Schindler Italia: A Sustainable Hub Designed for People’s Wellbeing

The masterplan for the redevelopment of Schindler Group’s historic Italian headquarters in Concorezzo, in the province of Monza and Brianza in Italy, is signed by GBPA Architects. This project stands as an innovative example of how architecture and sustainability can merge to create cutting-edge workplaces centered on people’s wellbeing, aiming to transform traditional office spaces into a truly sustainable hub.

Schindler Italia: Spacious, Bright Environments

The masterplan covers a 22,580 m² area, with over 11,000 m² of existing buildings reorganized and enhanced. The project involves the renovation of two main buildings—dedicated to executive offices and shared functions—plus a newly built central volume that connects the two wings.

The design is characterized by a transparent and light architectural language, featuring large glazed surfaces that allow natural light to flood the interiors and create a visual dialogue with the surrounding landscape. At the heart of the complex is a multifunctional plaza, accessible from all buildings and connected by an internal glass walkway. This area serves as the vibrant core of the campus, hosting functions such as an auditorium, cafeteria, and restaurant, and encouraging informal interactions among employees and collaborators.

The project also addresses both the physical and mental wellbeing of individuals, with spaces dedicated to fitness and relaxation, including a corporate gym and a renovated Training Center—Schindler’s long-standing technical education facility.

A High-Efficiency, Sustainable Building

The offices are distributed across multiple levels, each featuring green terraces designed as areas for breaks and socialization, fostering a flexible and collaborative work environment. The architectural choices prioritize natural light, acoustic and thermal comfort, resulting in healthy, dynamic, and attractive spaces.

Special attention has been given to the elevator test tower—a symbolic element of Concorezzo’s industrial identity. The renovation enhances this structure without altering its load-bearing framework, updating the window fixtures, lighting design, and finishes in harmony with the new architectural language.

The building systems use high-efficiency geothermal technologies, photovoltaic panels, and automated systems to monitor energy consumption. Radiant ceiling panels provide uniform thermal comfort, reducing emissions and improving indoor air quality. These measures will enable the building to achieve LEED GOLD certification, an international benchmark of environmental sustainability excellence.

>>> Discover also the new L'Oréal headquarters, designed by Progetto CMR, with interiors by Lombardini22

Rendering courtesy of GBPA Architects