Castello di Brazza - Friuli, Italy

This structure was originally built by the Ancient Romans to survey the surrounding territory against enemy attacks. It was so appropriate in its essence that first the Germans and then the British occupied it during World War II as a strategic communications tower. The study and restoration of this ancient fortification is seminal to the way Studio Ectypos considers architecture. Revealing the origins of a place and its soul is the key to its transformation. The materiality of this seemingly organic structure appears to grow directly from the hillock on which it is situated. Yet its geometry is specifically linked to all fortifications of its era, a 9th century model of minimalism. This project required meticulous measurement and documentation of the existing conditions and consolidation of the existing walls to protect against collapse without altering the historic form.