herzog de meuron milan fondazione feltrinelli set to open

the long-awaited fondazione feltrinelli designed by renowned swiss-firm herzog and de meuron is set to open later this year in the porta volta area, milan. the master-plan sees the realization of a set of buildings, separated at one point, but consistent in their linear and angular form which is wrapped in a concrete brace. the site runs along viale pasubio, with a narrow gap which slices through the two volumes determine the foundation building between the development’s other offices.

two narrow and linear buildings define the master plan by the swiss-firm
image © designboom

herzog and de meuron’s scheme is part of the wider urban redevelopment of milan’s porta volta district. clean lines and deep-set windows convey a contemporary and monolithic expression; the structures expressing the geometrical conditions of the site with its rotated positioning. according to the architects, influence came from the long farmhouse ‘cascina’ buildings commonly seen in the lombardy region in italy and the generous scale of historic milanese architecture.

the concentration of the building’s mass creates a generous public green area, connecting to the existing boulevards
image © designboom

final touches of construction are being made and once completed, the structures will frame a much-needed green space. the ground level of the feltrinelli fondazione will facilitate programs such a cafeteria and book store, followed by a double-height multi-functional space on the first floor, and finished with an office area on both the second and third storeys.

the site’s two preserved gate houses are a reference point for the design
image © designboom