RECAP: October Italian Section Event in Florence
This one day event was packed with a diverse program, with attendees from all over Europe, starting at the Florence Institute of Design International (FIDI). FIDI was founded by AIA Europe, Italian section member Marc Di Dominico in 2008. Having begun as a small 'study abroad' program, FIDI has grown to a school offering both undergraduate and graduate programs in several areas of design with more than 150 students. It is housed on the Piano Nobile of two 18th Century, Category 0 (the highest) historic landmark structures, originally built as grand residences of important Florentine families.
Fresco Restoration
The first discussion of the day’s program was a fresco restoration presentation by fresco restoration expert, Sig. Daniella Dini. She showed us a technique of fresco recovery developed by her father following the Florence floods in 1966 and many examples from her own work on recovering and restoring frescos so badly damaged by floods or water penetration that they were seemingly irretrievable. To continue this theme, Arch. Marc Di Dominico discussed the process of uncovering (removing later overpainting or plaster overlay) and restoration of the frescos at FIDI and a tour of the facilities.
Surprises and Setbacks: Rome and Venice Stadium Projects
Next, a presentation by section member Arch. Steven Scamihorn whose firm, BEAR PM, serves as project manager on both projects. His presentation covered two large privately financed urban development projects. Steve explained the national context that led to the creation of a new 'streamlined' project approval process to encourage private financing of new sports stadium projects by allowing them to be integrated with larger development projects that provide additional income streams.
