Mario Cucinella Architects completes sustainable campus for Bologna Business School

Bologna Business School has inaugurated the expansion of its campus, designed by MCA – Mario Cucinella Architects. The new educational hub is nestled in the Bolognese hills, emphasizing innovation and sustainability. The project connects to the historic Villa Guastavillani via a long staircase, blending past and present. The design combines reuse and new construction: an existing farmhouse and former oven were converted into flexible classrooms and a reception area, while the main teaching block reconfigures three pre-existing structures. The new building consists of two volumes at different heights, overlooking gardens that open the landscape to viewers despite being largely underground. A bronze-toned canopy with louvered panels provides natural ventilation and creates an agora for social interaction. The campus sits within 15 hectares of parkland, with concentric terraces for sports and leisure. Interior design emphasizes flexibility: a circular oak staircase doubles as a conference theater, and the cafeteria can serve as a study space. Sustainability features include a photovoltaic system on the farmhouse roof and rainwater collection. Mario Cucinella stated, 'The project develops around the idea of unity in diversity: the new building relates to the landscape as a unifying and generative element.' The school, founded in 2000, is part of the University of Bologna, the oldest university in the world.