Church Santa Maria Nuova, Terranuova Bracciolini, Italy, 2005-2010

Project: 2005-2007
Construction: 2007-2010
Partner architect: Mario Maschi
Client: Parish archbishopric S. Maria Bambina
Artist: Sandro Chia
Site area: 2’459 m²
Useful surface: 595 m²
Volume : 4’700 m³

One can make out the new construction from the central square of the city, just beyond the historic centre. The simple north-facing bi-apsidal structure defines a single internal space that is divided into two naves by a longitudinal skylight. The project aims to highlight the presence of the apsidal bodies and, meanwhile, to make the naves disappear. The exterior cladding is in terracotta bricks while the interior is in white stucco. Along the longitudinal skylight, a series of engravings by the artist Sandro Chia virtually outlines a third nave.