OpenZone Towers by AMDL CIRCLE: A Landmark of Scientific Innovation and Sustainable Architecture in Mil

The OpenZone Towers by AMDL CIRCLE represent a bold step forward in the evolution of scientific campuses, blending cutting-edge design, sustainable strategies, and collaborative work environments. Located in Bresso, Milan, this 26,700 m² architectural complex completes the expanding OpenZone campus—an innovation hub dedicated to life sciences, biomedical research, and scientific entrepreneurship.

Designed by Michele De Lucchi and the AMDL CIRCLE team, the project embodies the belief that architecture can strengthen human connection, accelerate knowledge exchange, and become a catalyst for scientific progress. This philosophy shapes every element of the two iconic towers and the adjacent Green Circle pavilion.

Architecture as a Vector for Human Connection

Inspired by Stephen Hawking’s reflections on human encounters, AMDL CIRCLE approached the project with a mission: create architecture that encourages collaboration, supports research, and enhances the human experience. The result is a distinctive, recognizable campus designed to promote interaction between professionals in the health, biotech, and life sciences sectors.

Twin Towers for Research & Innovation

The OpenZone Towers consist of:

• Tower 1 – 13 floors (including 2 underground), reaching 45 meters
• Tower 2 – 10 floors (including 2 underground), reaching 32 meters

These linear, rectangular volumes accommodate a mix of high-tech laboratories, flexible offices, and innovation spaces, functioning as architectural “outposts” that connect Parco Nord’s natural landscape with advanced scientific environments.

Symbolically referencing historical frontier structures, the towers mark an entry point to progress—inviting collaboration, discovery, and urban transformation.

A Sculpted Façade of Glass Shingles

One of the most striking features is the white opacified glass shingle façade, designed to visually unify the two structures and create a sculptural identity.

Key façade characteristics

• Checkerboard shingle arrangement producing dynamic reflections
• 80 cm façade offset enabling maintenance walkways
• A rhythmic pattern of solids and voids offering natural shading
• A visually light envelope that glows subtly throughout the day

This innovative skin elevates the towers into a singular architectural statement within the Milanese urban context.

The Green Circle Pavilion: A Living, Breathing Workspace

Adjacent to the towers is the two-story Green Circle pavilion, designed as a flexible, nature-integrated hub for researchers and innovators.

Pavilion highlights

• Fully glazed volume with a steel and wood structural system
• Second skin made of steel cables supporting climbing plants
• Interior bathed in filtered natural light from skylights and vegetation
• Open-plan layout encouraging collaboration and adaptability

As the plants grow seasonally, the pavilion transforms—embodying a living architecture that connects people to landscape, wellness, and creativity.

The Elevated Green Podium

All three buildings rise from a shared green podium, which hosts:

• Two underground and two above-ground floors
• Parking, technical rooms, and shared circulation spaces
• A lush green roof that further integrates nature into the design

The podium’s metal-rod façade allows natural light to permeate while masking parking areas. Inside, a wooden-finished reception volume anchors a warm, inviting atmosphere, complete with a monumental staircase that doubles as an informal auditorium.

A Campus Designed for Well-Being, Sustainability, and Future Growth

The OpenZone Towers reinforce AMDL CIRCLE’s commitment to:

• Human-centered architecture
• Sustainable building strategies
• Adaptive, future-ready research environments
• Integration of nature with technological spaces

By blending innovation, ecology, and community, the project advances OpenZone’s mission to transform research into real-world impact.

All the photographs are works of Rasmus Hjortshøj