Urban Atelier: sustainable design for multi-functional residences and collective spaces in Bologna’s cultural heritage context

Historic city centres face the challenge of containing contemporary urban needs while preserving their cultural identity and architectural heritage. This thesis proposes to regenerate an underutilized and decaying urban site on Via Boldrini in Bologna, Italy, converting it into 'Urban Atelier,' a sustainable, mixed-use development that provides a multifunctional environment for artists, residents, and the local community. To prevent an isolated development, the central passage act as fully open public spaces, actively inviting citizens and students into the site. The project integrates artist and student residences, creative workspaces, cultural facilities, public amenities, and wellness spaces within a single architectural framework that encourages collaboration, social interaction, and urban vitality. The project is based on a research-based approach with historical, urban, environmental, and socio-cultural analyses, supported by selected architectural case studies to inform the design process. The proposal applies passive environmental strategies, including natural daylight optimization, cross-ventilation, green terraces, landscaped courtyards, and climate-responsive building form, to improve energy performance and user comfort while respecting Bologna's historic urban fabric. The resulting design demonstrates how sustainable architecture can support urban regeneration by reconnecting fragmented public spaces, strengthening creative communities, and enhancing the relationship between heritage and contemporary living.