The Alps
Urban Design Studio
Territories Research
Urban Design Studio
Territories Research
4th semester M.Sc
Summer semester 2024
In collaboration with Tuulia Brax
Summer semester 2024
In collaboration with Tuulia Brax
Leibniz University Hanover
Faculty of Architecture and Landscape
Chair for Regional Building and Urban Planning
Institute of Urban Design and Planning
Prof. Dipl.-Ing. Univ. Jörg Schröder
Riccarda Cappeller MSc MA | Dr.-Ing. Alissa Diesch | Arch. Federica Scaffidi PhD | Rebekka Wandt
Faculty of Architecture and Landscape
Chair for Regional Building and Urban Planning
Institute of Urban Design and Planning
Prof. Dipl.-Ing. Univ. Jörg Schröder
Riccarda Cappeller MSc MA | Dr.-Ing. Alissa Diesch | Arch. Federica Scaffidi PhD | Rebekka Wandt
The 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin brought global recognition to the region but also left a lasting impact on the surrounding mountain villages. While the event initially generated excitement and investment, many of these communities now face abandoned infrastructure, economic stagnation, and increasing depopulation. Our urban regeneration project proposes a sustainable, forward-thinking strategy to revitalize Val Chisone, balancing innovation with tradition to ensure long-term resilience and prosperity. Our concept is built around three key pillars: economic revitalization, cultural preservation, and sustainable development. By supporting local entrepreneurship, encouraging small businesses, and enhancing digital connectivity, we aim to create new economic opportunities while preventing further outmigration. Infrastructure improvements, along with a focus on adaptive reuse of existing buildings, will help reintegrate these villages into a thriving regional network. At the same time, our project prioritizes heritage conservation, community-driven spaces, and the promotion of local traditions, ensuring that economic renewal goes hand in hand with social and cultural sustainability. A fundamental aspect of our strategy is the integration of the Slow Movement, which originated in Piedmont in 1986 and advocates for regional, fair, and sustainable food production. This philosophy not only fosters economic resilience but also strengthens cultural identity and environmental responsibility. By supporting small-scale agriculture, revitalizing local markets, and promoting regional food craftsmanship, we aim to empower producers while enhancing the region’s appeal. Additionally, educational programs and research initiatives will preserve traditional mountain farming methods while introducing sustainable innovations tailored to the unique environmental conditions of the region. As tourism patterns evolve due to climate change, the Slow Tourism movement presents a valuable opportunity for sustainable growth. Increasingly, travelers are drawn to low-impact, immersive experiences that emphasize nature, local engagement, and cultural depth. Our project embraces this shift by promoting activities such as hiking, cycling, water sports, and culinary tourism, offering visitors a more meaningful connection to the region while supporting local businesses and traditions. Aligned with the Slow Cities initiative, our project also prioritizes sustainable mobility solutions. Reducing car dependency through expanded public transport networks and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure will not only improve accessibility but also enhance the overall quality of life for residents. By integrating sustainable urban planning, responsible tourism, and regional economic strategies, we aim to create a holistic model for long-term resilience. This vision for Val Chisone seeks to transform the post-Olympic challenges into opportunities, turning these mountain villages into economically stable, culturally vibrant, and socially inclusive communities. By embracing innovation while respecting tradition, our project sets the foundation for a sustainable and thriving future.
