YAC Competition - Art Prison

The project is articulated into four main areas: at the first floor the fortress is conceived as a meeting place for customers and experts in art, while the second floor houses artistic exhibitions. Special events can be held above the northern terrace, whereas the southern one is specifically dedicated to the guests of the castle. All around the castle, a garden stimulate a relaxing and pleasant relation with the surrounding nature: intimate areas are alternated with breathtaking views, with miradors looking towards the landscape. On a lower level, a cluster of bungalows is realized: the concept is aesthetically inspired by Favignana's hypogeal gardens and like stone slabs they appear like lean on the hill. On the other side of the castle, a three-levels restaurant opens to the landscape and, directly connected also with the bungalows, it is designed to welcome guests from the castle and visiting citizens from Favignana. A bit lower, two ramparts break forth across the slope coils connecting the city with the castle: they allow visitors to find some rest and to discover and appreciate the artworks they defend inside themselves. The entire project aims to represent a new citadel, where temporary visitors can live an inspirational experience inside art and nature.