Piazza Cairoli

Oct 30

Written by Omar Dahabra

Location: Velletri , Italy
Year: 2025
Architects: expandstudio
Photography by: Federico Farinatti

The area bears the marks of post-war reconstruction following the bombings of 1944, where the surviving architectural heritage had been almost completely overwhelmed by vehicular traffic. Before the intervention, the square functioned exclusively as a parking lot.

The project turns the area into a completely pedestrian space, restoring social dynamics and diverse uses of public space by freeing the square from cars. Taking advantage of the existing average slope of 5%, the new design ensures full accessibility and continuity across the entire surface.

The paving, composed mainly of reclaimed volcanic stone—porphyry and basalt set alongside lighter limestone bands—forms a geometric pattern that aligns with the orientations of the square’s architectural landmarks, such as the tower and the fountain, clearly defining their spatial influence. Approximately 380 cubic meters of reused material were integrated into the new design, representing 85% of the total project surface.

In the lower part of the square, sixteen new tall trees have been planted, forming a garden that, together with the fountain, acts as a climatic device for the urban environment. This green area generates shaded resting zones, improving both the microclimatic comfort and the landscape quality of the public space.

The square is completed by a staircase that directly connects the northern portico with the main level of the public space. The entire ramp surface is clad in lava stone—the same material used for the urban furnishings distributed throughout the project area. Text description by the architects.

Source: www.expandstudio.it

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