Three mains questions set the direction for the conceptualization and development of Chiesi Gardens by 51N4E and TEN: what is the message Chiesi wants to convey with this vision and how can this project be the image of that? How does Chiesi go from being a closed spatial organization to becoming a more public platform over time? What type of spaces offer a way of working, meeting and living, different from the conventional frameworks we know today?
What is the message Chiesi wants to convey with this vision and how can this project be the image of that?
CHIESI IS ROOTED IN HISTORY: by maintaining, restoring and transforming the 60% of the existing buildings, a clear message is send to the community and beyond that there is value in the existing.
CHIESI IS FUTURE ORIENTED: by demolishing only the 40% of the existing buildings with very low reuse potential, an opportunity will be created to build a smart, modern structure that breaks with the past.
How does Chiesi go from being a closed spatial organization to becoming a more public platform over time?
Chiesi Gardens propose a thorough re-organization of the site around two main interventions.
The first intervention introduces a new courtyard typology that binds the existing buildings on site together. The courtyard functions as a meeting point, a lush garden and a tool for access and security .
The second intervention offers an open space along the railway and Via Palermo. The relation between the new construction and the open space creates a strong gesture towards the neighborhood and far beyond.
What type of spaces offer a way of working, meeting and living, different from the conventional frameworks we know today?
Chiesi Gardens activates the relation between interior and exterior. Through specific spaces that work with Parma’s seasonal conditions, a vibrant and diverse landscape is introduced offering a future creative
environment.
The project comprises two clusters, integrating open and built spaces in a harmonious design.
The first cluster repurposes a significant portion of the existing buildings, transforming them into a spacious courtyard layout. This courtyard serves multiple purposes, acting as a conduit for nature, circulation, and access, offering a novel experiential dimension.
The newly constructed A-building forms the fourth façade of the courtyard. Despite its distinct and modern identity, it seamlessly integrates with the overall cluster, maintaining cohesion.
The northern courtyard façade is dominated by the F-building, the most recent addition to the site, completed in the 1980’s. This building is set to undergo the most extensive transformation.
Preserving and repurposing the concrete support structure, the F-building will feature a spacious and adaptable floor layout while meeting surface requirements. Specific perforations and a new bioclimatic façade system will facilitate enhanced connection with its surroundings.
Implementing a similar bioclimatic strategy for both the F and A buildings will establish a cohesive design language, seamlessly blending newly added elements with the historical aspects of the site.
The second cluster comprises the newly constructed A-building and a spacious open area situated between Via Palermo, the railway, and the Chiesi site.
This expansive open space is designed to harmonize landscape elements with climate adaptation features, offering ample opportunities for various activities such as events, dining at the bistro, or simply taking a leisurely stroll.
In contrast to the intimate and secluded courtyard, this open space serves as a welcoming invitation, boasting a lush garden for the community to enjoy and providing a visible address prominently seen from the railway and Via Palermo entrance.
