This project concerns the main building “Cathedral” of the Fabbrica del Vapore in Milan. Besides some simplification and rationalization of previous work, the building was made functionally autonomous by creating different spaces. The positioning of the catering and reception areas was planned in the west wing; moreover the facade on via Messina was reopened and directed outwards.
The aim was also to achieve the highest degree of spatial flexibility to host a variety of temporary events in the large multi-purpose hall, reducing permanent superstructures to a minimum and favoring the idea of setting up installations made for temporary exhibitions. In the opposite wing, two reinforced concrete slabs have been created, which by exploiting the current height will allow the spaces to be joined on three levels. The existing walls, entirely of exposed brick, were almost completely preserved. With the sole exception of the loggias, an aerated crawlspace was built inside the building to accommodate the subsequent paving.
The roof is supported by a wooden structure similar to the original one, in terms of both materials and shape, and will consist of a wooden plank with overlapping insulating panels on top and above these a covering layer of interlocking tiles. The transparent part of the roof will be made of glass panels supported by a metal structure. The bar is separated from the opposite covered square by a completely transparent skin, consisting of a full-height glass wall tilted five degrees on the vertical axis. Therefore, from the square it will be possible to fully appreciate the brightness and grandeur of the bar space.
SCE Project has been involved in the concept and developed structural design of the Cathedral building of the Fabbrica del Vapore
