Franco Albini: The 'Bad' Architect of Italian Modernism

Luigi Prestinenza Puglisi profiles Franco Albini, arguing that his 'cattiveria' (toughness) was key to his architectural genius. The article explores Albini's dual influences: the lyrical modernism of Edoardo Persico and the historicist approach of Ernesto Nathan Rogers and the Milanese School. Puglisi highlights the often-overlooked role of Franca Helg, Albini's collaborator from 1952 until his death in 1977, who bridged these two poles. Key works discussed include the Rinascente in Rome, the INA office building in Parma, and three masterpieces of lightness: the staircase at Palazzo Rosso, the 'Veliero' bookshelf, and the telescopic support at Palazzo Bianco. The profile also notes Albini's influence on Renzo Piano and Italo Rota, and the critical esteem of Manfredo Tafuri and Vittorio Gregotti.