Over the course of approximately 20 years, the firm RICERCA E PROGETTO - Galassi, Mingozzi e Associati has carried out the design and construction supervision of a systematic series of structural consolidation works on the building of the Salesian Institute of the Blessed Virgin of San Luca: a “building complex” composed of various structural units (some of which are subject to preservation restrictions by the Superintendency) built in different periods, ranging from the late 19th century to the 1980s.
The first phase of work, carried out in 2002–2003, involved the consolidation of the floor slabs in the northern part of the building. Over the decades, the northwest portion of the building complex has experienced some minor differential settlement, which has become more significant since 2007, due to changes in the volume of the clay layers caused by drying, partly resulting from climatic variations that have led to prolonged periods of drought. Since 2008, a monitoring system has been in place to assess the progression of differential settlement over time, leading in 2014 to a major foundation consolidation project involving deep foundations, micropiles and mega piles, and stiffening structures made of steel framing and reinforced concrete, to transfer vertical loads to the deeper soil layers, which are not affected by seasonal variations in water content. These works involved the temporary modification and subsequent restoration of the fire protection, water supply, and mechanical systems. In 2012, a safety assessment of the entire complex was conducted, and the vaults on the first floor of the northwest section—which had been damaged due to differential settlement—were reinforced. From 2017 to 2021, structural interventions were designed and supervised for the consolidation of the southwest portion of the building; specifically, the floors of the mezzanine and first floors were reinforced, and new classrooms were constructed in the basement.

Client: Salesian Institute of the Blessed Virgin of San Luca

Years: 2008-2018