BluParma

The project stems from the study of the defining elements of the site, which, although it may initially appear anonymous and flat, presents several distinctive features. Among the elements within the site, in addition to the existing mature trees, the architecture of the school buildings was identified as a defining characteristic. These buildings are characterised by a rigid functionalism and geometric rigor, articulated through the façade layouts and prefabricated construction elements. This “functionalist” built environment effectively represents the technical and scientific character of the institutions it houses.
The redesign of the outdoor space begins by translating the rigid rhythm of the building façades onto the ground, generating a new planimetric matrix composed of bands perpendicular to and parallel with the buildings, in continuity with the façade pattern. The paving is permeable, with the same material simply alternating between strips of larger and smaller aggregate sizes to emphasise the rhythm of the bands.
A fluid compositional element is then introduced into this new regular grid laid out on the ground, softening and breaking the rigidity of the composition through its planimetric design. These are linear concrete elements that define new green spaces and pathways, creating “green islands” formed by gentle rises and mounds of earth. The pattern of the bands continues across the green islands, where different plant species are arranged in alternating strips.

Location
Parma

Year
2021

Typology
School Space

Status
2nd Place

Competition Organizer
Comune di Parma