Material Testing Laboratory IUAV

The new material testing laboratory is located in Mestre, in an area provided by the municipality for the creation of a science centre for the Istituto Universitario di Architettura di Venezia. The building has been conceived as a shell lowered from above, to protect the virtually preexistant central nucleus that is composed of a 'structure of contrast': a grill of reinforced concrete baffle, pilasters extending down into the ground, and a 'bridge crane', supported by two rows of pilasters. The internal space is modulated by the natural light which enters from below, through a glazed perimeter opening, and from above, through a series of skylights.

Photograph by: Orch Orsenillo / Chemollo

Source: Mies Arch Prize: http://www.miesarch.com/