Library Interior

This project entailed the conversion of the Library and Historical Archives of the Sicilian Parliament, located in the monumental complex of S. Elena and Constantino. The problem faced, and skilfully resolved by Italo Rota, is one that has plagued Italian architects for centuries: how to intervene in an architecturally and artistically important context, without being marginalized and, at the same time, without running the risk of permanently ruining the site by introducing irreversible contemporary elements. Rota's solution consists of the creation of space through the addition of sculptural elements. The result is an enchanted garden where new and old come together, confronting one another, while retaining their autonomy. Curved and square forms, multi-coloured elements and opaque and reflective finishes. Architecture -Rota suggests- must free itself of its Modernist and functionalist inhibitions, losing in efficiency what it gains in ludic terms, sensorial interest and fantasy.