Santa Maria della Scala's New Masterplan: A Multi-Architect Regeneration

The Complesso Museale Santa Maria della Scala in Siena has launched a new regeneration masterplan, moving beyond the incomplete 1990s 'Piano Canali' by architect Guido Canali. The Fondazione Antico Ospedale Santa Maria della Scala, chaired by Cristiano Leone and directed by Chiara Valdambrini, commissioned Luca Molinari Studio to analyze the original project and coordinate a multi-architect approach. LAN Architecture, Studio Odile Decq, and Hannes Peer Architecture will each design specific functional areas, aiming to transform the 36,000 sqm complex into a 'casa della città' (city house) with educational, research, restoration, dining, and auditorium spaces, plus artist residencies. The project will proceed in phases without closing to the public. A site-specific installation by Jacob Hashimoto, 'Path to the Sky,' featuring 3,000 handmade kites, runs until September 30, 2025, symbolizing the institution's new phase. Mayor Nicoletta Fabio's administration is betting on long-term vision over immediate results, but the Comune di Siena seeks additional partners including the Ministry of Culture, the Tuscany Region, and private entities. The masterplan is unprecedented in Italy for a heritage site of this scale.