Milano Cortina 2026: Athletes' Village Completed Early, A Sustainable Marvel
The Milano Cortina 2026 Organizing Committee has announced the completion of the athletes' village, 30 days ahead of schedule. The project, developed by Coima and designed by SOM, is a sustainable marvel inspired by Milan's architecture.
The Olympic Village Plaza, situated in Porta Romana, Milan, is a testament to sustainable design principles. SOM's modular framework and prefabricated facade panels have significantly reduced embodied carbon. The ground level boasts commercial and community spaces, terraces, vertical gardens, and courtyards for gathering. The surrounding area acts as a neighborhood square, with easy access to shops, bars, restaurants, and farmers' markets. The village consists of six new residential buildings and two historic structures transformed into residences. It features 40,000 sq m of community spaces, including green areas and three sports courts for basketball and padel. Post-Games, the buildings will be repurposed as Italy's largest affordable student housing development.
Handed over to the Milano Cortina Foundation after 30 months of development, the athletes' village is ready to host athletes for the 2026 Winter Olympics and Paralympics. The project's timely completion and sustainable design are a testament to Coima's commitment and SOM's innovative approach.
