Costruzione, degrado, demolizione. Tutto in 20 anni. Il Terminal di via Valfonda a Firenze (1990-2010) / Construction, decay, demolition. All in 20 years. The Terminal in Via Valfonda, Florence (1990-2010)

Abstract

The contribution addresses some aspects that accompanied the fate of an architecture rich in ideas, materials, both traditional and modern. Designed by Cristiano Toraldo di Francia and Andrea Noferi, the Terminal was placed in an interesting yet complex context, bridging Santa Maria Novella station and the INA ASSITALIA Palace, two essentially coeval buildings but profoundly different in their architectural features. In front of it lies the square bordered by the imposing transept of Santa Maria Novella, while on the opposite side, the defining feature is the front section of the station's Palazzina Reale. Over a few years, the Terminal experienced progressive material decay and a sort of disaffection that led to its premature demolition. The contribution deals, in particular, with two aspects. The relationship between old and new, also considering that in this same area, in relation to this issue, there had been the extraordinary result of the Toscano Group Santa Maria Novella station, which seemed to seal the premise of a place destined for successful contemporary architectural experimentation. The other aspect addressed is the early degradation of some materials used, in relation to their application. Through these areas of reflection, we aim to contribute to understanding the reasons for the decline and oblivion of an architectural work born from an ambitious design.