A Pavilion for Porsche

By Redazione The Plan - 10 December 2018

The Salone Auto e Moto d’Epoca held in Padua is a long-standing venue for classic car enthusiasts. Established 30 years ago as a vintage car trade show, it has developed into a major international event attracting over 4,000 car manufacturers and a huge inter-generational public of enthusiasts, collectors and sector professionals. A consolidated feature of the Salone for four years now, Porsche Italia, the Italian subsidiary of the famous German brand, became one of the major players at the last edition held last October (25-28). A key initiative involving the public was the “A Pavilion for Porsche” contest organized by The Plan for Porsche Italia. Open to design and architecture students and professionals under 35, the call was for a trade-show stand concept design that would be a strong communication tool for the brand. A great success, the call had some 72 submissions. The winning entry, considered by the Jury both ingenious and fit-for-purpose, was “Looking for a Reflection” by a practice from Catania, Sicily - Linea T Studio. The stand comprises a central wedge-shaped volume with mirror finishes serving as the backdrop to a display of seven cars and the enclosure for other functions. As well as offering views of the exhibits from many different angles at the same time, the reflections give a heightened sense of space. The slightly tilted mirrors produce a highly dynamic effect. A three-sided welcome desk is located in center of the stand. As required by the brief, the project also includes a relaxation lounge area equipped with two drive simulators, a great draw for young visitors. As Pietro Innocenti, Porsche Italia’s General Manager, notes, the German carmaker is investing in young people and their youthful enthusiasm, promoting training courses in partnership with technical institutes. It has also launched the eSport Carrera Cup, the first online single-brand sim racer championship open to contestants over 16. The...