The design elements are conceived to open up the interior spaces towards the city and, conversely, to bring the city inside, channelling the views through dynamic, light-filled lines. These create a striking contemporary setting with a very strong character, which frames, as if in a picture frame, the life and activities taking place within the premises, which are thus projected outwards through the large glazed windows. The strong interplay between the design and the city, but above all the communicative power of the architecture and its close connection with the activities it houses, make the architecture of these spaces unique.
The project, which was only conceived following in-depth discussions with the client regarding functional requirements, brings together the various activities carried out within the building into a single, unified space, and streamlines the different flows of staff, materials and customers.
Much of the research has focused on the sustainability of the project, both during its construction and in its operational phase. A particular aspect is the use of timber materials with a low environmental impact, sourced from recycling processes, which has made it possible to reduce construction costs and, above all, the environmental cost associated with the production of the materials themselves. Thus, materials that may appear ‘humble’, but which are suitably designed and treated, can characterise any type of architecture and fit into a versatile spatial vocabulary, suited to any architectural style.
Another key aspect relating to energy savings during operation concerns the use of natural light, which is available in abundance thanks to the building’s optimal south-facing façade. The large windows ensure that this ‘free’ light is utilised to the full; they also play a role in natural thermal regulation during winter, allowing for ‘passive’ heat gain from solar radiation through the greenhouse effect.