Palazzo del Ghiaccio
Palazzo del Ghiaccio Student House will open in July 2026 and is a project by Fondazione Carispezia, which acquired the building from Crédit Agricole Italia to return it to the city with a new purpose.
The history
Historical Photographic Archive of the Municipality of La Spezia – “S. Fregoso” Regional Ligurian Media Library
Built between 1920 and 1923 at the intersection of Via Sprugola and Via Colombo, in the heart of La Spezia, Palazzo del Ghiaccio stands as one of the most significant examples of local modernism. In a historical period marked by strong urban and industrial growth, it was conceived as a response to a fundamental need: ensuring food preservation at a time when domestic refrigeration was not yet widespread. The Società Anonima Industria del Freddo therefore promoted the construction of a true “factory of cold,” capable of guaranteeing food safety and improved hygienic conditions for a growing population.
The project was entrusted to architect Franco Oliva, who succeeded in transforming a technical building into an architectural work of great expressive value. The building takes the form of an imposing reinforced-concrete volume, characterized by a strong vertical thrust, with pillars punctuated by tall glazed openings that visually lighten the structure. The use of concrete is not merely functional, but becomes a distinctive aesthetic feature, while the articulated roof reflects the complexity of the building’s original interior spaces.
What makes the building even more recognizable are the bas-reliefs by sculptor Augusto Magli, placed at the base of the pillars and depicting polar animals: an example of “speaking architecture” that visually conveyed the building’s purpose even to those who could not read. This dialogue between art and function helped give dignity and identity to an industrial structure, elevating it into a symbol of the city’s modernity.
As the decades passed and domestic refrigerators became widespread, the building’s original function came to an end. However, unlike many industrial structures destined for demolition, Palazzo del Ghiaccio underwent an adaptive reuse intervention that ensured its preservation. In 1976, the building was acquired by Cassa di Risparmio della Spezia and converted into a bank headquarters: the interiors were adapted to meet new functional needs, while the exterior was preserved in its stylistic integrity.
This ability to adapt over time without losing its identity makes Palazzo del Ghiaccio today a virtuous example of dynamic urban heritage. Its history shows how architectural quality can span different eras and functions, preserving its value intact while continuing to engage with the city and its inhabitants.
The redevelopment project
The redevelopment project will transform Palazzo del Ghiaccio into a modern university residence, maintaining a balance between respect for the historic structure and functional innovation. The interior spaces will offer comfortable and versatile environments: the ground floor is dedicated to social interaction and shared use, with study areas, relaxation spaces and a community food area. The upper floors will house the rooms, arranged as single and double rooms with private en-suite or separate bathrooms, designed to ensure comfort and privacy.
The rooms will be furnished with functional IKEA furniture suited to a youthful style.
The outdoor area will also be enhanced, with pedestrianization works and the expansion of public spaces. Overall, the project aims to create a dynamic and welcoming environment, capable of supporting not only students’ academic path, but also their personal and social growth, and will be developed with a focus on sustainability and attention to ecological and environmental impact.
I’m interested in a room.
How can I apply?
If you are a university student, to be assigned a bed place from October 2026 to July 2027, you can apply through the “PdG Student House” call for applications, open from 6 May to 31 July, until all places have been assigned.
If you are a young traveler visiting during the summer and would like to stay at PdG, book your room.