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New Square on Lago Maggiore

Landscape

Competition

Laveno, Italy

2022

Piazza Matteotti is strategically located in Laveno, facing southwest toward the lake and bordered on three sides by buildings in the historic center. The current use of the square as a mere parking lot is a clear waste of its potential attractiveness and social value.

Given this premise, the project envisions a revitalization of the square by transforming the existing parking area into a true public plaza. This new space will foster social gathering, bring in commercial potential, and enhance its tourist appeal.

The plaza's surface will be aligned with the current level of Via Labiena, which runs along the northeastern edge. As a result, the square will be elevated approximately 60 cm above the level of the provincial road, creating a distinct space protected from traffic and enhancing the lake view. The elevation difference between Piazza Matteotti and the provincial road will be smoothly bridged by four steps with a tread depth of 30 cm. For ease of access, especially for those with limited mobility, two ramps, each 210 cm wide and with a 3.6% incline, are placed along the shorter sides.

The surface of both the square and Via Labiena is planned to be paved with local gray granite cobblestones (“sampietrini”), ensuring continuity with the traditional materials of Laveno’s historic center.

A row of nine trees along the southwestern edge will not only provide a decorative border for the square but also serve two key functions: offering shade to cool the area during summer months and screening out noise from the provincial road.

The redesigned square is highly versatile and, beyond daily activities, could host temporary events such as small performances, Christmas markets, or art exhibitions. The proximity to Piazza Caduti del Lavoro also creates a synergy that could boost the success of traditional events and bring new opportunities in the future.

The project also includes pedestrianizing the square and Via Labiena, allowing access only for the loading and unloading of commercial vehicles and for residents, as well as providing access in the event of flooding that makes the provincial road impassable. This arrangement will give Via Labiena a prime position overlooking the lake, enhancing its visibility for tourism and creating new opportunities for businesses along the street.

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