.

5. Did you conduct research on the history and cultural significance of the space before defining the concept?

Yes, we conducted detailed architectural and historical analyses. The entire concept focused on preserving the existing identity and symbolism of the area around the mosque, while enabling its modern functioning. The goal was not to erase the old but to build upon it.

6. How does your conceptual solution aim to improve the daily life of the residents?

The project creates a new public space that is both modern and functional. People gain a place for walking, greenery, public areas for social activities, new business spaces, as well as more organized traffic. Through this, everyday life becomes more comfortable, and the center once again becomes a gathering point – something the village lacked for a long time.

7. What were the biggest difficulties you faced during the development of the thesis?

The biggest challenges were related to solving traffic and organizing spatial connections. To achieve a clear and calm structure, several public buildings and one private building had to be removed – something acceptable for such a large project. Also, finding a balance between private houses and public spaces to create a natural transition and harmony between them was a significant challenge.

8. Did you have consultations with the local population or institutions during the project's development?

Yes, the entire thesis was developed with the support and guidance of my mentor Prof. Dr. Nuras Saliu, to whom I thank. His experience and my knowledge of local conditions were key. We also had several meetings with officials and the mayor to see how the project could be realistically implemented and financed in the future.

9.⁠ ⁠How do you envision the future use of the space if this conceptual solution is ever realized?

I see it as a major progress for the village, socially and touristic-wise. The new buildings will enable economic development through small businesses, cafes, shops, or other functions like kindergartens, courses, or multifunctional halls. This would make the center the true living heart of Labunista.

10.⁠ ⁠What did you personally learn from this process and how did the thesis influence your further professional development?

From this project, I learned that even a small village with dysfunctional structure, chaotic parking, and undefined public spaces can be transformed with a few smart urban steps. I realized how important it is for every decision to be made carefully and with understanding of the local context. This experience taught me to think more broadly but always starting from the real needs of the people.