The Vitality of the Archive

A series of talks on archives as a “living heritage” will be organized at the Renzo Piano Foundation at the Politecnico di Milano. These events will explore archives not only as places where traces of memory are preserved, but also as spaces where the vitality of architectural design continues to thrive—projecting itself, through its methods and practices, far beyond the physical existence of built architecture.

Dialogues with curators and designers from the fields of architecture, design, and engineering (and beyond) will demonstrate how memory—in all its forms, from drawings, photographs, and models to narratives and more—is not only a testimony to the work of great designers of the past but also a tool for future design, a generator of new ideas.

This first series marks the beginning of a new path that brings together creativity, research, and innovation, seeking within the roots of design the images and visions that shape the construction of tomorrow.

For the 2025 edition, Roberto Dulio, Delegate of the Rector for the Archival, Library, and Museum System at the Politecnico di Milano, will meet with scholars and curators from archives and foundations dedicated to key figures of Milan’s architectural and design culture: Vico Magistretti, Achille Castiglioni, and Piero Portaluppi.

Below you can find the program and the link to register for the events.

Program
The Vitality of the Archive

• November 5, 2025, 5:30 PM: Conversation with Margherita Pellino, Fondazione Studio Museo Vico Magistretti.
  To learn more, visit Homepage | Fondazione Vico Magistretti
• November 19, 2025, 5:30 PM: Conversation with Giovanna Castiglioni, Fondazione Achille Castiglioni.
  To learn more, visit FONDAZIONE ACHILLE CASTIGLIONI
• November 24, 2025, 5:30 PM: Conversation with Ferruccio Luppi, Piero Portaluppi Archive, and with Letizia Castellini and Piero Maranghi
  To learn more, visit Archivio - Raccolta & Documenti della Fondazione Portaluppi

Register using this link!