U36 – Torre dell’Acqua

Gazing upon this unique structure, you’re standing before U36 – Torre dell’Acqua. Originally, the Torre dell’Acqua, also known as the Torre Arcobaleno (Rainbow Tower), served a practical purpose. It was a water tower for the railway. Located near Milano Porta Garibaldi station, a major hub for the city, U36 – Torre dell’Acqua stands as a testament to transformation and renewal. Imagine the scene back in 1990. During renovations for Italia ’90, this once-anonymous water tank underwent a vibrant metamorphosis. Original Designers 6R5 Network spearheaded the project, giving the tower a colorful new skin of multi-colored tiles. It was a splash of color in an otherwise unremarkable urban landscape. This transformation earned it the nickname “Rainbow Tower,” a fitting moniker for its vibrant appearance. U36 – Torre dell’Acqua stands 35 meters tall, its concave shape widening from a 10-meter diameter at the base. This unique silhouette is a recognizable part of the Milan skyline. The project’s realization in 1990 was a collaborative effort. Three major Italian companies, Mapei, Marazzi, and Tempini, contributed their expertise to bring the vision to life. Twenty-five years later, in preparation for Expo 2015, the tower received another round of care. Original Designers 6R5 Network, in collaboration with RFI Gruppo delle Ferrovie dello Stato and the Comune di Milano, oversaw the project. This time, the focus was on the exterior, with companies like Marazzi Group, Mapei, Condor Group, Fila Solutions, and Bazzea B-Construction Technology involved in the restoration. This involved carefully removing and replacing damaged tiles. The concrete ribs were also reinforced and protected using advanced materials. Even the circular roof received attention, with a specialized waterproofing system installed. U36 – Torre dell’Acqua remains a striking landmark, a colorful beacon against the Milan skyline.