The project involved the demolition of an outdated school gym that no longer met energy and functional requirements, to make way for a modern facility. The design combines bioclimatic principles with targeted technical solutions. The new multi-purpose sports hall in Nembro, in the province of Bergamo, Italy, was designed by ATI Project and Didonè Comacchio Architects and is designed as a nearly zero-energy building (NZEB) that meets Italy's minimum environmental criteria (CAM).
The sports hall can accommodate approximately 400 spectators and is designed for multiple sports disciplines. The building consists of two parts: a main building with a height of 11.80 metres, which houses the entrance, stairwell and lift, and a lower section with changing rooms for the athletes. The main sports hall meets the size requirements for basketball and volleyball, with a minimum internal height of 8 metres to allow for competitive play.
The hall can be divided into two separate fields, which benefits the local community and allows multiple activities to take place simultaneously. The seating is designed for spectators and is clearly separated from the playing areas.
Sustainability overview
The building envelope has been designed as a continuous, high-quality system. Opaque elements ensure a balance between insulation and sustainability, while transparent sections provide natural daylight with controlled solar heat. The south-facing glazing is fitted with external sun blinds for visual comfort and seasonal energy efficiency.
The integration of renewable energy is central to the project. A photovoltaic system with a peak capacity of 37.7 kilowatts and highly efficient hydronic heat pumps provide a significant portion of the annual energy requirement. Renewable sources account for more than 60 per cent of total energy consumption and approximately 74 per cent of domestic hot water production. Smart climate control, supported by natural ventilation strategies, rainwater harvesting, radon mitigation and environmentally friendly landscaping, enhances the project's environmental performance.
Material innovations
Structural assemblies use prefabricated X-lam timber panels for walls, floors and roofs, combining structural performance with renewable raw materials and a lower carbon footprint. Internal partition walls use dry plasterboard systems on metal frames, limiting the use of adhesives and allowing for future dismantling.
Low-emission materials certified to M1, ELF and Zero-VOC standards ensure a healthy indoor environment. Permeable paving on the exterior and a rainwater reuse network reduce the impact on the soil and water cycle, reflecting an approach that integrates performance, health and resource efficiency.
Carbon footprint
Renewable systems provide nearly 60 per cent of the annual demand for thermal energy. The building envelope has a heat transfer coefficient of 0.22 W/m²K, well below the legal thresholds, which supports high seasonal efficiency and comfort. Energy consumption for heating, cooling and general operation remains below national limits, reflecting the combined effectiveness of the envelope and systems.
Additional strategies include reflective roofing to reduce the heat island effect, VOC-free interior finishes and efficient water management. Together, these measures contribute to CO₂ reduction, efficient use of resources and the well-being of residents.
Circular economy
The new hall replaces an outdated school gym and integrates circular economy principles into its design. The hall is designed as a multipurpose facility and can be used by both the school and local associations. The main hall is divided into different areas, allowing multiple activities to take place simultaneously.
The project incorporates material strategies that support circularity. Approximately 37 per cent of the building's weight comes from recycled or reclaimed materials, while the end-of-life strategy aims to recover more than 70 per cent of the materials through selective demolition. This approach extends the life cycle of materials beyond the immediate use of the building.
Functional interventions
The site is located in a semi-peripheral area of the city, close to green spaces and existing sports facilities, including the Saletti sports centre and tennis club. The intervention area covers the footprint of the former gym and an adjacent green space currently used for beach volleyball.
The new sports hall performs better in terms of energy efficiency than the former gymnasium, thanks to improved insulation and modern systems. The hall offers multifunctional spaces for school sports and basketball and volleyball matches, with an emphasis on both architectural quality and energy efficiency.
