Buildings - An architectual approach

Important examples of modern architecture in Lugano are the Mixed-Use Building, via Ciani, the Caimato Offices, via Maggio and the Banca del Gottardo, viale Franscini; three works by Mario Botta, one of the most famous Ticino architects.
Derived from given urban situations, the designs provide consistent architectural responses, exercising a purifying effect on the urban context. Special emphasis is given on the image as a determining factor.



In the great cylinder at Molino Nuovo, the volumetric tension is reflected in the inner spatial organisation, while at the Caimato Building, the handling of the external surfaces alludes to traditional practice.


Botta uses large vertical cuts and so light, essential elements in his works, to give more feeling to the Building of Banca del Gottardo.



Reference: M.Daguerre, Birkhäuser Architectural Guide Switzerland 20th Century


To know more:
www.botta.ch
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mario_Botta


Enjoy! By Daniele Cereghetti, Dunai Ferenc & Magni Elisabetta

Buildings - A tourist approach

If you are in Lugano, you can't miss the San Lorenzo Cathedral! This fabulous building is situated over the city centre, near to the funicular which brings you to the railway station. I didn't know that it was so ancient: it was built in 875 and now it is facing a period of restoration. This Cathedral is envied by the most beautiful Italian cities... so if you are there you have to go and see how great it is!!!

Go and have a look to the City Hall too. It was built in 1844 with the proposal of being the headquarters for the cantonal parliament. It was built with the money of Lugano citizen and its particularity is that it was a really expensive project. So go and read the plate dedicated to Lugano’s people... It is situated in the heart of the city, dominating the well-known “Piazza Riforma”. It is a really nice building you can't miss it!!!

I was then walking along via Trevano and I saw this interesting building… "Banca del Gottardo". I discovered that it was built in 1988 by the famous architect Mario Botta. I was surprised by its dimensions and by the fact that this enormous building is only a bank… it is one of the biggest banks in Lugano!!! Go and see it: Lugano is famous for its banks!!!

To know more:
www.lugano.ch
www.lugano-tourism.ch
www.gottardo.ch

Enjoy! By Daniele Cereghetti, Dunai Ferenc & Magni Elisabetta