MINERVA PALACE, LUGANO / The future is contagious. Studio Antorini’s design overcomes the relationship with existing buildings and gives the district an indication of the future of the centre of Lugano.

The new office building in via Pelli maximises use of floor space and volume with a precise structural system which is revealed in the linearity of the facades. Function takes a shape. The main facade and that opposite feature large windows crossed by grill elements which act as a shield and define the building’s aesthetic footprint.

On the fifth and sixth floors, the building volume is partially empty facing East. A lovely roof garden has been created in this opening.
The interior is organized around a central nucleus of services which divides the offices of the East and West wings, designed as flexible open spaces.

At road level, the structure is set back forming an overhanging porch which helps create a walkway.

The two underground levels were created with the Drytech White Tank waterproof structure.