Carlo Ratti’s Vision for Palazzo Mondadori

Radical redesign by CRA-Carlo Ratti Associati transforms historic Milan landmark, the Palazzo Mondadori,  into a dynamic workspace. By: Nikitha Sunil Vallikad

The iconic Palazzo Mondadori in Milan, designed by Oscar Niemeyer, underwent a radical transformation by CRA-Carlo Ratti Associati in collaboration with Generali Real Estate and the late Italo Rota. The ambitious project reimagines the office as a playground, creating a dynamic workspace that merges modern functionality with sustainable innovation.

The renovation project, spearheaded by CRA-Carlo Ratti Associati, involves a significant redesign of over 20,000 square meters within Niemeyer’s masterpiece, maintaining its historic essence while introducing a forward-thinking approach to office environments. “In order to get us out of the comfort of our pyjama Zoom calls, office spaces need to become more like playgrounds,” says Carlo Ratti, founding partner of CRA. This philosophy drives the project’s vision, emphasising flexibility, collaboration, and connection to nature.

Preserving History, Innovating Future

The original Palazzo Mondadori, built between 1968 and 1975, features an innovative design: a suspended glass box supported by parabolic arches above an artificial lake. These arches create rhythm and harmony, highlighting the building’s horizontal expanse and timeless appeal. The contrast between the sleek glass and the robust concrete adds to the building’s aesthetic appeal. The glass facade allows abundant natural light, creating a bright interior that integrates with the environment.

CRA’s renovation honours the age-old legendary design while adapting to modern workplace needs by refurbishing 1,300 modular furniture units from USM, incorporating open shelves, closed compartments, wood enhancements, and spaces for plants.

The renovation also redesigns desks and meeting rooms to encourage informal encounters, maximize natural light, and blend indoor and outdoor elements.

Sustainable and Adaptive Design

The landscape around the lake is adorned with lush greenery, including trees and shrubs that soften the architecture’s rigid lines, embodying Niemeyer’s design philosophy of harmonising built and natural environments.

The reflective water body designed by landscape architect Pietro Porcinai further enhances the visual symmetry and tranquility of the site, creating a serene environment. Pathways and seating areas are thoughtfully placed to encourage outdoor activities and relaxation.

Sustainability is central to the renovation, incorporating energy-efficient systems and recycled materials. Natural elements within the office space enhance aesthetics and promote well-being and productivity among employees.

“Our approach integrates nature into the workspace, making it a more inviting and stimulating environment,” notes Ratti. Large, leafy plants are positioned in planters incorporated into the modular storage units and freestanding sections. The office design features a mix of wood, metal, and glass, with wood adding warmth, metal providing durability, and glass promoting transparency and natural light flow. Tables are designed with angular legs and a matte finish, providing ample space for work and meetings. The chairs are ergonomic, featuring a contemporary design that combines comfort with style. The ceiling’s unique, textured design of white geometric tiles adds depth, visual interest, and acoustic management in the open-plan office.

Redefining Workspaces for Tomorrow

The reimagined workspace aligns with CRA’s ongoing research into the future of work environments, exploring how adaptable spaces can facilitate meaningful interactions. This project is part of a broader portfolio that includes notable works like CapitaSpring in Singapore and the Zambon headquarters in Milan.

The transformation of Palazzo Mondadori by CRA-Carlo Ratti Associati, raises intriguing questions about the future of workspaces. Blending sustainability, flexibility, and innovation, it bridges  Niemeyer’s architectural heritage with contemporary needs. This visionary project sets a new standard for office design, creating a reconfigurable environment that enhances productivity and creativity in the post-pandemic era. As workplaces continue to evolve, this project highlights how historical spaces can be preserved while meeting the demands of a dynamic, interconnected world.

FACTFILE

Location: Milan, Italy

Creative lead: Italo Rota

CRA Team: Carlo Ratti, Francesco Strocchio, Chiara Leonzio, Marco Santini, Nicolette Marzovilla, Rodolfo Siccardi, Jelena Krco, Gary Di Silvio, Pasquale Milieri, Gianluca Zimbardi

Italo Rota: Francesca Grassi

Maestro Technologies: Mykola Murashko, Sara Zamperion, Eren Sezer

Photos: DSL Studio- Delfino Sisto Legnani, Melania Delle Grave