François Pinault Opens Gucci Hub in Former Caproni Hangar in Milan

François Pinault has inaugurated the Gucci Hub at via Mecenate 79 in Milan, a 30,000-square-meter complex housed in the former Caproni aircraft factory hangars (1915-1950s). Originally planned as a Kering hub for multiple brands including Stella McCartney, Balenciaga, Bottega Veneta, and Alexander McQueen, the project was scaled back to serve only Gucci. The shift may be linked to the transition from Frida Giannini to Alessandro Michele as creative director. Designed by Milanese studio Piuarch, the renovation preserves the original shed roof and red brick walls, adding a six-story glass-and-metal tower (3,000 sqm) and restoring the main hangar (nearly 4,000 sqm, half used for fashion shows since 2017). Estimated cost is 150 million euros. The area's redevelopment is hampered by delays in Metro Line 4, now scheduled for 2022. Nearby cultural venues include M77 Gallery (via Mecenate 77) and East Ends Studios (via Mecenate 84).