Torre Locatelli, 1930s tower in Municipio 2, Milan, Italy.
Torre Locatelli is a residential tower that rises approximately 67 meters over 17 floors with a light marble base extending through the first three levels. The structure combines living spaces with office areas and features a monumental double-height portico on the facade facing Via Pisani.
Architect Mario Bacciocchi designed this residential tower between 1936 and 1939 as part of a planned twin-tower gateway to Milan Central Station. The tower was constructed during a period of urban transformation, though its intended companion building was never completed.
The building displays terracotta cornices every two floors above the base, while the side facing Via Pisani shows rationalist reliefs depicting different trades. These decorative elements reflect the idea that work and craftsmanship were central to the city's growth.
The building sits at a prominent corner in the city center and is easily accessible by public transport serving the plaza. The large portico area on the main facade provides a generous passage space, though the interior is typically not open to the public.
The plaza before the tower is now defined by Torre Breda, which was built later on the spot where its intended twin tower was never constructed. This shift shows how plans for this gateway site to the city evolved in unexpected ways over time.
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