History
Designed by architect Ulisse Bosisio, this Libertystyle building stands out for the richness and diversity of its decorative elements, resulting from the combination of materials, varied construction techniques and, consequently, different types of deterioration.
PROJECT
The façade incorporates a wide variety of architectural elements, playing with forms and styles, giving the whole structure dynamism and elegance. It is mainly composed of terracotta bricks, in contrast yet in perfect harmony with large surfaces decorated with cement-based renders in light, warm tones.
TECHNICAL APPROACH
An initial cleaning phase allowed for the removal of surface deposits, atmospheric dust and particles, black crusts and encrustations. It also involved the mechanical removal of previous repair fillings carried out during earlier restoration works using incompatible materials, both in terms of their composition and their impact on the proper conservation of the original material.
Specific analyses and studies were then carried out on mortar compositions, with a view to filling cracks and reconstructing small missing areas. These works were carried out using Natural Prompt Cement, combined with various carefully selected aggregates in order to achieve optimal compatibility in terms of colour, granulometry and finish, ensuring harmonious integration with the existing surfaces.
For the reconstruction of larger areas such as balcony brackets, a framework was created using fibreglass rods, fixed with pure Natural Prompt Cement and complemented with steel wires. On this structure, a mortar composed of Natural Prompt Cement and sieved river sand, dosed at 1:1, was applied and hand-shaped, based on faithful reproductions of the original forms.
For the reconstruction of the large flat balcony surfaces, the methodology consisted in installing a framework with fibreglass rods and steel wires, building a wooden formwork, pouring a Prompt / sieved sand mortar (1:1), then applying a finer finishing layer.
Finally, a localised chromatic retouch was carried out to ensure visual uniformity with the existing surfaces, followed by the application of a final protective product.
Key information
The project took 18 months.
Stakeholders
Project management / Site supervision
Milano Architettura – Studio Premoli Silva
Architect: Michele Premoli
Architect: Simona Tavarozzi
Contractors
Respedil S.r.l., Via Ponzetti 13, Morengo (BG) - Site technical management: Eng. Paolo
Fascendini
Sabbiatura Claudio Zucchetti – Sandblasting cleaning, marble and stone restoration
Conservative and aesthetic restoration
Technical direction and restoration: Anna Valeria Soragna - Conservation and restoration of works of art
Restoration
Giovanna Colombo – Conservation and restoration of works of art
