Iulm, Milan (Italy)

Knowledge transfer centre

The expansion of this university campus presents itself as a complex architectural organism from which the unusual ellipse-shaped volume of the auditorium and its envelope entirely clad with bespoke three-dimensional ceramic tiles stand out. An unconventional application with a strong character where the diamond-shaped porcelain stoneware modules that cover the “cocoon” enliven the surface of the roof exploiting the light variations throughout the day to generate refined and changing compositional effects.

The envelope of the auditorium’s dome was covered with the 3D glazed porcelain stoneware tiles of the Diamante collection designed by 5+1AA Alfonso Femia Gianluca Peluffo.

These three-dimensional tiles feature an 8 mm thickness. Their diamond-inspired brightness and facets define changing surfaces drawn by reflections and chiaroscuro contrasts allowing them to be perceived always in a different way. The particular solution adopted for the finishes through an original geometric relief pattern provides a sense of movement. The ceramic material is emphasised by the metalescent glazing. Under the light, it creates multiple luminous reflections that brighten up the surface

of the building’s envelope. These tiles come in the 10x20 and 60x60 cm formats and three colours characterised by slight three-dimensional differences. They are the result of a sophisticated industrial procedure, which includes glazing and firing processes at 1250 °C, using selected mixtures of clays, quartzes and feldspars. Oxide

saturated metallic glazes provide the ceramic surface with a dynamic colour-changing effect.

All this is done meeting the highest technical and performance standards in terms of resistance, durability, frost-resistance, and quality, in compliance with UNI EN ISO 14411 standards.

The 9x9 cm tiles of the Diamante collection were used to cover the envelope of the auditorium’s dome and were applied using lightweight single-component cement-based adhesive.