September 20, 2016: Luxury brand Gucci has announced the opening of its new 35,000 sq mt Milan head office in the historic Caproni aeronautical factory built in 1915.
Following a three year restoration of the original structure, the new 'Gucci Hub' brings together the fashion house's Milan offices, worldwide showrooms, fashion show venue and graphics and photo studios in one location with more than 250 employees.
Marco Bizzarri, Gucci's President and CEO, said, “Our Milan location…where we welcome buyers and press from around the world each season – now joins our two other centers of excellence in Italy. Our Florence headquarters with over 1,300 employees, remains the heart of our historic brand and is the centre of excellence for Gucci's renowned craftsmanship and manufacturing, while our Rome-based design office represents the centre of excellence for the company's groundbreaking creativity."
The first step in renovation was to reconfigure what was once a production area with sheds that usher in natural light. Exposed brick facades line the main road that connects the buildings and offices all the way to the covered plaza. In the center of the complex stands a newly constructed six story glass-front office tower set on more than 3,000 square meters of land. The tower’s striking size and shape and dark metal components contrast with the red exposed brick of the original buildings. The hangars, once used for the final assembly of Caproni aircraft, have also been carefully restored occupying 3,850 sq mts of space, including 2,000 sq mts that will be used to stage fashion shows from 2017 onwards. The expansive car park can accommodate 300 vehicles.
The interior design reflects Gucci Creative Director Alessandro Michele’s vision and aesthetic. Furnishings and décor were carefully considered, evaluated and sourced. The pieces are one-of-a-kind and cannot be replicated or purchased anywhere. Theater seating, old bar countertops and vintage screens, armchairs and side tables create a comfortable atmosphere.
