Torre Arcobaleno: Milan's Beacon of Modern Design Illuminated Anew
In the vibrant Garibaldi area of Milan, the iconic Torre Arcobaleno stands resplendent, its presence even more compelling with the installation of a new night lighting system. This latest intervention, a collaboration between some of Italy's most esteemed companies, elevates the tower's status as a symbol of contemporary Milan—where history, architecture, and design converge to create a landmark of exceptional beauty and cultural significance.
The Torre Arcobaleno, originally built in 1964 as a Porta Garibaldi railway yard water tank, underwent a remarkable transformation in 1990. During Italy's hosting of the World Cup, what was once a weathered and deteriorated structure serving a utilitarian purpose was reborn as a vibrant city symbol. The renovation, which involved cladding the tower with 100,000 ceramic tiles in 14 distinct colours, turned it into a circular and colourful landmark. This restoration not only revitalized the tower but also signalled a new dedication to urban renewal and aesthetic innovation, inspiring a new era of architectural restoration.
In 2015, during the Expo Milano, the Torre Arcobaleno once again garnered global attention as it underwent further restoration. This restoration was entirely funded by the same group of companies involved in the tower's initial revitalization. It was intended as a gift to the people of Milan and was timed to coincide with a globally significant event. By then, the Garibaldi district had become the focal point of Milanese design, fashion, and modern architecture, with its futuristic skyscrapers and bustling Piazza Gae Aulenti. In this setting, the Torre Arcobaleno emerged as a "coloured ceramic totem," symbolizing the transformation of Italy's master ceramists from traditional artisans to innovative industrial creators, celebrated on the world stage.
Today, the Torre Arcobaleno enters a new phase, its outline coming to life at night with a modern LED lighting system. This cutting-edge installation, which includes 397 W LED floodlights, enhances the tower's colourful mosaic, creating a captivating glow that enchants both locals and visitors. The new lighting not only improves the tower's facade colours but also maintains energy efficiency like the previous system, ensuring that the tower's beauty is not only enhanced but also sustainable. The floodlights, with a lifespan of around 100,000 hours, promise to keep the tower's appeal alive for years to come.
The project, led by the architectural division of the Original Designers Studio 6R5 Network, which includes Francesco Roggero, Albino Pozzi, Rita Alfano Roggero, and Kiyoto Ishimoto, reflects a united effort to preserve and enhance the beauty of Torre Arcobaleno. This team of designers, acting as the project's "directors," has successfully integrated the expertise of several Made in Italy partners, all committed to showcasing the tower's nocturnal charm.
The list of partners includes top Italian companies such as Bazzea Construction Technology, responsible for the renovation work; Condor, providing formwork and scaffolding; Disano Illuminazione, in charge of the tower's new lighting; Fila Solutions, experts in surface cleaning; Marazzi Group, renowned tile manufacturers; and Mapei, who supplied the adhesives, renovation materials, and paint. This initiative is also supported by the Comune di Milano and RFI, the primary company of the Infrastructure Cluster of the Italian FS Group.
The Torre Arcobaleno, now shining brightly with its new lighting, stands as a powerful symbol of pride and creativity in Milan. Its vivid colours and impressive silhouette now stand out even more, solidifying its status as a beloved landmark and a must-see attraction for design enthusiasts worldwide. Each illuminated night, the tower conveys a tale of innovation, heritage, and Milan's enduring spirit—a city where the past and future coexist in the language of design, inviting all to be part of its rich history and promising future.
The project partners are:
Bazzea Construction Technology (renovation work)
Condor - Formwork, Scaffolding (metal multidirectional scaffolding)
Disano Illuminazione (lighting)
Fila Solutions (surface cleaning)
Marazzi Group (tiles)
Mapei (adhesives, renovation and painting)
Comune di Milano - Milan City Council and RFI-the leading company of the Infrastructure Cluster of the Italian FS Group – Gruppo Ferrovie dello Stato - have also patronized this new initiative, in continuity with the choice made at the beginning of the history of the recovery project.
For more information: www.torrearcobaleno.it
Bazzea
Condor – Formwork, Scaffolding
Disano Illuminazione
Fila Solutions
Marazzi Group
Mapei