“Principe Amedeo 5 Milano” project is among the finalists of the Mies van der Rohe Award.

On Tuesday 2 February, the first list of 449 projects nominated for the prestigious Mies van der Rohe Award 2022 was announced. The biennial competition dedicated to contemporary European architecture is organised by the Mies van der Rohe Foundation. Among the selected projects is “Principe Amedeo 5 Milano”, designed by Vittorio Grassi & Partners with the contribution of Lea Ceramiche. The Mies van der Rohe Award is one of the most significant competitions in the sector and, since 2001, has been the official architecture award of the European Union.

The project involved the architectural redevelopment of what was, in 1850, the headquarters of the American Consulate. Principe Amedeo is currently owned by the Thesaurus fund of Kryalos SGR, which completed its acquisition from Covivio in December 2020. The restoration and extension of the interiors respected the historic building while providing the spaces with a high degree of flexibility and versatility, accommodating 500 workstations across five floors and approximately 9,000 sqm of office space.

This is the context for the contribution of Lea Ceramiche, a Modena-based manufacturer of high-quality ceramic surfaces, long distinguished by its skilful use of ceramic material and products with a distinctive character. Its surface solutions draw inspiration both from natural materials and from styles and periods of the past, creating a well-balanced combination of contemporary design and tradition. One example is Mauk, from the Basaltina Stone Project collection, selected for the bathroom surfaces of the elegant building.

In keeping with the overall design concept, the choice of Mauk responds precisely to stylistic and functional requirements. The collection is made from Lea Ceramiche Slimtech laminated porcelain stoneware, the result of an innovative technology that has redefined the traditional concept of the tile, enabling ultra-light modules, 3.5 mm thick in this case, and oversized formats up to 3 x 1 m. Lightweight and easy to cut and install, Mauk is produced by dividing the original slab into diamond- and trapezoid-shaped modules; once installed, the repetition of these cuts creates a three-dimensional effect that engages with the past and recalls the refinement of traditional parquet floors. Mauk brings elegance and style to the surfaces while ensuring functionality, resistance and outstanding design versatility.

The project also stands out for the careful dialogue between conservative restoration and contemporary architectural elements, creating a coherent balance between the historic structure and new design solutions.

“Principe Amedeo 5”, selected among the best works completed between October 2018 and October 2020, confirms Lea Ceramiche’s ability to contribute to outstanding architectural projects in which every detail is carefully considered, with particular attention to quality and beauty. The projects completed between November 2020 and April 2021 will be added to this first selection by the Mies van der Rohe Award jury, while the winner will be announced in April 2022.