From “Definitive” to “Reversible” Architecture

How does a project emerge in relation to the extisting built environment? This seemingly simple question implies complex answers that are not always exhaustive. For this reason, it is often necessary to recalibrate the mind toward new approaches doing so allows for more innovative solution that effectively address social, formal and environmental issues, especially in relation to the existing building. The type of modality I propose is that of intervention on the existing through installations, which, by their nature, are modular, removable and easily recyclable and overlap the already made, reducing waste and respecting the pre-existing structures. This approach can be divided into two categories: “definitive” and “reversible” interventions. Among the first is the restoration of Liliana Grassi in the courtyard of the icehouse of the Ospedale Maggiore in Milan, where the new intervention is clearly distinguished from the pre-existing one. Or the intervention of Carlo Scarpa at the Castelvecchio Museum where the architect restores the entire factory and designs the exhibition apparatus harmoniously integrating it with the context, through a deep study of pre-existence. Another significant work is that of Ezio De Felice at the Archaeological Museum of Salerno, composed of a steel structure that supports the ancient architectural system, transforming it into an exhibition object. Integration tends to create an innovative and modern space while preserving purely historical elements. As for “reversible” interventions, we can mention the projects of Franco Albini, such as the exhibition of Italian Contemporary Art in Stockholm (1953) or the Montecatini stand with Franca Helg (1961). In these cases, the use of lightweight and removable frames allows a temporary interaction, thus respecting the built space. Adaptation and reversibility make it possible to regenerate the degraded built with limited resources, returning a new function, even if only temporary. This approach makes it possible to design in an agile, sustainable and context-sensitive way, offering formal and environmental solutions in continuous evolution.