STRUCTURAL MEMBRANES 2025

Parametric Technological Modeling Tools and Techniques for Public Spaces: Designing a New Tensile Roof in Milan

  • Viscuso, Salvatore (Politecnico di Milano - ABC Dept.)
  • Piantato, Giorgio (Arti e Tecnologie Studio Aassociato)
  • Zanelli, Alessandra (Politecnico di Milano - ABC Dept.)

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The contribution outlines the design experimentation resulting from the research collaboration between the DABC Department of Politecnico di Milano and the Municipality of Cinisello Balsamo, within the Milan Metropolitan Area, aimed at creating a socially engaging space that stands out within the city's urban fabric. The Municipal Administration seeks to equip a public space – adjacent to the historic “Villa Ghirlanda” park – to host a variety of events (musical/recreational, social, commercial, etc.) without compromising the residential character of the surrounding neighbourhood. Furthermore, the absence of a dedicated community gathering place in the city must be reconciled with the urban value of Via Meani, a well-established historical route that allows pedestrians to reach the project area from the city centre within minutes. Scientific and technical support for the municipal technical offices was structured around three main lines of action. First, the project was developed through predictive control of expected performance using computational design software [1]. Second, the project concept envisions a new collective space that recalls an urban form deeply rooted in the memory of Cinisello Balsamo, a symbol of social aggregation and a privileged venue for outdoor events. The new square echoes the elliptical layout of the former Piazza Gramsci configuration (known as "the pearl"), with the aim of revitalizing its function and restoring meaning to the lost urban landmark through the creation of a contemporary event area. Finally, dynamic structural design, integrated with parametric modelling, enabled a reduction of approximately 25% in the amount of steel required for the construction of the two mirrored structural arches (23,579 kg) compared to a preliminary dimensioning calculated according to the NTC 2018 regulations (31,391 kg). Consequently, by minimizing the required steel quantity, the project becomes lighter, more cost-effective, and sustainable, thus achieving maximum efficiency [2].