Abstract:

The paper presents some results of the didactic experimentation developed within the workshops MItigation Risk Design of historical architecture (MiRiDe) and Architecture and Structure MEtaDesign (ASMeD), promoted by the School of Architecture Urban Planning Construction Engineering of the Politecnico di Milano.
The main topic is the study of architecture in historic centres in seismic zones, considering the specific issue of structural resources and risk prevention.

The methodological approach and the training objectives of the two workshops are characterised by offering participants an experience capable of combining theory/practice, knowledge/skill. This is also achieved through visits to case studies and construction sites with the aim of reworking the knowledge proposed in the classroom.

The paper is organised in four parts:
- The first part presents the training objectives and teaching methodologies underlying the workshops in relation to the departmental research themes, with particular attention to placing the themes within a reconnaissance of the current problems that characterise historical centres in seismic zones.
- The second part summarises the outcomes of the participants' research experiences related to project experiences in Italian contexts. The individual case studies were reread considering: historical-geographical context, state of affairs, elements of vulnerability, design guidelines and solutions. Particular attention was given to the use of different forms and languages for the restitution of the research (physical models, digital models, architectural representations, descriptive texts, graphic summaries).
- The third part presents a reinterpretation of the teachings of the past that are still valid today in terms of theoretical principles and constitute a starting point for promoting innovation in materials, techniques and construction systems. The interaction between the university and manufacturing companies becomes, for the student, an area of development of technical and meta-design knowledge and skills.
- The last part summarises the course of action, with the aim of presenting the outcome of the research (identifying its educational and professional spin-offs) and grasping areas for development of the research work.

Keywords:

Historical centres, seismic area, architectural and engineering design.