Stefano Boeri Architetti is perhaps best known for his series of overgrown buildings (some rightly call them Vertical Forests) that have sprung up all over the world. I've often talked about it on this site and I personally have a genuine adoration for all the magnificent work of that group.
Today the Italian study has decided to join the fight against the COVID-19 virus right here in its home country by designing a “primula,” a flower-inspired solar-powered building that will be used to administer Covid-19 vaccinations in Italy. A project that immediately did not fail to raise a small debate, even a critical one, on the choices made. (Actually, as an insider I have recorded for now only of a graphic nature, on which I personally do not object. To me, clear and round, Boeri's primrose likes).
The project was commissioned by the Italian special commissioner for the COVID-19 emergency, Domenico Arcuri, and is carried out in collaboration with Anchora, Mario Piazza and the Milan Polytechnic. It will involve the installation of the temporary buildings in all Italian towns and cities, along with a campaign to inform the public about vaccines and encourage them to get vaccinated.
The project of a biodegradable “primrose”.
The buildings that will constitute the temporary vaccination centers will feature a simple prefabricated wooden base and structure. A bit like a sort of yurt. The exterior, textile, will be made with water-resistant, recyclable and biodegradable materials. They will be light and easy to dismantle or move when necessary, to bring the Covid vaccination centers to other parts of Italy.
From top to bottom, the initial project of the primrose includes the presence of photovoltaic panels to obtain all the energy required, and a system that will be placed at the center of this "flower". The rooms, arranged in a circle, will also be divided by textile separations into the different areas of the "mini clinics" where the Covid-19 vaccination will take place. The interiors will be divided into bathrooms, vaccine administration areas, vaccine storage, changing rooms and so on.
The entire structure of the primrose will be able to "breathe", guaranteeing large spaces and good ventilation to welcome people in total safety.
The general design of the project for Covid vaccinations in Italy is inspired, as said, by a flower, the primrose. And so is the claim that will be placed on the facade: "Italy is reborn with a flower". The inspiration, says Stefano Boeri, comes from a famous song by Sergio Endrigo, "it takes a flower".
