stories of roots

Scalo di Porta Romana, Milan (MI)

1000 sqm

2024

“History of Roots” is an immersive project hosted at Genera Spazi in Milan, designed to create a space where elders can share their life stories, connect with others, and celebrate their cultural heritage. Through storytelling, music, and literature, the initiative fosters intergenerational dialogue and social connection. In collaboration with Feltrinelli, the project integrates books and the symbolic imagery of trees, representing growth, knowledge, and memory. The space features thoughtfully designed areas for storytelling, reading, and creative expression, inviting visitors to engage with history and imagination in a meaningful way.

PLAN VIEW

PLAN VIEW + MATERIALS

A central, open area with warm wooden tones, high ceilings, and elegant arches, designed to encourage storytelling and interaction. The circular seating layout fosters a sense of community, while bookshelves around the space feature curated selections from Feltrinelli, offering visitors the opportunity to read and connect their own stories with literature.

MAIN GATHERING AREA

A dedicated stage area invites visitors to share their stories or perform music, blending oral traditions with creative expression. Equipped with musical instruments, the space encourages storytelling through sound, fostering emotional connection and collective memory. This area becomes a focal point for intergenerational sharing and cultural celebration.

STORYTELLING STAGE

READING AREA

Bookshelves are a unifying feature across all areas, reinforcing the collaboration with Feltrinelli. They not only provide visitors with access to literature but also symbolize the intertwining of personal and collective histories, offering a reflective and enriching experience.

This immersive corridor features multimedia installations and projections that bring elders’ personal stories to life. Winding wooden partitions guide visitors through the space, while the green-lit walls and forest imagery create a meditative, nature-inspired atmosphere, emphasizing connection and growth.