Large-scale supply for the new campus of the Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, developed from the former Garibaldi barracks
Armchairs, study benches, and seating by LAMM for the ambitious urban expansion of the Milanese University
In the heart of Milan, opposite the magnificent Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio, the former Garibaldi barracks is being transformed to accommodate the services and educational activities of the Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore.
The redevelopment project, led by the University as part of the agreement signed with Agenzia del Demanio and with Ministries and Local Authorities, and developed by Studio Beretta Associati, with Redesco Progetti for the structural work and Tekser for the systems, in collaboration with the Archaeological, Fine Arts, and Landscape Superintendency for the Metropolitan City, stands at the forefront in terms of quality and design. The project blends conservation, sustainability, and technological innovation.
A first phase of the large-scale redevelopment project was completed in September 2025, making the wing on the Via Santa Valeria side, now Polo San Francesco, available, equal to approximately one-fifth of the entire complex. This phase includes 36 new classrooms for around 1,800 students, along with shared student spaces.
For the setup of most of the classrooms, the University opted for LAMM products: in the first spaces, already delivered for teaching purposes, the E4000 study benches, L213 armchairs, and HL3 chairs have been installed.
The integrated system of seats and tables E4000 – Lucci & Orlandini combines essentiality, practicality, and strength. This system ‘equips’ and enhances the functionality of eight classrooms on the new campus. Arranged in straight rows on a flat surface, the study benches feature a folding writing surface in white bilaminate, with a “soft closing” mechanism (Patented). The front panel for the first rows, the seat, and the backrest are finished in ABET oak laminate. The electrification system allows for integrated power outlets: technology but also sustainability. Wood materials used for the supply are, in fact, FSC® C134805 certified, sourced from responsibly managed forests and other controlled material.
For the large 150-seat classroom, the project selected the versatile L213 – R&D LAMM armchair. The elegant and linear design blends seamlessly with the historic surroundings, defined by the succession of wooden trusses. Here, the seats, installed in straight rows on a flat surface, are in the version with straight sides, upholstered in beige faux leather and with a semi-matte silver-painted frame. The armchairs in the front rows are equipped with black anti-panic tablets, while those in the middle rows have tip-up tables with cushioned closing mechanisms in the backrest, with an increased depth (35 cm). Each armchair is also fitted with a power outlet and features row and seat identification markers.
The supply is completed by the highly resistant and durable seats HL3 – Lucci & Orlandini, available in two versions: one upholstered and covered in beige faux leather and the other in grey oak wood. Like the study benches, also the chairs and armchairs are made using FSC® C134805 certified wood, sourced from responsibly managed forests and other controlled material.
Project name: Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore – New Polo San Francesco
Location: Milan, Italy
Client: Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore
Architect: Beretta Associates
Year: 2025
Supply LAMM: E4000 study benches – Lucci & Orlandini | L213 armchairs – R&D Lamm | HL3 chairs – Lucci & Orlandini
Photographs: Mauro Davoli