Studio B.B.P.R.

Italy 1932
Architects and designers

Studio BBPR: A Visionary Architectural Collective

Studio BBPR was founded in 1932 by a group of Italian architects: Gian Luigi Banfi, Ludovico Belgiojoso, Enrico Peressutti, and Ernesto Nathan Rogers. The studio’s name, “BBPR,” comes from the initials of these four founding members, whose collaboration resulted in some of the most innovative and influential architecture of the 20th century. Their work is known for combining modernist principles with an appreciation for Italy’s historical and architectural heritage, pushing them to explore bold forms and materials that respected the past while embracing the future.

The group emerged during a turbulent period in Italian history, marked by the rise of fascism and the destruction of World War II. Their commitment to socially conscious design was deeply personal—especially for Belgiojoso and Banfi, who were imprisoned during the war due to their anti-fascist activities. Banfi tragically did not survive, but Belgiojoso, Peressutti, and Rogers continued to lead BBPR, infusing their designs with a dedication to cultural integrity and humanistic values.

Notable Works

BBPR’s portfolio is distinguished by works that span a range of forms and functions, with the Torre Velasca in Milan being perhaps their most famous achievement. Completed in 1958, the Torre Velasca is a 106-meter-tall skyscraper that captures both brutalist aesthetics and traditional Italian architectural motifs. Its unique mushroom-like form is designed to echo the medieval towers that once dominated Milan’s skyline, symbolizing the resilience of the city after the devastation of war.

Another significant project by BBPR is the Monument to the Victims of Nazi Concentration Camps at the Cimitero Monumentale in Milan, designed in the 1940s. This work, with its powerful symbolism and stripped-down design, reflects the studio’s commitment to honoring memory through architecture.

In addition to their architectural achievements, BBPR also designed interiors and furniture, often custom pieces for their buildings, as exemplified by the pendant lights for the Torre Velasca. These designs further highlight their holistic approach, ensuring harmony between architecture and interior elements.

Principles and Legacy

BBPR’s design philosophy emphasized the importance of context, materiality, and historical continuity. While they were inspired by the modernist movement and its principles of functionalism and simplicity, BBPR also believed in creating designs that responded to the cultural and historical contexts of their locations. They coined the concept of “Neorealismo,” an approach that rejected abstract modernism in favor of more human, site-responsive designs.

Studio BBPR’s influence can be seen today in the works of architects and designers who prioritize historical resonance and contextually sensitive design. Their work remains a vital chapter in architectural history, blending modernism with an enduring respect for cultural identity.