The renovation and expansion of the historic Hotel Excelsior Gallia in the heart of Milan is part of the wider urban redevelopment of Piazza Duca D'Aosta, following the recent completion of the modernization works at the Central Station.

An international investment fund from Qatar has acquired the hotel, which consists of a 1930s building and an extension dating from the early 1960s known as Pirelli Wing, with the intention of turning it into a five star luxury hotel.

Following an international selection process, the architectural project was awarded to Studio Marco Piva, while the structural and plant projects were assigned to Arup.

The Interiors Division of Studio Marco Piva was subsequently appointed to carry out also the Interior Design project.

The new project developed by architect Marco Piva comprises a complex of buildings in which the completely restored and renovated late Belle Epoque building will stand alongside a newly-designed structure to be constructed facing Piazza Duca D'Aosta, via Galvani and via Filzi to create a light steel and glass curtain, a counterpoint to the solid, monumental shapes of the "historic" buildings.

The project concept is a reference to the Milan lifestyle, to the unique set of dynamic elements that have always been a feature of the life of the city.

Source: interiornews.com.