“Bright Minds": a behind-the-scenes look at a research center

The monograph Bright Minds. Shaping Spaces for Research, edited by THE PLAN Editions, is devoted to the project of the Busselli Scherer studio, led by Roberto Busselli and Michael Scherer, for the D2 building within the NOI Techpark, South Tyrol's innovation district in Bolzano, Italy. The building houses research laboratories, offices and a university canteen under one roof. In compliance with the guidelines set by the area's masterplan, the building stands out for its design based on the concepts of dynamism, natural light and quality of interior spaces.

Available in Italian with English opposite or in Italian with German opposite, the volume retraces the history of the project, starting from the principles that inspired it and leading up to the technological solutions and design choices that shaped the interiors. It presents a narrative through texts and firsthand accounts, photography, general and detailed drawings, accompanied by the critical commentary of Professor Pierre-Alain Croset from the Politecnico di Milano.

With great intellectual honesty, this book offers insights into the “how” and “why” behind the design choices. The emphasis is in particular on the method and design philosophy adopted by the Busselli Scherer studio, rooted in a commitment to listening and combining the many disciplinary skills essential to successfully navigating the design of a particularly complex building. A “behind-the-scenes look” would be an apt subtitle for the book: the process of architects, structural engineers, mechanical engineers, industrial firms for the facades, furniture suppliers, and lighting systems all working together in synergy is all too seldom discussed in architectural publications, often staying concealed from the general public.

 

Excerpt from the critical commentary by Pierre-Alain Croset, Professor at the Politecnico di Milano