Project: De Amicis 154
Architecture: Giovanni Vaccarini architects
Team: Giovanni Vaccarini, Matteo Preite, Herman Carbonetti
Main Contractor: ELEA srl
Strutture: Lorenzo Rinaldi
Location: Pescara, Italy
Year: 2024
Photo Credits: Anna Positano, Gaia Cambiaggi – Studio Campo
De Amicis 154 by Giovanni Vaccarini Architects reinterprets a small part of Pescara’s urban fabric with a fresh and creative approach. The design fits neatly into its surroundings while creating a dynamic and engaging atmosphere. Although I could not locate many external details, the project’s concept and design intent are clear from the available description.
Context and Urban Neighbors
On the north side of the site, a round building designed by Luigi Aligi in 1965 and a seafront structure by Francesco Berarducci from 1977 set a strong architectural tone. On the west side, a 1964 building by Enrico Summonte anchors the corner of Via Regina Elena and Via De Amicis. De Amicis 154 aligns with these established structures, following the prevailing lines of Via De Amicis and Via Regina Elena. In doing so, it creates continuity with the historic urban fabric while also adding a modern twist.
Stacked Villas and Overhanging Terraces
The design theme revolves around a series of stacked villas. The building has a relatively small footprint, yet it is surrounded by terraces and gardens with strong, pronounced overhangs. These overlapping floors are most visible at the corner between Via De Amicis and Via Regina Elena. Here, the terraces open up to capture glimpses of the landscape between the sea and the mountains. Although the building does not sit directly on the seafront, it is arranged like a plant seeking sunlight. It is oriented toward the Adriatic, rising above the building in front of it to create an unexpected sea view.
Simple Materials and Clear Views
The design makes use of simple, yet striking, materials. The white wall masses and ceilings stand out against the metallic gray side railings and slim metal columns along Via De Amicis. These slender columns, like elongated tree trunks, add a natural touch to the modern building. The east-facing view is particularly dramatic, as cantilevered floors create an urban protrusion that frames a clear section of the landscape.
Inspiration and Concept
The idea behind De Amicis 154 is to reinterpret a traditional block typology by introducing a new distribution centered on capturing a sea view. The design team imagined a building that, while not directly on the coast, could still connect with the Adriatic landscape. They achieved this by arranging the building’s massing and terraces to seek out light and views, much like a plant reaching for the sun. This innovative approach brings a fresh perspective to urban design in Pescara.
Urban Impact and Continuity
By carefully respecting the alignments and scale of its neighbors, De Amicis 154 contributes to the lively urban context of Pescara. The project does not compete with its historic surroundings; instead, it creates dialogue with them. The modern design elements—stacked villas, pronounced overhangs, and contemporary materials—add a new layer of meaning to the area. In doing so, the building enriches the streetscape while remaining rooted in its mid‑20th‑century context.
In summary, De Amicis 154 uses a simple yet innovative design to offer unexpected views and create urban continuity. The project proves that even within a dense urban fabric, smart design can capture light, extend spaces, and celebrate both history and modernity.
