NOI Techpark

The 25,000m² NOI (Nature of Innovation) Techpark in Bolzano, involved the refurbishment of two listed buildings and the construction of a new building, the “Black Monolith”, which creates an architectural bridge between the existing rationalist-style former aluminium factory structures.
The brief was to create an innovative technology park, NOI Techpark houses a wide range of R&D and innovation companies, university research institutions and training centres as an economic development engine for the South Tyrol region.

NOI Techpark is located in the former Alumix factory, built in 1937, once the largest aluminium factory in Italy. The factory buildings were entirely restored, bringing them back to their original architectural quality in a sensitive way using materials which were used in the past. We did this to a very high standard, honouring the site’s history. In the interiors, the new structures can be clearly recognize in the use of materials -such as glass and wood – these new office boxes are inserted in weave of beam and pillars. These suspended volumes create areas to relax, rest and meet.

The Black Monolith is designed to represent continuity with the past, both for functional characteristics as a workplace and for the materials. The façade is designed and made of aluminium foam, as a nod to the aluminium production of the former factory.
The façades of the Black Monolith have deep surface cuts for control of direct solar irradiation. The building envelope and mechanical and electrical equipment, included FV panels, are designed to achieve carbon neutrality.
NOI Techpark achieved LEED v4 Neighbourhood Development sustainability certification, first in Europe, second in the World.

Natural ventilation

Shading system

High efficient façade

Photovoltaics

Daylight sensors

Smart design (passive design strategies)

Zero energy building

Ground Source Heat Pump

Electrical charging point for cars

Sustainable transport