In the small Italian town of Rotello the architects Luigi Valente and Mauro Di Bona have trasformed the historical Saint Rocco’s church into a permanent theater and multi-purpose hall.
The restoration focuses on ideas of energy saving and flexibility and the aim of the new intervention is to create a bright, contemporary theater space that respects the existing architectural shell: consequently, the exterior of the church has been retained to the existing architecture, but, upon entering, visitors are met with a new interior.
The new space is characterized by white-washed walls, ceiling and floors and creates a bright, airy atmosphere, while, at the front of the former church, a portion of the existing stone floor has been retained, so as to balance the old and new, past and present.
At the center of the space, a series of small, black armchairs occupies the room to accommodate a maximum of 100 spectators: the black color creates a strong contrast against the white interior.
Finally, to increase energy savings, LED lights have been implemented in addition to a radiant floor panel heating system, ensuring an overall reduction of emissions in the large volume.
The result is a unique location, where tradition meets innovation.
Photography is by Stefano Pedretti.
