Porta Romana airport

Designer: Skidmore, Owings & Merrill - SOM

Building type: Residences

Year of construction: 2024

The Olympic Village, designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill - SOM, marks the beginning of the extensive urban regeneration project of the Porta Romana Freight Yard, embodying the "Olympic spirit" of Milan. Originally planned to host the 2026 Winter Olympics, the Village will later be converted into student housing with approximately 1,700 beds, contributing to the vitality of the city community. In line with the "Parco Romana" Masterplan, the Village will be located in the southwest area of the Freight Yard, maintaining continuity with existing functions and the neighborhood's balance.

Its development will take into account pre and post-competition needs, aiming to create a zero environmental impact project according to NZEB (Nearly Zero Energy Building) standards, allowing the integration of spaces and services designed for athletes into the future neighborhood. The selection of materials will be guided by sustainability, prioritizing features such as recyclability, reuse, and environmental compatibility.

All buildings will be LEED^® certified, with permanent and reusable temporary structures. Sustainable energy generation will be implemented, thanks to solar, thermal, and photovoltaic systems, contributing to a significant reduction in CO2 emissions. After the Olympics, the Olympic Village will transform into a laboratory of sustainable urban experimentation, focused on people's well-being, integration, and resilience. It will evolve into a vibrant ecosystem of student housing, residences, co-working spaces, public services, and public spaces, ensuring a vibrant and inclusive future for the community.