This thesis examines the urban evolution of housing in Kosovo, focusing on Prishtina, the capital city. It addresses critical questions on improving urban development and architecture in Kosovo while enhancing a sense of identity and belonging among residents. The study explores strategies to raise awareness of the negative impacts of poor city planning on residents’ well-being and advocates for improved urban planning practices. It aims to cultivate appreciation and care for the city among its inhabitants. The research covers different architectural periods in Kosovo, including ancient traditional Albanian and Ottoman styles, socialist-modernism from the Yugoslav era, and post-war development. It identifies current urban development issues such as inadequate building regulations, poor land use, and the imbalance between private and public interests. The thesis highlights the lack of community programs and green spaces in new neighborhoods while valuing traditional architecture and seeking to strengthen it while preserving its authenticity. To address these challenges, the thesis proposes a holistic architectural policy emphasizing identity, ecological sustainability, affordability, and community. The policy provides principles that guide future architects on how to plan and design buildings and cities. The persistent theme of identity, shaped by various architectural styles from different regimes, is a central concern. The practical application of this policy is demonstrated through a site-specific project in the Mati 1 neighborhood of Prishtina, an area exemplifying rapid densification driven by profit. This is, therefore, a chaotic and claustrophobic environment with high buildings, narrow streets, and lack of public spaces. The project presents targeted interventions based on thorough site analysis to find solutions to these issues and improve residents’ living conditions.