Embracing Timelessness
The refurbishment of La Rinascente Department Store by 2050+ architects is rooted in the belief that modernity transcends fleeting trends. Rather than adhering to superficial aesthetics, the project focuses on enduring qualities such as materials and functionality. For 2050+, being modern means embodying evolution and transformation, rather than merely imitating a particular style.
Restoring Legacy, Embracing Innovation
The project’s ethos revolves around striking a delicate balance between preservation and innovation. Interventions are not dictated by formality but by practical considerations aimed at revitalizing the original structure. By strategically replacing specific building components, the architects breathe new life into La Rinascente, adapting it to contemporary standards while honoring its historical significance.
Fusion of Past and Present
One notable addition is the panoramic elevator, echoing the design language of the original stairwell from 1957. This technical marvel seamlessly integrates into the facade, enhancing internal circulation and offering direct access to the sixth-floor restaurant. Furthermore, the restoration of shop windows and courtyard glass surfaces revives the building’s transparency, accentuating its architectural grandeur.
Spatial Harmony
Interiors are meticulously designed to complement Albini and Helg’s architectural vision. Modular displays, lighting fixtures, and an ashlar wall accentuate the original features, creating a cohesive aesthetic. A graphic partition on the ceiling introduces a triangular motif, adding dynamism to the space, while the reopening of the terrace provides a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor realms.
A Journey Through Time and Space
The refurbished La Rinascente Department Store offers visitors a captivating journey through history and urbanity. From the panoramic views of Rome atop the sixth floor to the transparent glass surfaces revealing the inner workings of the building, every aspect of the design invites exploration and discovery. By seamlessly blending past and present, 2050+ architects have transformed La Rinascente into a timeless icon of modernity.
