Casance is an architectural design competition held in Italy with the objective of transforming an existing building into a modern, functional, and representative space. The competition stands out for its focus on young architects and its emphasis on adaptive reuse, functionality, and environmental integration.
This article provides a comprehensive explanation of Casance, covering its purpose, participants, design approach, winning project, and overall significance in the field of architecture.
What is Casance?
Casance is a design competition aimed at reimagining and renovating an existing structure. Rather than constructing a new building, participants were required to propose innovative ways to reuse and improve an already built environment.
The project was commissioned by ANCE (Associazione Nazionale Costruttori Edili), the Italian National Association of Building Contractors. The renovated structure is intended to function as:
- A guesthouse
- An institutional residence
- A venue for meetings and official events
This makes Casance not just an architectural exercise, but also a practical project with real-world use.
Objectives of the Casance Competition
The Casance competition was designed with several key objectives:
1. Adaptive Reuse of Existing Buildings
Instead of demolishing and rebuilding, the competition focused on:
- Preserving the existing structure
- Enhancing its usability
- Reducing environmental impact
2. Functional Space Planning
Participants were required to create designs that are:
- Efficient
- Practical
- Suitable for both private and public use
3. Architectural Innovation
The competition encouraged:
- Creative problem-solving
- Modern design approaches
- Integration of architecture with surroundings
4. Promotion of Young Talent
A defining feature of Casance is that participation was limited to architects under the age of 35. This ensured:
- Opportunities for emerging professionals
- Fresh perspectives in design
Participants and Eligibility
The competition was open exclusively to:
- Young architects and design teams
- Individuals under 35 years of age
This restriction played a significant role in shaping the outcome, as it brought forward innovative ideas driven by contemporary thinking and experimentation.
The Winning Project: Casa della Materia
The winning proposal of the Casance competition was submitted by Paros Architettura and titled “Casa della Materia” (House of Matter).
Reasons for Selection
The jury selected this project based on several criteria:
- Strong functional organization
- Clear spatial hierarchy
- Effective integration with the surrounding landscape
- Balanced relationship between interior and exterior spaces
Design Concept and Spatial Organization
One of the most important aspects of the winning Casance project is its logical division of space. The building is organized into three primary zones:
1. Public Area
This section is designed for:
- Meetings
- Events
- Institutional gatherings
It is open, accessible, and suitable for hosting visitors.
2. Semi-Public (Service) Area
This area includes:
- Support functions
- Operational spaces
It acts as a transition between public and private zones.
3. Private Area
Reserved for:
- Accommodation
- Personal use
This ensures privacy and comfort for residents and guests.
This structured zoning approach allows the building to serve multiple functions efficiently without overlap or conflict.
Integration with the Environment
A key feature of the Casance winning design is its connection with the surrounding environment.
Landscape Integration
- The design incorporates panoramic terraces
- Outdoor and indoor spaces are visually and functionally connected
- The building responds to its natural and urban context
Architectural Harmony
The project avoids imposing on the environment and instead:
- Blends with its surroundings
- Enhances the overall spatial experience
Other Recognized Projects
In addition to the winning proposal, several other projects received special mentions for their innovative approaches:
- Palimpsestus
- Uno spazio flessibile (A Flexible Space)
- Ibridare e integrare (Hybridize and Integrate)
These projects explored concepts such as:
- Flexibility in spatial design
- Layered architectural interventions
- Integration of multiple functions within a single structure
Features of Casance Designs
Across all submissions, several common architectural themes emerged:
- Efficient use of existing structures
- Clear separation of functional zones
- Emphasis on flexibility and adaptability
- Strong relationship between built and natural environments
- Contemporary design language
Facts and Figures
- Location: Italy
- Organizer: ANCE (Italian National Association of Building Contractors)
- Type: Architectural design competition
- Eligibility: Architects under 35 years
- Primary Objective: Renovation and adaptive reuse
- Winning Firm: Paros Architettura
- Winning Project: Casa della Materia
Importance of Casance in Architecture
1. Encouraging Sustainable Practices
By focusing on renovation instead of new construction, Casance promotes:
- Resource efficiency
- Reduced environmental impact
- Sustainable development
2. Supporting Emerging Architects
The competition provides:
- Visibility to young professionals
- Opportunities for career advancement
- A platform for innovation
3. Advancing Functional Design
The emphasis on usability ensures that:
- Designs are not only visually appealing
- But also practical and user-centered
4. Bridging Theory and Practice
Unlike conceptual competitions, Casance involves:
- Real-world application
- Practical constraints
- Functional outcomes
Simplified Explanation for Beginners
To understand Casance in simple terms, consider the following example:
An old building needs to be transformed into a modern space where people can stay, meet, and work. Instead of tearing it down, architects are asked to redesign it in a smart and efficient way. Young architects compete to present the best idea, and the most practical and creative design wins.
This is essentially what the Casance competition represents.
Conclusion
Casance is a significant architectural competition that highlights the importance of adaptive reuse, functional planning, and the role of young architects in shaping the future of the built environment.
The winning project, Casa della Materia, demonstrates how thoughtful design can transform an existing structure into a versatile and meaningful space. Through its focus on innovation, sustainability, and practicality, Casance serves as an important model for contemporary architectural practice.
