Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) wraps for structural reinforcement: the former Colonie Padane in Cremona

Carbon fiber wraps were used for the structural consolidation of the architectural complex as part of a significant redevelopment project.

An excellent example of fascist architecture, the former Colonie Padane in Cremona, recently underwent structural reinforcement works as part of a larger redevelopment project that returned them to the local community after years of neglect.

The structure is a reinforced concrete building in the shape of a semicircular crown with a towering central tower. In plan view, it resembles a semi-circular crown with a length of 115 meters, consisting of a point-supported frame composed of beams and columns supported by both isolated and continuous foundations, arranged radially. A second structure is located at the center of the circular crown and is characterized by a system of dual stair ramps that also repeat at the head of the circular crown.

Constructed in 1936 in an area a few meters from the Po River, they were a heliotherapy colony built at the behest of Roberto Farinacci, the former secretary of the fascist party. They were designed by engineer Carlo Gaudenzi and covered an area of nearly 40,000 square meters, resembling a large ship surrounded by a park with small pools and lakes.

The architectural complex, consisting of two above-ground floors that housed changing rooms, facilities, showers, pantry, kitchens, and a large dining hall, was abandoned after the fall of fascism and was sporadically and partially used in an ineffective manner, eventually being forgotten.