brick-clad residential complex by cino zucchi architetti expands in milan

Via Valtorta residential plan enhances the Milanese urban fabric

Architectural practice Cino Zucchi Architetti oversees the schematic and detailed design phases of the Via Valtorta 32 residential complex in Milan, Italy, focusing on consolidating and enhancing the existing urban fabric. The project prioritizes adherence to urban planning regulations, aiming to create unity and coherence between existing and new structures, particularly at the intersection of Via Valtorta, Giacomo Rovetta, and Matteo Maria Boiardo. The integration is achieved through height adjustments, strategically placing the lowest block near historic buildings. Varied heights consider perspectives, and panoramic views, and respond to terrain and solar orientation constraints. A distinctive urban front along Via Valtorta and Via Rovetta features a continuous base connecting height variations, accommodating commercial spaces and private areas for public use.

internal view from the courtyard | all images by ©Filippo Poli

Design achieves Urban Integration and Architectural Cohesion

Emphasizing permeability on the ground floor, the design by Cino Zucchi Architetti incorporates commercial spaces along Via Valtorta, accessible through passageways connecting to the yard, stairwells, and service rooms. The ground floor also hosts a bar or small shop in the northeast corner. A driveway ramp to the east provides access to private parking, ensuring efficient vehicle flow and traffic compliance. The apartments, evenly distributed and connected through a central staircase, feature spacious, well-lit spaces of varying sizes. Larger units on the tower’s upper floors include duplex flats, with significant loggia-balconies in main living areas. Facades exhibit a regular masonry curtain with integrated windows in bedrooms and bathrooms, reflecting meticulous consideration for twentieth-century Milanese architecture. Materials include plaster on external insulation for main facades, brick cladding for the base and minor fronts, and metal sticks on south-facing glazed parapets overlooking the green garden, creating a distinctive visual identity while respecting adjacent lots.

external view of the residential complex

internal view from the courtyard

balcony facade

external view of the residential complex

1/3

typical floor plan

north elevation

section

project info:

name: Via Valtorta 32
architect: Cino Zucchi Architetti | @cinozucchiarchitetti

client: Volcan Immobiliare

location: Milan, Italy

photography: Filippo Poli | @filippo.poli

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom

CZA

dec 14, 2023