Olivetti and the territory as a project: the case of the West Residential Unit

Abstract

The West Housing Unit, also known as Talponia, is an emblematic example of architecture integrated into the landscape. Part of the Olivetti architectural complex, it was commissioned in 1968 to architects Roberto Gabetti and Aimaro Oreglia d'Isola. Built as a residence for Olivetti employees, the structure offers an innovative vision of living, based on harmony between built space and natural landscape. The architecture follows the hilly terrain, resulting in a visually discreet structure with minimal impact on the surrounding environment. The glass façades provide natural light and visual continuity with the landscape, while the green roof contributes to thermal insulation and ecological integration. The essay, thanks in part to an unpublished interview conducted by the author with Aimaro Oreglia d'Isola, offers a new interpretation of the project, an early example of sustainable architecture that anticipated issues that are now essential, such as green building and the balance between man and nature. Talponia is thus a reference model for organic architecture and a symbol of Olivetti's philosophy, which combined technological innovation, social responsibility and integration between man and the environment.