The Schifanoia Museum, located in the heart of Palazzo Schifanoia in Ferrara, Italy, represents a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the museum holds cultural and historical significance, showcasing a harmonious blend of historic preservation and contemporary design following its renewal after the 2012 earthquake. This transformation ensures accessibility and provides immersive experiences for a diverse audience.
Schifanoia Museum in Ferrara Technical Information
- Architects1-10: QB Atelier
- Location: Palazzo Schifanoia, Ferrara, Italy
- Topics: Museums
- Area: 1,400 m2 | 15,000 Sq. Ft.
- Project Year: 2017 – 2021
- Photographs: © Pietro Savorelli
Our approach to the Schifanoia Museum was to create a dialogue between the Renaissance and contemporary needs, ensuring that the space remains accessible and relevant while respecting its historical essence.
– Filippo Govoni and Federico Orsini, QB Atelier
Schifanoia Museum in Ferrara Photographs
A Contemporary Vision for a Historic Landmark
Under the guidance of Filippo Govoni and Federico Orsini, QB Atelier redefined the Schifanoia Museum’s exhibition experience through an approach steeped in artisanal sensitivity and adaptive reuse. Their design respects the building’s Renaissance heritage while introducing contemporary elements that enhance functionality. Using geometrically precise display systems and dark bronze tones pays homage to the palace’s original aesthetic.
Key spaces such as the Salone dei Mesi and the Borsian Wing have been unified, creating a cohesive narrative that spans 21 rooms and 1,400 square meters of exhibition space. Approximately 250 works are now on display, complemented by multimedia installations that provide virtual reconstructions of the palace’s historical phases, enriching the visitor experience.
Designing for Inclusivity and Accessibility
A cornerstone of the redesign is its commitment to inclusivity. Architectural barriers have been removed, and pathways adjusted to ensure accessibility for all visitors. Beyond physical access, the design embraces cognitive and sensory engagement through inclusive digital tools and multimedia features.
Collaboration with advocacy groups such as Ferrara’s Disability Area Committee and national organizations for the visually and hearing impaired has been integral to the project’s success. These efforts underscore the museum’s dedication to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for diverse audiences.
The Schifanoia Museum Renovation Visitor Experience
The modular exhibition systems QB Atelier designed are adaptable and elegant, offering flexible solutions tailored to the museum’s diverse collection. Custom lighting highlights both the artwork and the architectural features, creating a harmonious interplay between the two.
Spaces like the Salone dei Mesi showcase how contemporary design can enhance historical narratives. Lightweight and minimally invasive installations emphasize the decorated ceilings of the Quattrocento Wing while preserving the integrity of the original structure. Natural and artificial lighting further enhance the contemplative atmosphere, inviting visitors to engage deeply with the space.
Despite a modest budget, QB Atelier’s innovative approach has maximized impact. By employing lightweight materials and adaptable systems, the redesign complements the palace’s historic fabric without overshadowing it.
A Blueprint for Future Museum Design
The Schifanoia Museum sets a new benchmark for integrating modern design within historic contexts. By expanding the exhibition space and enhancing accessibility, QB Atelier has demonstrated how contemporary interventions can respect and elevate heritage. Their broader portfolio, including urban revitalization projects and public housing developments, highlights their ability to respond to diverse challenges with sensitivity and innovation.
The methodology employed at the Schifanoia Museum offers valuable insights for architects tackling similar projects. QB Atelier’s balance of preservation and modernity positions them as leaders in adaptive reuse and inclusive design.
Schifanoia Museum in Ferrara Plans
Schifanoia Museum in Ferrara Image Gallery
About QB Atelier
QB Atelier is an architectural studio founded in 2010 by Filippo Govoni and Federico Orsini in Ferrara, Italy. Known for their artisanal craftsmanship and innovative approach, the firm specializes in adaptive reuse and contemporary design within historically significant contexts. Their projects, including museum renovations, public housing, and urban revitalization, reflect a deep sensitivity to cultural heritage and modern functionality.
Notes & Additional Credits
- Design Team: QB Atelier (Filippo Govoni and Federico Orsini); Giovanni Sassu, Head of Ancient Art Museums Unit; Maria Teresa Gulinelli, Curator of Archaeological and Numismatic Collections
Lighting Design: Salone dei Mesi: Studio Pasetti Lighting, Treviso, with iGuzzini illuminazione; Borsian Wing and Display Cases: Illuminare Srl, Parma; Albertian Wing: Reggiani Spa Illuminazione, Sovico
- Structural Design: Ing. Matteo Marotto
Project Manager: Ing. Paolo Rebecchi
- Design Phases: June 2017 – June 2021
Execution: January 2020 – October 2021
- Client: Municipality of Ferrara, Department of Culture, Museums, Historic Monuments, and Ferrarese Civilization
Disability Advocate Groups: Ferrara Disability Area Committee, Italian Union of the Blind and Visually Impaired (Ferrara Section), National Association for the Deaf (Ferrara Section), Il Nodo APS Association
Multimedia Services: Museum Interaction eXperience Srl and Tryeco 2.0 Srl, Ferrara
Budget: €400,000
