ROME HAS TAKEN AN IMPORTANT STEP TOWARD THE REQUALIFICATION OF THE FORMER EXHIBITION AREA, WITH THE ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE WINNING PROJECTS OF THE COMPETITION FOR THE NEW MASTER PLAN. THIS INITIATIVE IS INTENDED TO RENEW ONE OF THE CAPITAL’S HISTORIC SPACES, BY REPLACING OUTDATED STRUCTURES WITH NEW CONSTRUCTIONS THAT INTEGRATE SUSTAINABILITY AND FUNCTIONALITY
The history of the Ex Fiera di Roma and its redevelopment
L’Former Stock Exchange of Romein via Portuense, was designed by the architect Luigi Moretti, a leading exponent of Italian architectural modernism, and inaugurated in 1960. This building was for many years one of the most important exhibition centers of the capital, hosting important international events and events.
Its relevance stemmed not only from its large size and strategic location, but also from the modernity of its design, which reflected the innovation and economic growth of the time.
However, as the years passed, the Ex Fiera began to show signs of decline. Its increasing obsolescence has become apparent since the 2000s, a period when it began to lose its appeal in favor of new exhibition centers, such as the Nuova Fiera di Roma, located in the north of the city and designed by a team of architects led by by Paolo Desideri.
This change led to the closure of the original structure and the beginning of a long period of abandonment. The lack of maintenance and insufficient investment in renovation have contributed to the complex becoming a symbol of inefficiency and neglected urban spaces.
Mobilization against degradation
The deterioration of the Ex Fiera di Roma has raised serious concerns among residents and local authorities. The structure’s long-term abandonment has transformed the area into a symbol of decadence and neglect. The compromised structural conditions of the buildings have led to dangerous situations, with the risk of collapse and instability. In addition, the lack of maintenance has encouraged vandalism and other illegal activities, further increasing deterioration and endangering passersby and residents.
To address the challenges associated with the decline of the Ex Fiera di Roma, local authorities have launched a major redevelopment initiative. In February 2024, a competition was launched for the design of a new Master Plan, the result of an agreement between Roma Capitale and the Orchidea Srl Fund, signed in September 2023.
The aim of the competition is to transform the former exhibition center into a modern and sustainable urban space. The winning project involves the creation of a multifunctional district, called “ATO-R ex Fiera”, which will integrate housing, commercial spaces and cultural areas. This development aims not only to revitalize the area, but also to improve the quality of life and harmoniously integrate the former Fair with the surrounding urban context.
But let’s get to the winner.
The winning project for the redevelopment of the Ex Fiera di Roma: “The City of Joy”
The competition for the redevelopment of the Ex Fiera di Roma has selected the project “The city of joy”developed by a team of experts consisting of Acpv Architects, Arup, Asset and P’Arcnouveau. One of the distinguishing features of the proposal is the allocation of 50% of the surface area to green spaces and services.
This approach not only contributes to environmental sustainability, but also promotes harmonious integration with the surrounding urban fabric. The green areas are designed as a ‘green lung’ for the neighborhood, improving air quality and soil permeability.
The plan includes the construction of two main squares: Piazza del Sole and Piazza degli Eventi. The first will be dedicated to public functions, while the second will house commercial and cultural spaces. Furthermore, the project includes the construction of community wellness facilities, including gyms, multi-purpose playgrounds and event spaces. These amenities are designed to promote an active lifestyle and promote interaction between residents.
It is useful to point out that the residential sector will be designed to integrate with the surrounding “garden city”, while the commercial area will be enriched with new services that will respond to the needs of the community.
In addition to the winning project, other projects that deserved attention were also presented.
Urban diagonals by Nemesi Architects
“Urban Diagonals”, conceived by the studio Nemesi Architects, explores an innovative approach to urban planning through the strategic use of diagonal paths that connect different parts of the new exhibition area and facilitate mobility. This proposal aims to optimize the connections and interaction between the different urban elements, creating an integrated network of public spaces, green areas and housing.
“Urban Sap” by architect Andrea D’Antrassi
The “Linfa Urbana” project, conceived by architect Andrea D’Antrassi, places a strong emphasis on the environment and the well-being of the community. The proposal includes the construction of a nursery school, pedestrian and cycle paths and communal areas designed to meet the daily needs of residents.
The main objective of this plan is to revitalize the neighborhood through a capillary network of functions and environments that promote social interaction and environmental sustainability.
Project by architect Giorgio Maria Tamburini
The plan developed by architect Giorgio Maria Tamburini proposes an integrated architecture that harmonizes public spaces, green areas and residential areas in one coherent vision. The design aims to optimize energy efficiency and ensure high microclimatic comfort, aiming to create an urban environment that not only reduces environmental impact but also improves the quality of life of residents.
Mario Cucinella Architects
Finally, Mario Cucinella Architects’ plan focuses on creating an environment that synergistically combines natural and social elements. The proposal includes the creation of large green areas and public spaces designed to encourage socialization and improve the psychophysical well-being of the community, with a particular focus on children and adolescents.
The central idea is to integrate human needs with ecological sustainability criteria, creating a context in which the natural environment and social needs are in perfect harmony. This holistic approach not only meets the daily needs of residents, but also helps form a cohesive and dynamic community, supported by design that promotes a healthy and interactive lifestyle.
Next steps
The redevelopment works of the Ex Fiera di Roma will start in the first quarter of 2025, with the first phase dedicated to the demolition and preparation of the site. The detailed design and planning, already established during the competition and subsequent approvals, will be followed by the construction phase, which will begin immediately afterwards.
The completion of the entire project is scheduled for mid-2029. This period includes not only the construction of the new buildings and public spaces, but also the implementation of green infrastructure and services that should make the new district functional and liveable.