A new civic center designed by Archiplanstudio has been completed in Carpi, Italy, marking a significant addition to the town's urban landscape. The 600-square-meter cultural architecture project, photographed by Simone Bossi, represents a contemporary approach to civic building design that harmonizes with the existing urban fabric while establishing new spatial relationships within the community.
The building is strategically positioned on the edge of the consolidated urban fabric of Carpi d'Adige, creating a dialogue between the established town center and newer developments. This location allows the structure to serve as both a gateway and a focal point for community activities. The architects chose this site to maximize the building's impact on the surrounding urban environment while respecting the historical context of the area.
The two-story building demonstrates careful consideration of its relationship to existing infrastructure and landmarks. Along its longitudinal axis, the structure redefines the road axis that leads to the local church, creating a new visual corridor that enhances the connection between civic and religious spaces. On the shorter side, the building presents itself as the entrance front to the town, establishing a welcoming presence for visitors and residents approaching from this direction.
Across from the main structure, a lower building has been positioned with a deliberate setback that helps define the public space. This architectural decision creates a more open and accessible environment for community gatherings and events. The design is further enhanced by the presence of a small garden, which adds a natural element to the civic complex and provides a transitional space between the built environment and green areas.
The facade treatment represents a thoughtful interpretation of classic urban architectural themes. The design team employed a progressive process of rarefaction in the facade development, creating visual interest while maintaining coherence with the surrounding built environment. This approach allows the building to stand out as a modern civic landmark while remaining respectful of traditional architectural language found in the historic town center.
Constructed primarily using glass and concrete materials, the building reflects contemporary architectural practices while ensuring durability and functionality appropriate for a civic facility. The material choices support the building's role as a public space that must accommodate various community activities and withstand heavy use over time. The completion of this project in 2025 adds a valuable cultural architecture resource to the community of Carpi.
