Prior Ecclesia – A 16th-Century Church Transformed into a Contemporary Office

In the heart of Alcamo’s historic center, Studio DiDeA has reimagined a deconsecrated 16th-century church into a contemporary office space that masterfully bridges history and modernity. This office renovation project—titled Prior Ecclesia—embodies the studio’s refined approach to adaptive reuse and architectural preservation, where historic memory is not only honored but reinterpreted through innovative design strategies.

Historic Preservation Meets Minimalist Intervention

Originally a sacred ecclesiastical structure, the former church now emerges as a bright, functional workplace that retains its historical character. Rather than concealing the building’s aged charm, the architects chose to highlight its raw masonry, vaulted forms, and monumental spatial scale. The intervention introduces a robust reinforced concrete framework, anchored by a central pillar, which discretely organizes the volume into four operational zones while supporting the newly defined vertical arrangement.

A Light-Filled, Transparent Workspace

At the core of the renovation lies a dramatic spatial move: the removal of an existing ceiling to expose the full double-height volume of the original structure. This not only amplifies the verticality of the space but also allows natural light to flood the interior through a newly installed skylight, transforming the atmosphere into one of clarity and calm. Internally, glass partitions delineate the program while maintaining visual continuity and openness.

Every design gesture supports a singular vision: to create an office where light, materiality, and history converse fluently. Former architectural elements—columns, niches, and arches—have been reinterpreted as functional built-in storage units and surfaces that enhance both usability and spatial coherence.

A Dialogue Between Past and Present

What distinguishes Prior Ecclesia is the respectful juxtaposition between ancient and contemporary. The minimal, almost monastic interiors allow the original character of the church to shine through. Rather than compete with the past, the new elements work in harmony, establishing a dialogue between eras that is both aesthetically refined and emotionally resonant.

This project not only showcases the transformative potential of adaptive reuse in architecture but also reaffirms the relevance of historic spaces in modern urban life. Studio DiDeA has succeeded in crafting a sustainable office environment that is rooted in context yet forward-looking in its spatial philosophy.v

All Photographs are works of Anna Positano