These two projects enhance the system of public buildings, continuing the settlement dynamic of the town, which has developed over time towards the east between the original fortress, the Town Hall, the church, the system of schools and sports facilities along the Rio del Torchio. As the final episodes in this urban development due to architectural factors, the projects are located on the hillside and reflect the castle’s use of river stone, collected from the riverbed of the Ceno, for external cladding. From their compact stone planes, the roofs of the entrances and the system of apertures project outwards, bringing light into the interior and directing the gaze towards the small stream, the entire town and the valley.
The new school building concludes the existing layout around a small recreation yard, providing an integrated response to the needs of both the primary school, located on the ground and first floors, with access from the new entrance, and the middle school on the second floor, accessible from the existing staircase. Further up is the gymnasium, located next to the former kindergarten. Beyond the stone slab that follows the Rio del Torchio and contains the changing rooms, stage, exits and dance studio, the large central hall emerges, sized to the dimensions of the volleyball court. The space for sporting activities, naturally illuminated by roof-mounted photovoltaic sawtooth ceilings, has two parallel and complementary features along its long sides.
On one side, are the terraces for spectators that lead to a long projecting gallery/balcony. On the other side, are the complementary spaces in the sports field area, above which there are theatrical trusses and equipment that make the structure suitable for hosting events, concerts and conferences for a large audience, opening it up to a supra-local use for the entire valley and much of the province.
Comune di Varano di Melegari
Varano di Melegari, 2006-2010/ 2007-2014
Photography Carlo Gardini
