These four concepts guided us to our research for a spatial atmosphere, for an architectural narrative which derives power from its interweaving with time.
We observed and recognized the small scale of the existing site, its elliptical shape and its symmetrical boundary created by the tram lines.
Focusing on the importance of public space, we realised that it can be developed underground through the off-centre excavation that we propose. We designed, thus, a big central void space that acquires shape and form through the ellipsoidal ring where we house all programme.
Our intention to amplify the memory related to the history of the site, the “Underground Rome”, led us to the creation of a contemporary space as a vaulting temple, with its three-partite division and its structural articulation by cross-arches.
We placed emphasis on the relation of the visible over-the-ground form to the immediate context and we decided to highlight the most dynamic, gentle and generous characteristics of concrete: its ability to express lightness, simplicity and plasticity. We proposed a vaulted structure with self - compacted low viscosity concrete of 20cm thickness, interweaved and enriched by voids and glass spheres.
We designed a porous vaulted space adapted to the limitations imposed by the requirements and the specificities of the site, creating an interactive public space, where the programmatic meets with the unpredictable and creates chance encounters and possibilities.
Vibrando come le corde di un violino, luci e ombre mi raccontano una storia sempre nuova.
Like the strings of a violin, lights and shadows vibrate telling me a story that is always new.
La materia del vuoto / Renato Bocchi