The long-abandoned Ex Cinema Corso in Vicenza is moving toward a major transformation into a contemporary arts and culture center after the city’s municipal administration advanced the project. The municipal executive board approved a request from the Fondazione Giuseppe Roi for a building permit in derogation for the property located at Corso Fogazzaro 31. The building, which has sat unused for approximately 30 years, is slated to house exhibition spaces, performance areas, administrative offices, and artist residences. The proposal now requires final approval from the city council.
Project aligns with city masterplan goals
Urban planning councillor Cristina Balbi stated that the project aligns directly with the city’s masterplan goals to reuse existing building stock and limit land consumption. Balbi pointed out that the former cinema sits in a strategic cultural quadrant of the historic center near the library, the future Bertoliana library, and the university. The municipal decision officially recognizes the public interest of the intervention, linking it directly to urban regeneration and the expansion of cultural offerings. Before reaching this legislative stage, the project secured clearance from the Superintendence, a compliance opinion from the Fire Department, and a favorable evaluation from the local health authority (Ulss).
Building volume decreases as usable floor surface increases
The redevelopment plan involves gutting the existing structure and constructing a large central courtyard, alongside new multi-level floor plates and an accessible rooftop terrace. The overall volume of the building will actually decrease from 7,810.70 cubic meters down to 7,658.70 cubic meters, marking a reduction of roughly 152 cubic meters. Meanwhile, the usable floor surface will increase from 1,475 square meters to 1,546.50 square meters. The property encompasses the former Cantinota in the basement and an attic once used by the Chamber of Commerce.
Fondazione Roi creates cultural hub and upgrades square
Fondazione Roi president Francesca Lazzari stated that the initiative aims to transform a site of abandonment into a dynamic hub for cultural production, training, and experimentation rather than a static exhibition space. The center will support young artists, creators, schools, and institutions while providing temporary living quarters for individuals connected to the foundation’s programs. As part of the project commitments, the foundation will finance both the design and execution of upgrades for the adjacent Piazzetta del Garofolino. This exterior square will feature reworked urban furnishings and lighting to serve as the main entryway for the new cultural center.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Ex Cinema Corso Project
What is the next step for the Ex Cinema Corso project?
The municipal council must vote to approve the building permit in derogation, grant a complete exemption from construction contributions, and sign off on the urban planning agreement governing the public interest aspects of the intervention.
Who owns the property and what did it cost to acquire?
The Fondazione Giuseppe Roi has owned the building since 2014.
How will the surrounding public space change?
The Fondazione Roi has committed to funding the redesign of Piazzetta del Garofolino, updating its lighting and urban furnishings so that it functions directly as the primary entrance for the new cultural venue.
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