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TRANSITIONAL HOUSING
An Expansion Strategy for SPRAR Refugee Second Reception
[by Emad Lajevardi, 2019–2020]

The thesis addresses the challenges of second-stage refugee reception, highlighting how existing housing solutions often fail to meet the spatial, safety, cultural and emotional needs of forcibly displaced people. Drawing on migration research and the concept of uncertain living, the project develops a design methodology aimed at creating transitional environments that alleviate the stresses of post-displacement resettlement. Applied to the expansion of the SPRAR system in Milan, the proposal envisions supportive housing that guides refugees from their arrival in Italy to the point of self-reliance, turning shelter into a sanctuary and a space for recovery.

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CO-LIVING
Proposal for an Innovative Age-Friendly Cohabitation in Aler’s Estate
[by Ilaria Bianchi, 2019–2020]

The thesis explores innovative co-living models designed for older adults (65+), aiming to reduce isolation, encourage social interaction and provide a supportive environment without removing residents from their familiar neighborhood. By examining existing co-living practices and relevant case studies, the project identifies spatial strategies and shared services suited to elderly users with mild vulnerabilities. Applied to an Aler-owned housing estate, the proposal introduces typological transformations and common spaces to promote active, intergenerational living while supporting independent lifestyles.

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ZERO TYPE
Manual Against Typological Stereotypes
[by Morena Amendolagine & Michela Stamin, 2019–2020]

The thesis defines a “zero type”: a primary housing model capable of overcoming typological stereotypes by identifying the essential features that allow long-term spatial flexibility. The research compares nineteenth-century residential buildings with modern and contemporary cases to determine which architectural qualities enable spaces to adapt to changing needs without structural intervention. Four categories of flexibility are examined: constructive, technological, functional and typological. The work concludes with a set of guidelines tested on a Milan case study, showing how distributive neutrality, adaptable layouts and reduced over-dimensioning can generate resilient dwellings suitable for diverse and evolving ways of living.

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BEYOND RETROFITTING
Investigating the Role of Spatial Quality in Energy Performance Strategies
[by Alice Cajelli & Gianluca Guiu, 2019–2020]

The thesis investigates how spatial quality can enhance energy retrofitting strategies, moving beyond a purely technical approach to the renovation of existing social housing. The chosen case study – a residential complex in the Romolo district of Milan – serves as a testing ground to explore how typological reorganization, improved dwelling layouts, upgraded communal spaces and environmental devices can simultaneously increase comfort, efficiency, livability and social interaction. Combining energy analysis, spatial assessment and design scenarios, the thesis proposes a retrofitting model that integrates environmental sustainability with the qualitative improvement of everyday living conditions.

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ORDINARY COURTYARDS
[by Valeria Righetti & Marta Sciarra, 2019-2020]

During lockdown, ordinary courtyards revealed an unexpected potential: previously neglected spaces used as parking or storage became places for new forms of daily life.
The project investigates how these semi-private domestic courtyards can become a new model of public space in the post-pandemic city.
Applied to a Pilot Block in NoLo (Milan), the strategy aims to open property boundaries, activate ground floors facing the courtyards, and introduce shared activities.
By rethinking courtyards through the lens of the Commons, the project suggests how these spaces could help address social, housing and environmental issues, stimulate local economies and strengthen neighborhood interactions across different urban scales.

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