Sociological Analysis of Current Uses An Example of Social Research in Support of Architectural Conservation

The Collegi designed by Giancarlo De Carlo are an example of architecture where the social dimension plays a key role. However, social change and new needs emerged over the last decades are a challenge for De Carlo’s original project. Hence, the regulatory, technical and functional frame of Collegi’s spaces needs to be reconsidered. These issues are of focal importance in drafting a conservation plan that aims to give new value to this site by outlining guidelines for refurbishment and for adapting spaces to emerging needs. This chapter exposes the results of a social research campaign built on a Post–Occupancy Evaluation approach that focuses on the users of the Collegi and their daily lives, providing a picture of their past and current experiences. In presenting our findings, we will start from a comparison of uses that have changed over time, and later focus on the current uses, highlighting some specific aspects, strengths, and problems.