The project for the new "Pier Cironi" school complex in Prato arose from the need to replace the existing school building, which no longer met current seismic retrofitting regulations. Our proposal involved the construction of a new school complex, which will house an elementary school, a secondary school and a gymnasium with a regulation volleyball court.
The design of the new school hub is characterized by sinuous and organic forms, which give a dynamic and welcoming appearance to the entire complex. The three buildings that make up the hub are interconnected by a canopy roof, which not only connects the entrances, but also creates a central plaza that becomes the beating heart of the campus. This plaza, surrounded by the three buildings, serves as a meeting and socializing space for students and teachers, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
We used the same construction technologies for all the buildings, while still keeping each building and the canopy structurally independent. This approach allowed us to design each structure separately, while ensuring the seismic safety and overall efficiency of the complex.
The project fits perfectly into the broader urban change that the city of Prato is implementing through the "Prato Urban Jungle" municipal initiative. We wanted the new school complex to be not only a place of learning, but also a significant contribution to the city's sustainable transformation. Integrating the project with urban greenery and environmental sustainability was one of our priorities.
To ensure that educational activities could continue without interruption during construction, we planned the construction site in well-defined phases. Work was divided into three macro phases, allowing for careful control and a clean and safe working environment. This approach ensured that the transition to the new building took place in an orderly manner and with minimal impact on daily school activities.
With the new "Pier Cironi" school complex, we want to offer the Prato community a modern, safe and stimulating place for the education of the younger generation, while contributing to the growth and urban renewal of the city.