Renaissance: Breathing New Life into Urban Spaces

Giacinto Faba’s design reimagines a forgotten suburb with sustainable innovation.

The Renaissance project draws its creative vision from the simple yet profound image of a stone creating ripples in water. This metaphor shapes the new square, where concentric circles of trees and shrubs radiate from a central fountain, infusing the space with movement and vitality. The adjacent park’s design references Gothic patterns found in ancient maps, realized through intersecting pathways that foster connection and flow. These inspirations combine to create a dynamic environment that encourages both reflection and interaction.

Addressing the area’s history of neglect, the project aims to restore dignity to Pescara’s 1960s and 1970s housing landscape. The demolition of three dilapidated buildings makes way for a new square, while the existing park is revitalized as a green lung for the city. At the heart of the square, a fountain surrounded by native trees serves as a symbol of renewal, with seasonal changes enhancing the sense of place. This thoughtful integration of natural and built elements positions Renaissance as a model for urban regeneration.

Sustainability and innovation are central to the project’s realization. Pervious concrete, a material composed of cement, water, additives, and sand-free aggregates, is used for the square’s center and the park’s pathways. This eco-friendly choice facilitates rainwater drainage and helps reduce urban heat, addressing both environmental and practical concerns. The remaining square utilizes brushed concrete for durability. Advanced LED technology manages the lighting system, enabling remote control and dimming for energy efficiency.

Spanning nearly 10,000 square meters for the square and 5,700 square meters for the park, Renaissance is more than a physical transformation. The design encourages social interaction among residents and visitors, aided by the proximity to sports facilities and the strategic planting of new trees. This approach not only optimizes space but also strengthens community bonds, turning the area into a welcoming point of aggregation.

Historical research and local testimonies informed the project, though the primary inspiration remained the evocative metaphor of rippling water. The challenge lay in transforming a forgotten suburb into a place of renewed promise, where architecture and landscape design foster both social and environmental well-being. By integrating sustainable materials and innovative urban planning, Renaissance stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful design in shaping better futures.

Recognized with the Iron A' Design Award in 2025, Renaissance exemplifies practical innovation and industry best practices. Giacinto Faba’s vision demonstrates how artful inspiration, technical expertise, and a commitment to sustainability can converge to create spaces that uplift communities and set new standards in urban regeneration.