The “Cathedral” of the Fabbrica del Vapore
| Type | Historic building |
| Intervention | Renovation |
| Location | Milan, Italy |
| Roof insulation | Isotec by Brianza Plastica – 60 mm thick, 342 mm pitch |
| Roof cladding | Interlocking clay tiles |
| Completion date | 2011 |
History
The Fabbrica del Vapore (Factory of Steam) is an industrial complex located near the Monumental Cemetery of Milan. Until 1935, it was home to Società Italiana Carminati e Toselli, a company specialising in the production of transport equipment, including railway carriages and steam locomotives. Since the 1990s, the entire site has undergone an extensive redevelopment programme led by the Municipality of Milan, aimed at restoring and repurposing the nine buildings within the complex as a hub for meetings, events and the exchange of ideas. Among these, the large building known as the “Cathedral” stands out. This impressive and expansive space was originally used for the assembly of railway carriages.
The intervention
The building today
The Fabbrica del Vapore is now one of Milan’s most prominent venues for cultural events and youth gatherings. Managed by the Municipality of Milan, it serves as a dynamic centre dedicated to creativity and entertainment, with a particular focus on contemporary art.
The large building known as the “Cathedral” stands out as the complex’s main exhibition space, hosting a wide variety of cultural exhibitions, installations and events.
