“A mushroom in the skyline?” That’s what some Milanese call the Torre Velasca. It stands tall here in Milan. The Torre Velasca is more than just a building. It is a symbol of architectural innovation.
Let’s delve into the history and unique design of the Torre Velasca. Completed in 1958, the Torre Velasca was designed by the BBPR architectural partnership. They sought to blend modern design with Milan’s historical context. The tower rises 75 meters high. Its antenna spire adds another 23 meters. This brings the total height to 98 meters. Its mushroom-like shape makes it stand out against the city skyline.
The design draws inspiration from Lombardy’s medieval fortresses. These fortresses typically had narrower bases and upper parts supported by beams. The Torre Velasca mirrors this design. It offers narrower surfaces at the bottom. Wider and more spacious areas grace the top floors. This design cleverly met functional needs and town planning laws.
The Torre Velasca stands near the Duomo and the University of Milan. It sits strategically between Corso di Porta Romana and Via Larga. A Missori metro station exit is conveniently located in front of it. This location underscores its central role in Milan’s urban landscape.
The upper third of the Torre Velasca juts out. This design evokes medieval watchtowers. These towers once protected Italian castles. BBPR connected the modern building to its historic past this way. They prevented the new addition from feeling out of place.
The Torre Velasca’s stone material adds to its medieval resemblance. Supporting struts stabilize the projecting section. These elements mimic Gothic features found in surrounding structures. BBPR designed the Torre Velasca with its surroundings in mind.
Unlike many buildings built along street fronts, the Torre Velasca sits in the center of its site. This encourages the use of the plaza space. The tower’s narrow bottom makes this possible. It also suits the building’s multifunctional purpose. The lower floors house shops, offices, and exhibitions. The upper stories offer apartments with stunning city views.
The combination of commercial and residential use was deliberate. It aimed to prevent the weakening of city centers. This often happens when office buildings replace residential ones.
Even the window arrangement reflects functionality. Instead of repetitive patterns, the Torre Velasca features varied arrangements. Empty walls, open windows, and reflective glass create unique patterns. This caters to the diverse needs of its occupants.
Piazza Velasca, the square surrounding the tower, is undergoing redesign. Asti Architetti leads this renovation. They aim to restore the complex as a symbol of Milan’s architectural heritage. The redesigned square will feature modern urban furniture. Green areas with seasonal greenery will also feature.
The pavement uses trachyte slabs inspired by historic Milanese squares. The pavement design extends the ribbed pillars of the Torre Velasca. Red porphyry cubes reconnect the block with Via Velasca. The perimeter will have granite sidewalks.
Two historic street lamps designed by BBPR will be restored. Other light sources will use LED lighting. The renovation includes spaces for Milan’s bike-sharing service. This integrates the Torre Velasca into the concept of the 15-minute city.
Paolo Asti says the redesign aims to return the tower’s ground junction to the city. It seeks to reinterpret its relationship with the surroundings. The goal is to create a space that enhances the tower’s architectural aspects. This encourages constant interaction with the city.
So, next time you’re near the Duomo, take a stroll over to the Torre Velasca. See how it bridges Milan’s past and present. The Torre Velasca stands as a testament to architectural vision. It is a symbol of Milanese identity.