Punta Bianca

Visitor Center – LIGHTHOUSE PUNTA

The project involves the renovation of a historic Custom House and the addition of a new pavilion. It integrates with existing hiking paths and respects sunbathing and relaxation zones along the coast. The historic structure has been given a new cultural function, serving as a center for education, exhibitions, and public engagement.

The design draws inspiration from the site’s history. Once used by the Guardia di Finanza to prevent smuggling, the original building’s protective role influenced both the concept and symbolic form of the new design. A modern extension was added, shaped with a double-sloped roof that brings in natural light from the east and west. The flatter ridge at the top includes a ventilation grille that promotes natural airflow. The overall form resembles an arrow—symbolizing vigilance and echoing the site’s past as a coastal watchpoint.

Spatial organization follows existing visitor movement paths, enhancing accessibility and flow. A new pathway connects the buildings with the coastline, improving orientation while supporting a variety of visitor activities.

The historic building and the new pavilion are visually and functionally linked, creating a dialogue between old and new. The pavilion’s position along the descending path from the hill makes it an intuitive stop for visitors before they continue toward the coast. It provides space to rest, gather information, or participate in cultural activities.

The renovation aimed to minimize intervention, preserving the original walls and only adding where necessary. One exception was the creation of a new passage from the reception area to the refreshment zone. This allowed for a direct opening to the outside, enabling locals and tourists to access the refreshment area without entering through the main entrance.

Punta Bianca’s significance as a coastal landmark is reflected in the visitor center’s symbolic identity as a lighthouse. With no nearby light sources, the structure becomes a beacon at night, thanks to its glass roof, which emits interior light outward and makes it visible from both land and sea.

On the ground floor, a hall with a reception, info point, and shop welcomes visitors. From there, one can access the lockers room or the refreshment area. Restrooms—accessible to all—are located along the central corridor.

The second floor contains a small library and a laboratory for educational use, linked by a connecting corridor.

The third floor, with a mezzanine, is dedicated to exhibitions and offers panoramic sea views.

Designed with seasonal flexibility in mind, rooms can be opened or closed independently—especially the refreshment room, which has both internal and external entrances.