Transformation of a disused slaughterhouse in Casoria (Naples) for market destination

In semiurban areas ancient buildings have been often neglected, mainly those which were dedicated to various industrial activities, now disused. The paper presents a research project for the requalification of such an architecture, specifically located in Casoria, near Naples, once hosting a slaughterhouse, and now hypothetically adapt for new actions. The objective of such a studied proposal is to consider the chance of exploiting the potential of reusing this ancient building for a new destination: a public market. The chance of employment the already good bioclimatic behaviour of the existing built characters is investigated, being an old fabric in stone and wood. Moreover implementing the building performance by means of new energy-saving devices for new users’ better comfort conditions is proposed. The methodology employed for carrying out the proposal is made up in three different steps, the first being the most accurate and deep analysis of the existing conditions in the context, as far as both cultural and natural environments are concerned; the second is the selection of a strategy aimed at enhancing the existing behaviour and performance of the built elements, as far as their technologies and materials are concerned, and the last is the proposal of various design actions aimed at improving the comfort and at the same time enhancing the identity of the place, from both the point of view of climatic essence and local tradition. The result can possibly aid for providing again, to the cultural good, the value, the dignity and the aesthetic meaning so as to become accepted and attracting for the social community.