The redevelopment of the Palasport of Genova, along with the creation of a large public park and the canals of the Waterfront di Levante, marks a turning point for the city, reconnecting it to its coastal district and transforming the area into a new center of attraction for residents and visitors.
Located at the entrance of the Waterfront, the Palasport will serve as an iconic gateway, providing public and accessible spaces integrated into the new urban setting. The project is based on two key principles: preserving and enhancing the original architectural features while reimagining interior spaces for new contemporary functions.
A Functional and Innovative Architectural Design
Originally built in 1962 by engineer Leo Finzi, the Palasport is being redesigned to host two primary functions:
- Sports Arena, developed in collaboration with CONI, to accommodate sports events, training sessions, and national and international competitions.
- Themed Commercial District, a vibrant area with retail spaces, dining, and entertainment, becoming a focal point for the Foce district.
The redevelopment includes a peripheral ring structure, expanding the building's radius by 12 meters, allowing for a completely open central space with a circular commercial promenade on the outer perimeter.
A New Multi-Purpose Sports Arena
At the heart of the building, beneath the large existing skylight, the new Sports Arena will accommodate:
- Up to 4,000 spectators, expandable to 5,000 for major events.
- Training and competitions for multiple sports (volleyball, basketball, martial arts, gymnastics, futsal, handball, fencing).
- Concerts, exhibitions, and large-scale events, thanks to modular seating configurations and adaptable spaces.
The arena will feature retractable seating to adjust the layout based on the event, optimizing the playing area and maximizing spectator capacity.
A New Landmark for the City
Beneath the 48 radial reinforced concrete beams of the existing structure, a commercial and dining area will be developed, featuring circular promenades, panoramic terraces, and leisure spaces. This new hub will become a community gathering space, aligned with the Waterfront di Levante Masterplan.
Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
The new Palasport is designed as a low-impact, sustainable facility, featuring:
- 2,800 sqm of photovoltaic panels on the roof for energy self-sufficiency.
- Seawater heat exchangers, for heating and cooling the building.
- Sustainable materials and transparent facades, to maximize natural light and integrate seamlessly with the surroundings.
A Modern and Iconic Architectural Identity
The facade design respects the original concept, incorporating:
- A transparent ground floor, with large glass surfaces providing an open and inviting interaction with the surrounding park.
- A metal-clad first floor, supported by 288 steel blades, reinforcing the structure’s aesthetics while preserving its historic image.
- Public balconies, ensuring a visual connection between the interior and exterior, enhancing accessibility and spatial fluidity.
Versatility and Innovation in Sports
The new Palasport will be a reference point for sports in Genova, offering:
- Flexible spaces for high-level competitions and events.
- FIP GOLD-certified facilities, suitable for hosting Serie A basketball games.
- Optimized acoustics with 1,800 sqm of sound-absorbing panels, also usable for 360° immersive projections.
Designed as a multi-purpose sports facility, the Palasport will cater to the needs of athletes, sports clubs, and spectators, becoming a hub for sports, entertainment, and community engagement that enhances the city of Genova.
INVESTOR AND DEVELOPER:
CDS Holding S.p.A.
- CEO & Partner: Enzo Danesi
- COO & Partner: Enrico Biffi
- General Director: Massimo Moretti
Orion Capital Managers
- Managing Director Italy & Partner: Corrado Trabacchi
TEAM:
- General Contractor: CDS Costruzioni S.p.A.
- Architectural Design – Themed Commercial District: Starching
- Architectural Design – Sports Arena: RPBW Renzo Piano Building Workshop & Vespier Architects
- Architectural Design – Facades and Outdoor Areas: RPBW Renzo Piano Building Workshop & OBR
- Landscape Design Consulting: AG&P Greenscape
- Project Monitoring: Europtima, Archire
- Project Management: Starching
- Structural Engineering: Struttura Continua
- MEP Design: Manens (Sports Arena) & Studio Zenucchi (Themed Commercial District)
- Acoustic Design: Manens & HMBA (Sports Arena) & Canepa (Themed Commercial District)
- Theater Design – Arena: HMBA
- Fire Safety Design: Studio Tecnico Zaccarelli
- Traffic and Mobility Planning: TRM Group
