Via Matteotti 189: the rebirth of a building from 1926

The recovery of the noble palace: from school institute to residence

The Studio PROmenade ARCHitecturale, author of numerous architecture projects, intervened in the renovation of the noble palace located in Via Matteotti 189. This historic building, which has housed several school institutes as well as the owners' residence, underwent a meticulous recovery intervention. The studio operated with great care and respect for the original identity of the building, preserving and enhancing the historical elements that characterize its architecture. The result is a perfect balance between the recovery of the historical heritage and the integration of contemporary elements, ensuring a new life for the palace while maintaining its original charm intact.

How was the building intervened?

The building, consisting of two floors plus an attic, has a mixed structure in masonry and reinforced concrete. The recovery intervention was carried out in a non-invasive manner, respecting the original structure and minimizing changes. However, it was necessary to replace the projecting elements, which were too degraded and unstable to ensure the safety of the building. These targeted interventions have allowed to preserve the historical integrity of the building, while improving its stability and structural safety.

The palace's envelope

The external structure of the building has been restored to its original state, then reinforced with a carbon fiber mesh to increase its structural resistance. Subsequently, it has been coated with various layers of plaster. The chosen coloration is uniform and delicate, specifically designed to highlight the interplay of shadows and light, minimizing chromatic contrast. This approach has allowed to enhance the building's aesthetics, maintaining a harmonious and refined appearance that enhances its architectural beauty without altering its historical identity.

The replacement of the roof

The original roof, made of chestnut wood beams, has been replaced with a modern glued-laminated timber roof equipped with non-thrusting trusses. This intervention has significantly improved the stability and durability of the structure. The new roof has been completed with an efficient package of multiple layers of thermal insulation, ensuring excellent protection against heat loss and contributing to enhancing the overall energy efficiency of the building.

Internal Space Distribution

Inside, the ground floor has been completely renovated and transformed into a home/studio. In this case as well, the division of spaces respected the original load-bearing structure, integrating only the necessary dividing walls for the new internal distribution. The spaces have been organized in a functional and harmonious way, allowing for a balanced coexistence between the domestic and work environments. The renovation maintained a constant dialogue between the old and the new, respecting the historical essence of the building while adapting to the contemporary needs of the inhabitants.

The spacious and frescoed hall

The former professors' lounge has been transformed into the living room of the apartment. Inside, the designers wanted to highlight the fascinating contrast between the ancient part of the room, characterized by historical frescoes, and the modern furniture that defines the new style of the space. This contrast represents the guiding thread of the entire intervention, creating a harmonious dialogue between past and present. The carefully restored frescoes maintain their historical splendor, while the modern furnishings, with clean lines and contemporary materials, add a touch of elegance and functionality to the living room, highlighting the perfect balance between tradition and innovation.

Beauty in light tones warmed by wood shades

The intervention is based on light and natural tones of white and wood, accentuated by large internal windows that diffuse the light coming from the large windows. The lines are clean and simple, free of smudges, while the vibrant wood tones connect the spaces with a coherent and light language. The colors used echo the motifs of the frescoes, not interfering with them but rather enhancing them. A detailed study of lighting and lighting devices frames the stylistic simplicity, creating suggestions that reveal the overall vision of the project.