Lavazza: Headquarters + Event Area

The large existing block between via Bologna, via Pisa, via Ancona and Corso Palermo has been redesigned and opened to the city, while the documented industrial architecture have been preserved.

The heart of the project is a new, expansive tree-planted piazza in the centre of the block positioned on the axis of Via Parma, which makes the large building of the former Enel power station enter into a dialogue with the new headquarters of Lavazza.

The office building, which communicates with the city through the extensive glazed atrium overlooking Via Bologna and the new green square, takes the form of a large “cloud“ which unites the different façades and the industrial buildings, which have been preserved and converted to new functions.

The ground floor, which houses activities characterised by a close relationship with the public, faces a number of “theme gardens“ which create a new green filter between the building and the city.

About the event area; the plan, was to refurbish the building, whose 4,500 sqm were destined to serve functions of public interest, and it has enhanced the architecture, in particular the imposing machine room.

The main section of the Lavazza plant has become a great flexible environment that can accommodate up to 1,000 people for cultural, musical and artistic events and activities. The elevated space inside, which is independent and raised, has two meeting rooms for a total of 220 seats.

Design by Cino Zucchi