Restoration of an event venue in Capriano del Colle
Italy
Extraordinary maintenance and enhancement of the historic Cascina San Giorgio, in the heart of the Po valley countryside.
Year
2021 – 2022
Project goals
The intervention enhanced and secured Cascina San Giorgio, a historic courtyard building in the heart of the Po Valley, through extraordinary maintenance works respectful of its architectural and landscape context. The main goal was to preserve the site’s historical and symbolic identity while making it safer and more functional for public events, in harmony with its cultural value.
Site conditions
The building, protected under the Italian Cultural Heritage Code, is part of the Ancient Nuclei system of the Municipality of Capriano del Colle. Dating back at least to the 19th century, the farmhouse retains its original courtyard layout, with brick load-bearing walls, pitched roofs, arcades, and exposed stone pillars. Despite a later residential extension on the southern side, the historic structure has preserved its original features. Before the intervention, the site was already used for public events, though it showed critical issues with the roof, systems, and emergency exits.
Design approach
The project, developed in agreement with the Superintendence, was minimal and non-invasive, aimed at conserving the existing architectural layout. Works focused on maintenance and system upgrades without significant structural or visual alterations. In particular, interventions involved the roof, entrances, and electrical and fire-prevention systems, with solutions compatible with the historic building and fully reversible over time..
Details and materials
The project included the replacement of gates with simple, functional metal elements. The roof was fully restored, maintaining the original tiles while integrating a safety system. Interior and exterior finishes were restored to their original colors. All materials were carefully selected to respect the building’s historic character, including lime-based mortars, treated metals, and the preservation of existing wooden structures.
