“Imagine living in a garden.” That was likely the thought behind Quartiere Pirelli’s design. This residential complex offers a green escape from the urban sprawl. Let’s delve into the story of this unique Milanese neighborhood.
Quartiere Pirelli, built from 1958 to 1960, stands as a testament to innovative urban planning. It sits near Viale Sarca, straddling the boundary between Cinisello Balsamo and Milan. The project aimed to provide housing for workers of the nearby Pirelli factory.
The architects Vico Magistretti, Eugenio Gentili Tedeschi, Nicola Righini, and Egidio Dell’Orto shaped its design. Their vision prioritized cost-effective solutions. They used prefabricated construction techniques. This helped create quality housing more efficiently.
Spanning over 26,000 square meters, Quartiere Pirelli is designed as a vast public garden. Imagine families strolling along pedestrian paths. Children laugh in play areas. Perhaps a casual football match unfolds. Bicycle paths wind through the greenery.
The buildings comprise two main types. Four three-story linear buildings define the lot’s edges. Also, three nine-story towers rise within the green space. These towers and blocks house a total of 290 apartments.
The ground floors of the towers are open. The connecting blocks between the horizontal sections also have open spaces. These areas often house elevators. However, some accommodate small apartments. The towers feature ten apartments per floor. The taller buildings have four units on each level. The attic levels boast large loggias, altering the dimensions of two facades.
The construction techniques of Quartiere Pirelli are noteworthy. The towers use prefabricated reinforced concrete frames. These frames are filled with masonry and finished with silicone paint. The lower buildings use a more traditional Terranova plaster. Eternit slabs cover all blocks. Black grit highlights the structural lines of the towers. It also frames the windows.
Pirelli was designed as an expansion of residential areas. It was specifically for the factory workers. After the factory’s relocation, the area underwent redevelopment. Gregotti Associati designed a master plan. It was implemented between 1986 and 1999.
Today, Quartiere Pirelli remains a well-maintained residential area. Its green spaces provide a valuable oasis. The architecture reflects a commitment to innovative design. The good condition of the structures shows thoughtful upkeep. The materials used in the facades and roofs still look great. The window frames are well-preserved.
As you wander through Quartiere Pirelli, consider its history. The innovative construction techniques aimed to reduce costs. The design focused on creating a community. Imagine the lives of the families who first lived here. Envision them enjoying the green spaces. Quartiere Pirelli embodies a vision of modern living. It combines functionality with a connection to nature.