Architectural and Functional Refurbishment of the Passenger Terminal at the Port of Trapani
Arch. ANNA GARRETTO
The project is primarily a restyling intervention to update a structure dating from the 1990s, which is in very poor condition and no longer meets the changing needs of tourist accommodation in terms of size and function. The intervention therefore aims to revive activity and bring new functions back to this important stretch of the city’s coastline, while providing Trapani with a modern passenger terminal equipped with essential facilities to serve the growing number of visitors. The design presents a coherent whole, with particular attention paid to its appearance.
The building’s main entrance is on Via Regina Elena, accessed via a dedicated pedestrian entrance, separate from the two vehicle entrances, accessible to people with disabilities and sheltered by a lightweight metal-and-wood canopy. The building’s main façade has been modified without altering the primary masonry structure. An overlaid expanded-metal screen shades the rooms facing it and creates a distinctive, striking presence in the city, clearly identifying the main entrance.
The 200 m² waiting room, with seating for 100, was created by covering the original central courtyard with a metal structure and glass. A metal brise-soleil will shade the glazed roof, allowing natural light in while screening solar radiation. At the far end of the room, there will be a 9 m² desk for check-in and staff.
