Complesso Marchesi, Educational complex in Pisanova, Italy
Complesso Marchesi is an educational complex in Pisa comprising multiple connected sections across an irregular lot. The structure displays exposed building elements and extensive glass surfaces, containing classroom areas, an auditorium, a cafeteria, and a swimming pool.
The Province of Pisa launched a design competition in the 1960s, selecting Luigi Pellegrin's proposal under Bruno Zevi's commission leadership. This project emerged during a period when modernist thinking was reshaping educational building design.
The complex represents a shift away from traditional classroom structures toward open, connected learning environments. The open design encourages movement and interaction between different areas of the building.
The complex features multiple entrances providing access to its various sections and facilities. Visitors should allow time to explore the interconnected layout, as movement between different areas is straightforward.
The design sparked debate when introduced due to its radical open-school approach, resulting in modifications during construction. These discussions show how challenging it was to question conventional school building ideas at that time.
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