Out of use since 2001, the factory area has undergone extensive work in order to become an inclusive and sustainable neighbourhood, with plans to further its complete regeneration by 2026. Having been transformed into a hub for contemporary culture, art and fashion, the goal is to create a completely renovated area with streets, squares and parks that are accessible and open to all, while already making significant improvements such as the creation of underground parking with 800 spaces and a new kindergarten.
The Manifattura Tabacchi project consists in 16 buildings, with a total of 110,000 sqm which will be transformed into a functional mix divided between lofts and residences, office spaces, stores, cafés, restaurants, accommodation for students and a hotel.
The works carried out honour the site’s former function as a tobacco factory, with the Caveau exhibition space offering the opportunity to explore the history and heritage of Manifattura Tabacchi. Guided tours take you through the machinery, decorative items, fixtures and materials found, that have been carefully catalogued and displayed. A strong mission of sustainability is at the foundation of the projects, with works carried out in full compliance with ESG standards. The entire residential project obtained the highest standards of environmental sustainability, receiving the BREEAM Excellent certification. Officina Botanica is the green hub of the complex, located on the rooftop of the central building, reaching over 560 m2, with 96 trees and 1,300 shrubs and perennials, it’s a feat of the industrial architecture to feature such biodiverse greenery.
The first residential project was presented in September 2022, consisting of 45 units with a high level of design, in the context of two historic buildings, working to preserve the original architecture. It was developed across 25,000 m2 by Patricia Urquiola, a leading figure in international architecture and design, and by the q-bic studio.
Cultural innovation is also at the heart of Manifattura Tabacchi with prestigious institutions such as Polimoda Fashion School opening their third headquarters in the iconic building with the clock, today attended by over 800 international students. Set to be added is the European Heritage Research Infrastructure, dedicated to the scientific conservation of cultural heritage, thanks to the purchase of a portion of the building by Fondazione CR Firenze, in agreement with the National Research Council.
