VIRTUAL London.

Abstract

European cities can be thought of as the outcome of the juxtaposition of successive layers dating back from different historical periods. The latest layer, observable from above, is a complex landscape that is partially unplanned and undiscovered (Ambrosini, 2021). This unresolved layer (Medio, 2012) represents an underutilized resource for experimenting with solutions to contemporary urban challenges, spanning climate adaptation, sustainable urban growth, and social inclusivity (MVRDV, 2021). In this broad scenario hospitality architectures, in particular hotels, have always played a pivotal role in redefining approaches to designing the urban roofscape. The research embarks on a historical journey, tracing the evolution of this still unresolved layer of European cities throughout the 20th century. Pioneering projects, ranging from Unité d’Habitation habitable roof to Giò Ponti’s expressionist rooftop pool for the Hotel Royal in Naples and SOM’s rooftop hall of the Terrace Plaza in Cincinnati, among others, serve as the backdrop to this exploration. Transitioning to contemporary context, focal points emerge among European ‘tourist cities’ (d’Eramo, 2017), which present important socio-economic issues, encapsulated in the complex interplay between visitors and locals. Paradigmatic case studies are brought into focus, ranging from Zoku’s collaborative rooftop workspace in Amsterdam to the exclusive swimming pool of The Social Hub in Florence, overlooking Brunelleschi’s dome. The primary objective is to unravel the transformation of the urban roofscape over the past century, establishing the foundation for a comprehensive examination of the different meanings attributed to roof space. Furthermore, a critical taxonomy of rooftop design in hospitality architecture is proposed, aiming to provide practical guidelines for reshaping our (tourist) cities’ fifth façade in more liveable, inclusive, and socially sustainable manner.