Former Passalacqua barracks: conversion into a new cultural hub

In the City of Novara, Orbyta Engineering carried out an ambitious energy upgrading project aimed at transforming a former barracks into a youth community center and cultural hub. The main objective was to improve energy efficiency and ensure the comfort of the spaces, while preserving the historical and social importance of the building.

The structure consists of a central block with three above-ground floors, flanked by two newly constructed side blocks designed to accommodate public performance and cultural activities. This intervention not only improves the building’s energy performance but also redefines its function, transforming it into a modern and sustainable hub for the community.

The upgrading included the complete replacement of the existing systems with a VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow) system, a state-of-the-art technology capable of operating in both heating and cooling. This system consists of:

• 3 outdoor units for refrigerant distribution.
• 50 indoor units including floor fan coils and ceiling cassettes.
• Advanced control systems for centralized management of indoor units, improving efficiency and comfort.

This system provides high operational flexibility, allowing operation to be adapted to the specific needs of each environment.

The domestic hot water system was completely renovated by installing a 25 kW air-to-water heat pump combined with an 800-liter storage tank. This solution makes it possible to reduce energy consumption and emissions, while ensuring a constant and reliable supply.

Another key intervention involved the design of a new pressurization system, which is necessary to ensure adequate water pressure for even the least favored users.

The system, designed with modern technology, includes:

• 2 variable-speed electric pumps, which optimize energy consumption,
• pressure monitors to constantly monitor values,
• membrane autoclave and a storage tank to ensure system stability.

With these solutions, the water pressure remains constant between 1.5 and 5 bar, improving the overall operation of the equipment and optimizing the footprint due to the compactness of the system.

he project was preceded by a detailed survey of the former barracks area, carried out with the help of a drone to obtain a precise mapping of the structure and the surrounding context. This made it possible to define a comprehensive feasibility study, useful for optimizing the subsequent design phases.

The design was developed with a focus on three key aspects:

• plant engineering: advanced systems for heating, cooling, DHW and pressurization.
• acoustics: solutions to ensure optimal sound comfort during public performance activities.
• Fire prevention: regulatory compliance with integrated safety measures.

To enhance the value of the intervention, energy certification (A.P.E.) was obtained and the ITACA protocol was applied, which evaluates the building’s environmental and energy performance according to specific criteria.

Through the adoption of innovative technologies and sustainable solutions, the facility will become a landmark for the community, promoting culture, aggregation and environmental sustainability. This project reflects a commitment to a more efficient and inclusive future, redefining the role of historic buildings in the urban context.