Preserving the past while embracing the future is the delicate balance contemporary architecture must achieve, especially when revitalising historic heritage. Every building tells a story, a layering of memory and identity that cannot be overlooked. But how can we reconcile respect for the past with the demands of functionality, sustainability, and modernity?
Politecna Europa has taken up this challenge, combining expertise in conservation with an innovative design approach. A concrete example is the project for the Former Randaccio Barracks here, we are working to breathe new life into a historic building through an intervention that will transform it into a hub for modern offices, integrating sustainable solutions that respect the original architectural context. To delve deeper into this topic, we interviewed Marco Nota, architect and Head of Historical and Architectural Heritage Conservation at Politecna, who guided us on a fascinating journey through the historical legacy and the future of spaces.
Marco, why is it essential to restore historic architecture?
Historic architecture is a part of our collective identity. We often think of it as something to be admired, but it is also affected by time and change. It’s the responsibility of designers to ensure that these structures don’t fade away but remain relevant. There is also a sustainability factor: think of the land used for new construction today while existing buildings are left to decay. Our country is rich in heritage – barracks, palaces, villas, theatres – that have been defeated by time, but with careful restoration, they can be rehabilitated and brought back into use.
What are the main challenges for designers working in historical contexts?
The main challenge is to reconcile legal requirements with design needs. At Politecna, thanks partly to our collaboration with Planet, we are firmly committed to innovation and always looking for new solutions to improve people’s experience. The challenge is to see conservation regulations as not a limitation but an opportunity. At Politecna, we’ve developed many exemplary projects in this field. Today, we are one of Italy’s most successful companies in heritage restoration.
