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Sonder Building, a LEED Gold architecture in Milan

angus fiori architects

Renovation  /  Completed
angus fiori architects

The project involved the complete renovation of an obsolete existing residential and commercial building in a historical context of Milan characterized by the presence of the Mausoleo Trivulzio by Bramantino and the Velasca Tower by BBPR. The idea was to create a new discrete high quality design in a sensitive area, where the integration of materials and new shapes is studied in the smallest details, as well as the multiple biocompatibility and eco-sustainability solutions of the design that has received the LEED Gold certification.

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View of the Sonder Building (on the left) and Corso Porta Romana

The project respects the existing heights and alignments, proposing a contemporary language that engages with the adjacent urban fabric. In particular, the ventilated façade on Corso di Porta Romana, which is made of natural trachyte stone — a highly popular material in Milanese architecture of the 60's that fits perfectly into the context of San Nazaro in Brolo and piazza Velasca. The other materials were then carefully matched to harmonize with the environment, aiming to enhance the urban setting without creating an unnecessary repetition, promoting continuity and architectural quality.

Main facade view close up

The project obtained LEED Gold certification, by maintainig high standards of sustainability and biocompatibility. Materials were selected through LCA analysis, and various contemporary technologies were implemented to maximize energy efficiency; such as complex geothermal system, ventilated façades and the photovoltaic system, that was optimized to minimize shading and improve solar exposure. The roof includes climbing greenery and planters to reduce the heat island effect. Compositional choices integrate technical systems into the architectural envelope for a more cohesive and sustainable result.

View of the main facade from Corso Porta Romana

This project enhances the site not only by replacing a degraded building with a new one of higher architectural and environmental quality, but also by reinterpreting the Milanese tradition through contemporary materials and a sensitive urban approach. Its strengths lie in the balance between formal identity and discretion, the improved livability of all units, and the integration of multiple sustainable design solutions — from passive to active bioclimatic systems. The intervention contributes in an innovative way to the overall renewal of the neighborhood whilst supporting the local architectural tradition through the conscious choice in favour of wood and stone as key materials.

Back facade detail
An intervention that combines architectural quality and sustainability, enhancing the urban context in which it is set.

Credits

 Milano
 Italy
 Ca. Gero s.r.l., Sonder
 Hotel | Apartments | Commercial
 01/2025
 3000 sq. m
 Confidential
 Angus Fiori Architects
 Angus Fiori, Daniele Magliacano, Francesca Maccadanza, Stefano Canziani, Tatiana Pletneva
 Edil Ferri Spa
 TUBES, Iris Ceramica, Cielo, Ritmonio, Liuni-Bolon
 Andrea Martiradonna

Bio

Angus Fiori architects is a highly innovative architectural studio based in Milan. During the past twenty years our studio took part in the development of many different projects of architectural design. We have designed residential and commercial buildings, hotels, wellness centers and shopping malls. We have renovated historical buildings, villas and private houses in Italy, Turkey, China and the Middle East. Angus Fiori architects has a list of prestigious clients such as corporations, asset managers, real estate operators and construction companies.
During the last ten years we have become highly specialized in sustainable architectural design studying all topics in this field such as the focus of contextualization in the design approach the use of local resources the design of an acoustic and energy efficient building envelope, the use of technologies that refer to bioclimatic architecture and renewable energy, and the use of dry construction systems and prefabrication.

https://www.fiori.mi.it/2024/0...


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