Historic shops in Turin: a study for a reinterpretation

This thesis project explores the architectural and cultural significance of 19th century commercial establishments in Turin, Italy. There is a particular focus on the evolution, typologies and urban context of these historic shops, especially along Via Po, as a key commercial axis in the city’s development. Combining bibliographic and archival research, on-site documentation, and a historical analysis, the study examines the transformation of commercial spaces in response to changing social dynamics during the long nineteenth century. The thesis project concludes with an architectural intervention proposal for a shop on Via Po, which has lost its values and identity over time. This intends to align the preservation of its lost heritage with contemporary urban and commercial needs. The proposed design framework is structured by six main actions: remove, protect, reinterpret, adapt, showcase, and attract, allowing a revitalization of a commercial space. This project highlights the potential of heritage-informed design to uphold the identity and character of historic sites while projecting their relevance in a modern context.