CuBo | Aldo AmorettiCuBo, the Cultural Box at the Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, is the first project realized within the thirty-year Horti Academici Master Plan. Designed by Labics in collaboration with Topotek1, the building introduces a structured framework that integrates contextual sensitivity, geometric rigor, and human-centered spatial design.CuBo Technical InformationArchitects1-16: LabicsMaster Plan: Labics & Topotek1Location: Trigoria Neighborhood, Rome, ItalyClient: Campus Bio-Medico S.p.A.Area: 10,500m2 | 113,000 Sq. Ft.Project Year: 2020 2023Photographs: Aldo AmorettiPublic space, the epitome of any democratic system, is at the heart of the project. Labics ArchitectsCuBo PhotographsExterior View | Aldo AmorettiFacade | Aldo AmorettiExterior View | Aldo AmorettiFacade Corner Detail | Aldo AmorettiEntrance | Aldo AmorettiCourtyard | Aldo AmorettiInterior Space | Aldo AmorettiStairs | Aldo AmorettiStairs | Aldo AmorettiAuditorium | Aldo AmorettiContextual Foundations: The Vision of CuBo within Horti AcademiciThe CuBo project stems from a larger vision to integrate the Campus Bio-Medico of Rome into the Roman countrysides cultural and natural landscape. At the heart of the Horti Academici Master Plan, a reinterpretation of the Roman centurion organizes the campus through a 66-meter square matrix. This rigid and flexible grid is disrupted by a green spine inspired by the nearby Decima Malafede Nature Reserve, weaving nature into the geometric framework.This vision aligns with the One Health holistic approach, which recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and ecosystem health. CuBo epitomizes this philosophy, bridging academia, healthcare, and urban vitality to foster a collaborative environment that extends beyond its walls. Located at the junction of major campus pathways, CuBo becomes both a destination and a node within this meticulously planned campus.Architectural Narrative: Form and FunctionCuBos architectural design is a dialogue between tradition and modernity, simplicity and complexity. At first glance, its cubic form, adhering to the 66-meter square matrix, appears straightforward. However, upon closer examination, the interplay of porticos, courtyards, and double-height spaces reveals a layered spatial narrative.The building adopts a hybrid typology, combining a linear structure with courtyard arrangements. Its central courtyard bifurcates into an internal, more formal courtyard and an external, eccentrically positioned one. This spatial arrangement, enriched by covered passages and generous openings, fosters interaction and connectivity, embodying the principles of public space as democratic space.Internally, the design prioritizes flexibility. Specialized areas like the auditorium and simulation center coexist with multifunctional classrooms and informal gathering spaces. The spatial hierarchy evolves from traditional classroom-focused layouts to diverse spaces that encourage collaborative learning, informal meetings, and spontaneous interactions.Materiality and Environmental SynergyCuBos material palette mirrors its design ethos: simplicity and rigor. The buildings structure is defined by exposed reinforced concrete, combining prefabricated and in-situ elements, while dark brick cladding evokes the timeless charm of historic university campuses. Internally, the juxtaposition of materialslight gray terrazzo, warm wood, and acoustic rubber flooringenhances the sense of openness and functionality.The relationship with the landscape is central to CuBos identity. Large windows strategically frame views of the Roman countryside, blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior. The natural hill at the buildings entrance becomes a deliberate design element, with the double-height portico and glazing integrating it into the spatial experience. The central courtyard, partially mineral and partially green, acts as a gathering space, seamlessly connecting with the surrounding campus.Porticos play a dual role in CuBos design. They serve as architectural devices mediating between public and private, interior and exterior, while also functioning as bioclimatic tools, providing shade and protection from the elements.Critical Reflections: CuBo as a Public Architecture ParadigmAt its core, CuBo is a study of the architectural philosophy of public space as a democratic space. Nearly half of the buildings area is devoted to relational spaces, highlighting the importance of collective experience in shaping educational environments. These spaces are not merely connective but designed to be destinations in themselvesplaces where interactions and ideas flourish.The design balances institutional identity with human scale, ensuring the building resonates with its users. The deliberate openness of CuBos layout invites participation, collaboration, and discovery, embodying an architecture model that prioritizes community over isolation.CuBo PlansSite Plan | LabicsGround Level | LabicsLevel 1 | LabicsFloor Plan | LabicsSections | LabicsCuBo Image GalleryAbout LabicsLabics is an architectural and urban planning practice based in Rome, founded in 2002 by Maria Claudia Clemente and Francesco Isidori. Known for its conceptual rigor and innovative designs, Labics is a laboratory for advanced ideas, combining theoretical exploration with applied research. The studios portfolio spans diverse scales, from intimate interiors to expansive urban master plans. Among its notable projects are the MAST Foundation in Bologna, the Citt del Sole multifunctional complex in Rome, and the restoration of Palazzo dei Diamanti in Ferrara.Notes & Additional CreditsArchitectural Design: LabicsPrinciples: Maria Claudia Clemente and Francesco IsidoriMaster Plan: Labics and Topotek1Design Team Members: Tommaso Mennuni (Project Leader), Carolina Bajetti, Arianna Marino, Federico Pitzalis, Maria Iva SacchettiEngineering & Construction Supervision: Planning SrlAcoustics Consulting: Marco PaolicchioBuilding Inspection: Studio Cartolano SrlGeneral Contractor: Impresa Percassi S.p.AGross Floor Area: 10,500 square metersNet Usable Floor Area: 6,500 square metersLevels: Three (1 underground, 2 above ground)Key Spaces:Classrooms: 8 (176 seats each, divisible into two 88-seat classrooms)Auditorium: 330 seats (divisible into two 165-seat rooms)Cafeteria: 208 sqmStudy Area: 388 sqm multifunctional spaceFaculty Offices: 135 sqm with meeting roomsSimulation Center: 450 sqmChapel: 77 sqm with adjacent meeting roomTechnical Rooms: 2,200 sqm located in the basementStructure: Exposed reinforced concrete (prefabricated and cast-in-situ)Cladding: Dark-colored solid bricksFlooring: Terrazzo slabs (atrium and circulation spaces), Wooden slats (auditorium, study rooms, cafeteria), Rubber floating floors (classrooms)Windows: Bronzed finish for external glazing