AkzoNobel Partners with Genoa to Preserve Historic Architecture Through New Color Plan

AkzoNobel has partnered with the Municipality of Genoa to develop a comprehensive color plan aimed at preserving the city's architectural heritage and distinctive urban character. The three-year initiative, led by the company's Sikkens brand, will primarily focus on the historic Old Port area, where many buildings date back to the 18th century.

The project will establish technical guidelines outlining the approved colors and materials for future exterior restoration and renovation works. The plan is designed to ensure consistency in color selection, improve landscape quality, and maintain compatibility with the city's historic surroundings.

“Genoa has a very strong identity which goes back hundreds of years,” explains Simone Mazzoli, Commercial Director of AkzoNobel in Italy. “Together with the municipality, we’re using our expertise to help strengthen the role of color as an identifying element of the city, while contributing to the preservation and enhancement of Genoa’s historic urban landscape.”

Francesca Coppola, Genoa’s Municipal Councilor for Urban Planning, adds: “The goal is not to define a rigid model, but to provide a useful tool to accompany future interventions on facades with greater attention to urban quality, consistency with the historical context and enhancement of existing features.”

As part of the initiative, AkzoNobel will conduct an extensive historical and analytical study of Genoa's traditional building colors, construction techniques, materials, and application methods. Leveraging its expertise in architectural coatings and color design, the company will develop practical, scientifically based tools to support architects, designers, technicians, and local authorities in restoration projects.

The partnership is expected to contribute to the long-term redevelopment of Genoa's historic center while enhancing the city's cultural identity and international image.

“We’ve divided the part of the city covered by the plan into three areas and will work in stages,” continues Mazzoli. “We’re starting with the area at the front of the harbor, which we’ll deliver this year, and hope to complete all three phases by the end of 2027.”

Sikkens, Italy's leading professional paint brand, has previously developed more than 20 color plans for cities and towns across the country, including Turin, Naples, Portofino, Florence, and several districts of Rome.

Source: AkzoNobel