Building heroes

Gioia 22: redefining Milan’s skyline

Gioia 22 stands out in Milan’s prestigious Porta Nuova district. Completed in 2021, this modern classic is home to companies like HSBC, Microsoft, Versace, Google, Accenture, and Axa. As Italy’s first nearly net-zero office building, it illustrates how smart, sustainable design can be bellissimo. With 25 stories, it ranks as the #10 tallest building in Milan and #18 tallest in Italy. Built entirely of concrete, Gioia 22 shows both strength and elegance.

A team effort
A great team brought Gioia 22 to life. Pelli Clarke Pelli Architects, led by Gregg E. Jones, Robert Narracci, and Marcus Myerholtz, designed the building with eco-friendliness and community in mind. Developer COIMA, known for its focus on sustainable city projects, played a key role. Permasteelisa Group created the striking façade, which features over 6,000 square meters of solar panels, while Transsolar Energietechnik GmbH helped improve the building’s energy efficiency.

Future-proof and fabulous
Gioia 22 exceeds green expectations in many ways. It uses 75% less energy than traditional office buildings, and uses 15% less energy than Milan’s local energy efficiency regulations require. The building also relies on renewable sources for 65% of its heating and cooling needs, further reducing its environmental impact. Stylish sunshades help keep the building cool, reducing the need for air conditioning and saving energy. Its innovative design earned the Façade Engineering Award 2022 Award of Excellence from the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat. As Milan’s City Councilor for Urban Planning, Pierfrancesco Maran, said, “This project shows that great design and sustainability can go hand-in-hand.”

Embracing the outdoors
Gioia 22 beautifully blends work and nature, serving as a community hub with bike lanes, walking paths, and electric vehicle charging stations. Its proximity to the Biblioteca degli Alberi Park – the third largest park in Milan – encourages everyone to step outside and embrace the outdoors. The building’s thoughtful design promotes a healthy work-life balance, creating a welcoming and sustainable environment.

Italian futurism
Gioia 22’s sharp shape, inspired by the Alps, reflects Italian futurism, a movement from the early 20th century that celebrated modern life, speed, and technology. This style breaks away from traditional designs and focuses on bold lines and new materials. With its large glass windows offering great views of Milan, Gioia 22 creates a bright and inspiring workspace that encourages creativity and fresh ideas.

📸: Hufton + Crow

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