Segrate (MI), Italy - Design and architectural works management for 3M Customer Center and Auditorium - 1997

The hall, designed for 150 seats, had to be cosy, pleasant and acoustically perfect, adaptable to the currently most popular communication systems and prepared to follow the now rapid evolution in the field of communication to the public. Since it had to be realised in an already existing space, therefore with height and lighting characteristics not specific to the new function, it was decided to implement, where possible, a slight change of scale. The hall thus has characteristics typical of larger rooms, dimensioned in a more restrained manner but absolutely compatible with its full function. In spite of the relatively low available height, a sloping hall was realised both for obvious reasons of visual quality and in order not to highlight the original non-specific purpose. The seats are distributed in plan on concentric curves, accentuating the perception of width of the room, and divided into two groups, with a good offset of the visual axis. The inclinations of the two seating sections are different. The false ceiling made of fireproof wood panels follows a different slope from those of the seats, accentuating the perspective and supporting the distribution of the air conditioning ducts of decreasing section. Between the ceiling panels, in a recessed position, all the necessary systems are organised, such as air supply vents, lighting, loudspeakers and smoke detectors. The air intake is placed under the seats, taking advantage of the slope of the room. The different floorings, the use of coloured plaster, fabric and metal for the vertical cladding, together with the articulated system of unevenness help to break up the volumes and identify a precise functional order. Thus the presence of several coordinated elements accentuates the change of scale in the initial intentions, contributing to making it seem much larger than it actually is. The auditorium is accessible from a large foyer equipped with exhibition areas and audiovisual facilities, while a large area has been left free to allow temporary set-ups for special events.