The archive of the Fondazione Carisbo is accessible to the public within the Church of S. Giorgio in Poggiale, Bologna, now occupied by the Foundation’s Library.
After restoration of the nave and the two aisles, and of the frescoes that have decorated its walls for centuries, the large interior is now visually unified by the new oak flooring of the apse, nave and chapels. For this purpose the floor of the nave was raised to apse level, creating the effect of a long wooden platform. Access is by three steps in front of the entrance to the building. From that level visitors get a good view of the works from the Foundation’s archive which are displayed on the walls of the chapels.
The spaces are equipped with oak heartwood bookcases, reading-stands and tables for consultation of books in the Library. The Sacresty also has been restored and is part of the Library.
At the entrance, a compass, made with large pinewood bricks, acts as a filter between the entry and the exterior and leads into a consultation and study room. The wood, the only material used in this restoration project, merges respectfully into the interiors, establishing a continuity with the imposing walls and with the historic image of the place.



CREDITS

CLIENT: museo della Città di Bologna

PROJECT: aMDL Architetto Michele De Lucchi Srl - Michele De Lucchi

PROJECT TEAM: Angelo Micheli (project leader), Philippe Nigro

PHOTOGRAPHY: Mario Carrieri