Industrial Heritage and Architectural Technology: a Critical Study of the Ferrania-3M “Nuova Direzione” Office Building (1953-1955)

This paper presents a critical analysis of the design, technology, and construction of the “Nuova Direzione” office building at the former Ferrania-3M film factory (Cairo Montenotte, Savona), built between 1953 and 1955 as the new headquarters of Italy’s sole producer of photographic, cinematic, and radiographic film. Conceived as a mid-century modern structure facing the historic factory offices, it responded to evolving spatial, organisational, and technological needs during the company’s Second Post-War expansion. Designed and constructed by the factory’s in-house technical office, it exemplifies integrated internal expertise in both technical development and the architectural expression of the corporate identity. Through an in-depth analysis of archival construction close-out documents, digital surveys, and on-site inspections, the construction process has been reconstructed, identifying materials, techniques, and components within the broader framework of mid-20th-century technological practices. The building combines rational design with solutions for indoor comfort, employing passive strategies such as floor heating, natural ventilation, and balanced lighting. These features highlight the central role of office spaces in industrial complexes. Its state of conservation and the completeness of its documentary sources offer crucial insights into mid-20th-century construction history, which are useful in supporting informed strategies for its conservation and reuse.