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Archistart Studio to Transform Abandoned Ex Galateo in Lecce into Social Housing Hub

architecture-design · 2026-04-27

The Ex Galateo building in Lecce, constructed between 1932 and 1934 by the Istituto Nazionale Fascista per la Previdenza Sociale, is set for revitalization by Archistart Studio. This firm emerged victorious in a 2018 international competition organized by Regione Puglia, Comune di Lecce, Puglia Valore Immobiliare, and Arca Sud Salento. The initiative carries a prize of €80,000 along with a €1.2 million commission. Spanning 12,000 square meters, the development will comprise 48 apartments, 10 guest houses, accommodations for 130 residents, facilities for 35 students, 6 workshops, 6 social enterprises, and 1,700 square meters designated for commercial use. A public park of 3 hectares will feature a kiosk bar and gym equipment. Established in 2015, Archistart Studio emphasizes community and sustainability.

Key facts

  • Building abandoned since mid-1990s
  • Original construction 1932-1934 by Istituto Nazionale Fascista per la Previdenza Sociale
  • International competition announced in 2018 with €80,000 prize and €1.2 million commission
  • Won by Archistart Studio in early December 2020
  • Project includes 48 apartments, 10 guest houses, 35 student spaces, 6 workshops, 6 social enterprises
  • Total area 12,000 square meters
  • Public park of 3 hectares
  • Archistart Studio founded in 2015 by four architects born in 1987

Entities

Artists

  • Giacomo Potì
  • Lucio Risi
  • Tommaso Santoro Cayro
  • Davide Tartaglia

Institutions

  • Istituto Nazionale Fascista per la Previdenza Sociale
  • Regione Puglia
  • Comune di Lecce
  • Puglia Valore Immobiliare
  • Arca Sud Salento
  • Ordine degli Architetti, Pianificatori, Paesaggisti e conservatori della Provincia di Lecce
  • Soprintendenza archeologica belle arti e paesaggio delle Province di Lecce, Brindisi e Taranto
  • Archistart Studio
  • Alcotec
  • Artribune

Locations

  • Lecce
  • Italy
  • Rome
  • Milan
  • Latina
  • Brindisi
  • Taranto

Sources