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MAXXI Multifunctional Building – Studio Symbiosis’s Vision for Rome

Author : Studio Symbiosis UK | Published On : 16 Mar 2026

The Rome Competition proposal by Studio Symbiosis presents a visionary architectural strategy for a multifunctional development located next to the iconic MAXXI Museum (Museo nazionale delle arti del XXI secolo) in Rome, Italy. Rather than proposing a conventional building, the project envisions a holistic urban intervention—one that seamlessly merges architecture, landscape, culture, and sustainability to create a new civic landmark within the historic Flaminio district.

Designed as both an architectural statement and an urban connector, the proposal aims to strengthen the relationship between the museum, surrounding streets, and public spaces, creating a vibrant environment for culture, community, and everyday urban life.

Reimagining Urban Connectivity

At the heart of the proposal lies the idea of integration—both architectural and social. Studio Symbiosis approaches the project as a response to the complex urban fabric surrounding the MAXXI Museum, proposing a design that enhances connectivity between cultural institutions, neighbourhood streets, and open public areas.

The masterplan consists of two interconnected elements:

  • Building A – a multifunctional architectural volume

  • System B – a landscape transformation along Via Masaccio

Building A is conceived as a compact yet layered structure that accommodates a diverse range of cultural and functional spaces. Its geometry emerges from advanced computational design strategies, allowing the building to respond intelligently to site constraints while maintaining a strong architectural identity.

At the same time, the design subtly references traditional Roman architectural language, ensuring that the new intervention respects the historical context of the city.

Multifunctional Spaces for Culture and Community

The program of Building A reflects the evolving needs of contemporary cultural institutions. The building integrates:

  • Art storage and preservation facilities

  • Advanced technical laboratories

  • Café and social gathering spaces

  • A landscaped rooftop terrace open to the public

The rooftop garden becomes one of the project’s most distinctive features. Overlooking the MAXXI Museum and the surrounding urban landscape, this elevated green space creates a tranquil destination for visitors and residents alike—encouraging reflection, dialogue, and cultural exchange within the city.

Landscape as an Urban Connector

The second component of the proposal, System B, extends the architectural concept into the surrounding landscape. Along Via Masaccio, the project introduces a redesigned urban corridor that blurs the boundaries between the museum precinct and the neighbouring community.

Curvilinear pathways, green spaces, and pedestrian-friendly connections transform the area into a welcoming public realm where culture, leisure, and daily life intersect. By integrating landscape with architecture, the project strengthens the relationship between the city’s cultural infrastructure and its urban fabric.

Sustainability at the Core

Environmental responsibility is deeply embedded within the design strategy. The project embraces circular economy principles, prioritizing the reuse of materials from on-site demolition and implementing low-carbon construction methods.

Key sustainability features include:

  • A robust steel structural framework

  • Renewable X-Lam laminated timber components

  • Geothermal heat pump systems

  • Integrated solar panels to reduce energy consumption

Together, these strategies minimize both embodied carbon and operational energy demands, aligning the project with contemporary sustainability standards.

A Vision for the Future of Cultural Architecture

The Rome Competition proposal by Studio Symbiosis goes beyond the boundaries of a traditional architectural competition entry. It envisions a multifunctional civic space that strengthens cultural identity, enhances urban connectivity, and prioritizes environmental responsibility.

By weaving together architecture, landscape, and sustainability, the design offers a new model for contemporary cultural infrastructure—one that respects Rome’s extraordinary heritage while confidently looking toward its future.