The new regional headquarters of the Guardia di Finanza in Bologna, Italy, designed by DEMOGO, is an innovative office building that transforms a once marginal urban area into a striking architectural landmark. Seamlessly integrating with Bologna’s rich urban fabric, this project sets new standards for institutional design, demonstrating a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetic excellence.
New Guardia di Finanza Headquarters Technical Information
- Architects1-12: DEMOGO
- Location: Bologna, Italy
- Intervention area surface: 5,000 sqm
- Built area: 2,700 sqm
- Project Year: 2018 – 2023
- Photographs: © Iwan Baan, Courtesy of Demogo
DEMOGO has emphasized the intention to transform the ‘boundary’ into a kind of ‘third space,’ capable of offering engaging dynamics of perception and utilization.
New Guardia di Finanza Headquarters Photographs
A Masterful Integration into Bologna’s Urban Context
Situated on the periphery of Bologna, the new headquarters of the Guardia di Finanza stands at the intersection of diverse urban elements. To the north, it is bordered by the railway line and the high-speed train station. To the south, it faces the dynamic DumBO Social Center, and to the east, it meets Via Tanari and the layered cityscape of Bologna. DEMOGO’s project masterfully interprets these heterogeneous surroundings, viewing the marginal location as an opportunity for urban regeneration.
The building’s design is a testament to DEMOGO’s commitment to composure and compositional rigor. The structure, which forms a compact and articulated elevation, integrates seamlessly with the original core of the Bertarini Barracks. A distinctive feature of the new headquarters is its series of terraces, which serve as outdoor extensions of the office areas. These elevated gardens, cascading down the five above-ground floors, enhance the environmental quality of the workspace and establish a visual connection with Bologna’s urban landscape.
Dynamic Interactions and Spatial Connections
Despite its function as a military facility, the new headquarters fosters numerous connections with the surrounding urban system. DEMOGO has strategically transformed the building’s boundaries into interactive ‘third spaces’ that encourage engagement and dynamic use. A notable example is the southern façade’s elevated footbridge, which connects the new offices to the existing Bertarini Barracks, enhancing the flow and interaction within the complex.
Inside, the building is designed to prioritize environmental quality and fluidity of space. Constructed entirely with exposed concrete, the interior spaces intertwine essential structural elements with workspaces. A prominent feature is the extended staircase that traverses the entire volume of the building, visually connecting all levels and guiding movement and gaze. This staircase is a key element that disrupts the traditional spatial hierarchy, creating unexpected areas for interaction among the offices.
New Guardia di Finanza Headquarters Plans
New Guardia di Finanza Headquarters Image Gallery
About DEMOGO
Founded in 2007 by Simone Gobbo, Alberto Mottola, and Davide De Marchi, DEMOGO is a distinguished Italian architecture firm renowned for its innovative approach to complex urban contexts. The studio’s work emphasizes the evocative dimension of places, creating variable adaptations and interpretations through their architectural projects. DEMOGO’s commitment to theoretical research and perceptual relationships within significant habitats has earned them numerous awards and international recognition. Notable achievements include winning the Europan 10 competition, the Gold Medal for Italian Architecture, and projects showcased at prestigious events like the Venice Architecture Biennale.
Notes & Additional Credits
- Engineering and coordination: Sinergo Spa
Construction supervision: Sinergo: site construction management and safety coordination
Client: Agenzia del Demanio
Contractor: AeC Costruzioni
Suspended ceilings: Celenit
Communication partner and Press office: The Architecture Curator
Other companies: Gec.al Serramenti
Elevators: Schindler
Emergency doors: Ninz
Facade: Schüco
Resin floors: Ideal Work
Elevated gardens: Daku
