In the heart of Milan, a pioneering experiment in lightweight prefabrication is finally getting the recognition it deserves, decades after its inception. The Laveno Street houses, designed by the late Italian architect and designer Marco Zanuso, are a testament to the potential of industrialized building methods, and their story is one that could reshape the future of construction, particularly in the energy sector.
Zanuso, a major figure in Italy’s building industrialization debate, collaborated with FEAL (Fonderie Elettriche Alluminio e Leghe), a prominent Italian company specializing in steel construction systems and aluminum building components. Together, they experimented with the VAR/M3 prefabricated system, initially designed for school buildings, and applied it to two housing complexes in Milan. The first of these, located on Laveno Street, was completed between 1960 and 1963 and has since been hailed for its innovative approach and striking design.
Giovanni Conca, lead author of a recent study published in the journal ‘Tema’ (which translates to ‘Theme’ in English), sheds light on the significance of this project. “The Laveno Street houses represent one of the most interesting experiences in Italy about light prefabrication,” Conca states. “The formal result achieved was favourably received by critics at the time, but it remains little studied today.”
The VAR/M3 system, with its lightweight and modular design, offered several advantages. It allowed for rapid construction, reduced waste, and lower labor costs. But perhaps its most significant impact could be felt in the energy sector. The lightweight nature of the prefabricated components meant less material was used, reducing the embodied energy of the buildings. Additionally, the modular design allowed for easy integration of energy-efficient systems, such as solar panels or advanced insulation materials.
Conca’s research, though focused on the architectural merits of the Laveno Street houses, also hints at the potential energy savings that could be achieved through similar methods. “The experimental approach and formal result achieved by Zanuso are still relevant today,” Conca notes. “They offer valuable insights into how we can build more sustainably and efficiently.”
The Laveno Street houses, with their innovative use of lightweight prefabrication, offer a blueprint for the future of construction. As the energy sector continues to seek ways to reduce its carbon footprint, the lessons learned from this project could prove invaluable. By embracing industrialized building methods, we can create structures that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also energy-efficient and sustainable.
The story of the Laveno Street houses is a reminder that innovation often lies in looking back as well as forward. As we strive to build a more sustainable future, it’s crucial that we learn from the past. The work of Zanuso and FEAL, as highlighted by Conca’s research, provides a compelling case study in how we can do just that.
