Ex Sarsa Complex

Urban regeneration project

The transformation of the former Sarsa coach depot in Reggio Emilia redefined a long-disused area, giving it a new function and a renewed role within the city’s urban fabric. The architectural and structural design reorganised the existing layout, converting it into a retail and office complex able to support new economic and urban uses.

The complex now hosts several retail activities and offices, including the Esselunga store, the largest and most significant attraction within the site.

Restoration of the historic courtyard

The first courtyard, the most representative part of the original complex, was restored through a conservation-led approach, preserving its main formal and construction features. The project balanced preservation and transformation, adding only the elements needed to make the space fully usable.

The most significant addition is the roof over the internal courtyard, designed to make the central space usable without altering the external perception of the complex.

Roof structure and technical integration

The roof was built with a steel structure supported by independent columns, avoiding any interference with the existing masonry. This structural solution ensures stability and visual lightness, while keeping the historic profile of the building clearly readable.

New buildings and functional layout

The project also included the construction of a new four-storey office building, designed as an independent volume while remaining coherent with the regenerated context. The project is completed by a two-level underground car park, integrated into the overall reorganisation of the area and sized to support the new retail and office functions.