ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Genova Green Strategy: Openfabric's Vision for a Resilient City

architecture-design · 2026-04-27

The Genova Green Strategy, developed by Openfabric and led by architect Francesco Garofalo, reimagines Genova as six distinct cities within one, addressing chronic urban fragilities and climate change impacts. The strategy identifies six macro-areas sharing similar territorial vulnerabilities, such as flood-prone lowlands and landslide-risk hillsides. It proposes green infrastructure interventions ranging from large-scale torrent management to micro-scale point actions. A key concept is the creation of 'portals'—parks, restored fortifications, and historical aqueducts—to reconnect the city with its undervalued hinterland, shifting perception from a port-centric identity to one embracing its mountainous surroundings. The strategy also advocates for 'spontaneous colonization' in public space design, promoting inclusive, adaptable spaces over over-regulated ones. Openfabric's approach treats territory as the primary parameter for urban interpretation, aiming to mitigate environmental risks while enhancing cultural and natural heritage. The interview with Garofalo was published on Artribune in June 2022.

Key facts

  • Openfabric developed the Genova Green Strategy for Genova, Italy.
  • The strategy identifies six 'cities within the city' based on shared territorial characteristics.
  • It addresses climate change impacts like flooding and landslides.
  • Proposes 'portals' to connect the city with its hinterland.
  • Advocates for 'spontaneous colonization' in public space design.
  • The strategy was presented in 2022.
  • Francesco Garofalo is the founder of Openfabric.
  • The interview was conducted by Valentina Silvestrini for Artribune.

Entities

Artists

  • Francesco Garofalo
  • Renzo Piano
  • Riccardo Morandi
  • Renzo Rosso
  • Marco Bucci
  • Valentina Silvestrini

Institutions

  • Openfabric
  • Artribune
  • Genova Green Strategy

Locations

  • Genova
  • Italy
  • Viadotto Polcevera
  • Genova San Giorgio
  • Bisagno
  • The Hague

Sources