International law firm DLA Piper has moved its Rome headquarters to a renovated complex on Via Veneto, next to the Aurelian Walls and Villa Borghese. The building was designed by Alvisi Kirimoto studio, creating a modern workplace based on a flexible layout and high-quality materials. The architects emphasise that their aim was to design a space that simultaneously supports professional relationships and the individual needs of its users. After modernisation, the Roman townhouse fulfils this task one hundred per cent.
The Roman townhouse in a new version
The law firm’s new headquarters are located in a townhouse belonging to the Diamond Care Fund, managed by DeA Capital Real Estate SGR. The building complex dates back to the beginning of the 20th century and consists of two connected buildings that have undergone extensive modernisation – structural and functional. IPI S.p.A. was responsible for carrying out the work and one of the main objectives was to achieve LEED certification. The total area of the project is more than 4,000 sq m and has been spread over seven floors. Alvisi Kirimoto architects broke with the traditional office model, proposing an open and diverse space that prioritises the user experience.
Four functional zones
The project was divided into four main areas. In the basement, a community space was created with a catering area, a green garden with a central table, a library room, a screening room and relaxation areas. It is a place that combines work and social life and is conducive to informal meetings and regeneration. The ground floor has a representative function. Here there is a reception area illuminated by a large skylight and an impressive tabletop made of limestone and wenge wood, incorporated into a bonsai setting. Next to it sits the meeting and events lounge, which can play a variety of roles thanks to mobile design elements. This is complemented by a central bar, designed in the same style.
Floors one to four are occupied by operational areas. The offices are fitted with large glazing opening up the interiors to the corridors, and some space has been allocated to open-plan offices and dynamic shared spaces. There are also hybrid zones, telephone booths, meeting pods and openwork wooden structures concealing small breakout areas. The top floor has a representative and integrative role. It is a meeting and event space with meeting rooms, an executive boardroom and two panoramic terraces. The interiors blend seamlessly with the surroundings thanks to the individually designed finishes and the opening to the Roman skyline.
Human-centred architecture
The importance of natural materials, bespoke details and a sustainable approach is emphasised throughout the project. The new headquarters in Rome, alongside the existing Milan office, reinforces DLA Piper’s position in the Italian market. According to the project developers, the key idea was a hybrid architecture that does not restrict but invites interaction and flexible use of space.
Design: Alvisi Kirimoto – Massimo Alvisi, Junko Kirimoto
Photography: Serena Eller / Ellerstudio
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