Mario Cucinella Architects Designs 'Abitazione per la Pace' for Refugees in Basilicata
The inaugural 'Abitazione per la Pace' (Home for Peace) is set to rise in Scanzano Jonico, Basilicata, under the design of Mario Cucinella Architects. This project, initiated by Fondazione Città della Pace per i Bambini Basilicata—established by Nobel Prize winner Betty Williams—partners with actress Sharon Stone. Spanning 320 sqm, the building aims to serve as a secure haven for local residents and refugees, utilizing sustainable materials such as straw panels and locally sourced bamboo canes. Once a nuclear waste disposal site, it was revitalized through community efforts. Mario Cucinella highlighted the importance of sustainability and accountability in the project. The agreement was formalized at the FAO headquarters in Rome, involving the Natuzzi Group and Nicola Benedetto, with construction timelines yet to be determined.
Key facts
- First 'Abitazione per la Pace' designed by Mario Cucinella Architects in Scanzano Jonico, Basilicata
- Project by Fondazione Città della Pace per i Bambini Basilicata, founded by Betty Williams
- Collaboration with Sharon Stone
- Low-cost, replicable 320 sqm structure for refugees and local integration
- Uses zero-kilometer materials: straw panels, wood, raw earth plaster
- Shading with local bamboo canes referencing basket-making tradition
- Site saved from nuclear waste dump by community and Betty Williams
- Agreement signed at FAO Rome during Food for Security and Peace meeting
Entities
Artists
- Mario Cucinella
- Betty Williams
- Sharon Stone
- Nicola Benedetto
Institutions
- Mario Cucinella Architects
- Fondazione Città della Pace per i Bambini Basilicata
- FAO
- Natuzzi Group
- BBC srl
Locations
- Scanzano Jonico
- Basilicata
- Rome
- Italy