Sanpaolo Skyscraper | RPBW - Renzo Piano Building Workshop

The building is the result of advanced research intended to take advantage of the surrounding natural sources of energy (water, air, sunlight) and limit overall consumption. Ground water is used for cooling the offices.

Solar energy is captured by the photovoltaic panels covering the tower’s whole south façade. The ceiling height of the offices have optimized indirect lighting.

Particular attention has been paid to the working conditions of employees in terms of quality of space, lighting and thermal comfort.

The double-skin glass façade makes it possible to limit heat loss in winter and is controlled in relation to the heat input through a system of apertures and solar screens with motorized louvers, which control irradiation and lighting in the work areas.

In summer, the cool night air is channeled inside through the double concrete floors labs, absorbing its coolness and giving it out in the offices by day with the help of radiant panels.

The whole is controlled by probes linked to a technologically advanced BMS (Building Management System).

The tower is covered with bright white materials (glass, lacquered aluminum, opalescent glass) that make it almost immaterial and luminescent.

Design by Renzo Piano