Velasca tower: an italian-style structure unveiled in a new light through the BBPR archive

This paper expands on the study of the relationship between the construction and architecture of Torre Velasca in Milan, concerning the solutions adopted for the supporting structure. It evaluates records from the BBPR architects, presently kept at Rome’s MAXXI Museo Nazionale delle Arti del XXI secolo, loaned by the Belgiojoso family in 2022 and now accessible to researchers for the first time. The research delves into unpublished documents related to the project’s execution, particularly emphasizing the interactions between various participants involved in the building’s construction. This study scrutinizes BBPR’s drawings, project papers,meeting reports, and communicationwith the SGI - Società Generale Immobiliare technical office. The paper elucidates the key factors influencing structural decisions by comparing the new data with information from previous research. Furthermore, it sheds light on the underlying rationale behind the design choices implemented throughout the tower’s construction. It illustrates how the structural framework was strategically utilized to redefine its architectural identity, distinct from the conventional North American skyscraper model. Additionally, the study uncovered the unique contributions of individuals who played pivotal roles in shaping this globally acclaimed architectural masterpiece.