The regeneration of a historic building for contemporary hospitality

In the heart of Milan’s 5 Vie district, the regeneration of a historic building of approximately 2,500 sqm has given rise to Residenza del Cardinale, a hospitality destination within The Meliá Collection, featuring 28 rooms and suites, including 3 Penthouses with private terraces.

Developed by Studio Simonetti in collaboration with Progetto CMR, the project transforms a building previously used for private residences and commercial activities into a contemporary hospitality destination, preserving its architectural identity while meeting new requirements for comfort, accessibility, safety and efficiency.

Progetto CMR was responsible for the integrated design and construction management, coordinating architecture, structures, building systems, sustainability and new technologies, in collaboration with InFire for fire safety engineering. This multidisciplinary approach made it possible to address the entire five-storey complex, harmonising building elements dating from different periods and redefining the internal layout and vertical connections.

Particular attention was devoted to the internal courtyard, a distinctive feature of Milanese historic architecture. The removal of later additions made it possible to recover its original configuration and restore the courtyard to a central role within the project: a secluded, green space designed for interaction and relaxation, incorporating a lounge and the outdoor area of the gourmet restaurant.

The intervention also involved the common areas, reception, lobby, services, roofs and façades. These were subject to careful conservation works complemented by discreet contemporary additions designed to respect and enhance the historic context.

Sustainability was conceived as an integral part of the regeneration strategy. The insulation of the building envelope, the replacement of windows with high-performance systems, façade improvements and the renewal of the HVAC systems, including the use of geothermal energy, have improved the building’s energy performance while preserving its original architectural features.

The project has upgraded the building from energy class C to A3, achieving an approximately 50% reduction in energy demand, and was developed with the aim of obtaining LEED Gold certification under the Hospitality protocol.

Residenza del Cardinale is therefore an example of heritage regeneration in which architectural conservation, integrated design, technological innovation and energy efficiency converge to adapt a historic building to the requirements of contemporary hospitality while preserving its identity and urban value.