Casa Testori takes an important step towards accessibility and inclusivity: construction has begun on an elevator that will provide access to the first floor, which is currently only reachable via a double-flight staircase. Alongside this intervention, a restroom will be renovated and equipped with fixtures and aids for individuals with physical disabilities or conditions that limit their autonomy. The project, designed by architect Lorenzo Margiotta, plans for the elevator to be installed within two service rooms, thus minimally impacting the interior spaces of the House.
Casa Testori, the former home of writer and artist Giovanni Testori (1923–1993), is spread over two levels: the ground floor is dedicated to temporary exhibitions focused on young contemporary creativity. The first floor, on the other hand, houses the valuable archive, the art library, and five exhibition rooms dedicated to showcasing the important legacy of Giovanni Testori’s work. The first floor is therefore the beating heart of Casa Testori and serves as a key reference point for researchers, students, and scholars. Making it accessible to everyone is a non-deferrable priority. Over the years, Casa Testori has welcomed many school groups, from kindergarten to high school, and in the future, it aims to further increase their participation. Securing the necessary accessibility aids will allow for educational programming with schools to be reimagined without any limitations on target audiences.
In early 2025, Casa Testori won the “Cultura diffusa” call for proposals with the project “Collezioniamoci” launched by Fondazione Cariplo, which will cover 70% of the structural costs. To raise the remaining funds needed for this crucial project, a crowdfunding campaign has been launched—one of the most effective ways to support social and cultural initiatives led by nonprofit organizations like Casa Testori Associazione Culturale ETS. This fundraising effort is an opportunity to actively support Casa Testori’s cultural offerings and to initiate a new phase of planning that is more accessible and diverse. The goal is also to spark co-design processes with disability experts, local associations and centers, school educators, and young people involved in school-to-work transition programs, in order to create inclusive cultural experiences and foster dialogue among diverse audiences.
The active participation of our audience is essential. We look forward to building a renewed sense of community together, free of barriers, by coming together within Casa Testori. Thanks to this valuable and unique opportunity, the House can become fully accessible, giving concrete form to an open and civically engaged vision of culture.
Learn how to support us on forfunding!