Reuse the Nymphaeum, Genazzano

Competition, 2023, 1st Prize

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In his essay „Space; or, Bramante‘s Problem“ Pier Paolo Tamburelli argues that the main focus of Bramante‘s approach to creating architectural space was „the construction of void by means of order“; designing the absent by shaping the material around it. 

The remains of Bramante‘s Ninfeo in Genazzano have lost this expression by their current state of decay. Multiple approaches to reconstruct Bramante‘s original spatial idea of the Ninfeo have been published; current research going as far as claiming that this building has been conceived by the architect as the first artificial ruin in history of modern landscape design. 

Transforming the ruin of Bramante‘s Ninfeo into a place of cultural appropriation requires the creation of a structure that houses the necessary functions without damaging what is left of Bramante‘s spatial exploration. Therefore the proposed intervention tries to extend the spatial configuration of the ruin by a twin-like structure facing the existing building. 

The new structure is mimicking Bramante‘s original spatial order while reinterpreting the architectural matter that surrounds its void. 

Extending the competition boundary, the new ensemble will be accessed by the originally intended direction from the south or the north through a landscape park that allows a slow approach to the building. 

Both structures will be connected by a platform, which allows for a multitude of scenarios and that will provide a background for any cultural appropriation: the stage can be inside the ruin, while the spectators watch from a distance while the sun or the rain creates a natural filter between the spectator and the actor. 

In this scenario the distance between stage and spectator never exceeds 30m, providing optimal distance to view any show. Technical equipment such as lights or sound amplification will be integrated into the structure to allow for a comfortable experience. 

By extending the existing architecture, Bramante‘s spatial intention is being restored, creating a dialogue of two empty vessels that want to be filled with function and cultural meaning by Genazzano‘s inhabitants, its future visitors and actors. 

Bramante‘s problem is being presented yet again.