New “Il Ferruccio” Theatre

Final design.

Guido Guerra Square in Empoli is a strategic junction connecting the historic city center, the banks of the Arno River, and the route to Vinci. This area is currently the focus of a major urban renewal project. At the heart of this transformation is the construction of Empoli’s new public theatre, “Il Ferruccio,” for which Archea developed the detailed design.
The theatre project is designed to foster a dialogue between the new building, the existing exhibition pavilion, and Via Ridolfi, resulting in a fluid spatialconfiguration that re-organises the space into three main zones: the theatre, a community-oriented space, and a triple-height central foyer.
The architecture captures the theatre’s dual nature, contrasting the grounded solidity of its concrete core with the airy transparency of steel and glass spaces that reach out to the city. This contrast is reflected in the façade as well, where sweeping glass surfaces—a tribute to Empoli’s glassmaking tradition—are complemented by concrete cladding on the vertical volume of the stage tower.
Inside, the theatre features two stacked auditoriums, seating 490 and 150 people respectively, both served by central technical areas and with independent access.The building is designed to be fully inclusive, with barrier-free routes, elevators, and designated spaces, ensuring maximum accessibility for all visitors.

2024-2025

Client
Municipality of Empoli

Project Area
25,500 smq