Perugia Newsstand Transformed into Red Oak Reading Kiosk
Giuseppe Arezzi reconfigures a historic urban kiosk into a multifunctional community reading hub.
1Historic Kiosk Adaptive Reuse
Edicola 518, located on the Sant’Ercolano staircase in Perugia, has been transformed from a traditional commercial newsstand into a public reading hub. This project, led by designer Giuseppe Arezzi, celebrates the site's tenth anniversary. It was realized through the Laboratorio di Creatività Contemporanea open call, supported by the Italian Ministry of Culture.
2Chromatic Urban Intervention
The project preserves the original exterior envelope of the kiosk while applying a striking monochromatic red finish. This bold color choice creates a sharp visual contrast against the historic stone staircase. By maintaining the original shell, the design respects the site's heritage while signaling its new function as a contemporary cultural landmark.
3Stepped Oak Interior Design
Arezzi replaced the conventional vendor counter with a stepped, multifunctional furniture installation crafted from lacquered red oak. This interior structure hides technical compartments while providing integrated bench seating for visitors. The design prioritizes spatial permeability, removing physical barriers to encourage interaction between the kiosk and the surrounding public urban environment.
4Integrated Public Amenities
The micro-architecture incorporates a stainless-steel fountain at its core, providing free drinking water to pedestrians navigating the stairs. This addition shifts the kiosk's purpose from a purely commercial stall to a vital piece of civic infrastructure. The integration of water access enhances the site's utility as a resting point for the community.
5Modular Display and Seating
Window frames have been re-engineered to function as external display racks for independent magazines and art books. Additionally, the project introduces Ambo, a 20-centimeter-high modular stool-bookstand developed with the Seed Festival. These units are designed to match the elevation of the urban stairs, serving as both portable seating and angled display surfaces.
6Extended Public Realm Access
The design includes an exterior platform that extends onto the historic steps, ensuring seating remains accessible even when the kiosk is closed. By extending the program into the public realm, the intervention fosters a continuous relationship with the urban fabric. This approach ensures the space remains functional and engaging throughout the evening hours.
7Redefining the Newsstand Typology
Giuseppe Arezzi views the kiosk as a versatile piece of furniture rather than just a building. The design philosophy focuses on preserving the daily ritual of the newsstand while updating its purpose for modern users. People now pause at the site to process information through reading and rest instead of purchasing daily papers.
8Civic Impact of Design
This intervention demonstrates how small-scale architecture can revitalize public spaces through thoughtful material and functional choices. By blending historical context with contemporary needs, the project creates a sustainable model for urban amenities. The successful reconfiguration of Edicola 518 highlights the potential for design to foster community interaction in dense, historic settings.