Inducing a surreal physical experience through minimal maneuvers, buildings with smooth concrete panels and simple geometric volumes instinctively hint at the work of Japanese architect Tadao Ando. At an ongoing exhibition at the Centre Pompidou, photographs of the headquarters of Fabrica, Ando's first European commission in 1992, are showcased. Located near the city of Treviso, the building was an old villa restored to become a thriving creative research center.
Villa Pastega Manera, built on an area of 51,000 square meters, went through a rigorous study of traditional construction techniques and material sampling to commence the redesign. The photographs feature the harmonious integration between the historical structure and seamless renovations.
Alter Studio Architetti Associati shared with us their design, which won second place, for the Tower House Competition for Treviso, Italy, which challenged architects to refurbish a twenty story landmark in the area. The proposal transforms the existing tower into 3 attached structures, each of which is designed with its own energy strategy. Photovoltaic panels on the roof and south façade provide 60 + 15 kw of power, which combined with bioclimatic devices brings the CO2 emissions down to zero. More images and architects’ description after the break.
