Former Forensic Psychiatric Hospital

Restoration of the historic complex

The project concerns the restoration and renovation of the former Forensic Psychiatric Hospital in Reggio Emilia, a complex of significant historical value shaped by successive layers over time.

The main building, originally constructed as a convent in the 17th century and later converted first into a prison and then into a psychiatric facility, is complemented by four pavilions built in the early 20th century.

The project was developed to reconfigure the complex as the new offices of the Provincial Administration, while preserving the memory of the historical functions that have defined the site.

The walls that once enclosed the internal courtyards and acted as elements of separation are reinterpreted as connective devices, integrated into new glazed links between the pavilions.

Accessibility and spatial organisation

For the former monastic complex, the design prioritises the recovery of its original formal and architectural features, preceding its transformation into a prison facility.

The works include the restoration of masonry using compatible materials, the reorganisation of openings and the recovery of below-ground spaces.

The new spatial layout introduces vertical circulation systems distributed across the pavilions, together with a central core containing the main staircase and lifts, housed within a new cylindrical volume.

The overall project also addressed seismic vulnerability, with the aim of ensuring safety and long-term durability while respecting the historic character of the building.