Story
From an early 20th-century inn to a place of conviviality and hospitality, Il Platano keeps its history alive by blending tradition and renewal.
The establishment was founded in the early 1900s as an inn with rooms for travelers passing through the Piano di Magadino. In the 1970s and ’90s, a two-story villa and a prefabricated pavilion were added, which became the first bocce court.
Over the years, the bocce court lost its original function and was transformed into a restaurant. Changes in management led to the community drifting away from that historic gathering place. What remains are the memories of generations united by games and laughter in the shade of the plane tree.
In 2022, a decision was made to breathe new life into this historic place, restoring it to its former glory. Thanks to collaboration with industry professionals, the redevelopment focused on sustainability and community, transforming Il Platano into a modern project deeply rooted in tradition. The Martinelli and Rossi studio skillfully integrated contemporary elements without altering the authentic soul of the structure.
The renovation of Il Platano is the result of a careful recycling operation. Materials recovered from construction sites, museums, and demolitions were reinvented into unique furnishings. The project was carried out thanks to collaboration with the Gabbiano and Midada Foundations.
Il Platano will be the heart of a project focused on community, training, and inclusion, dedicated to helping young people enter the workforce. Thanks to the collaboration with 1908 Group, the youth will be supported by the staff to learn the art of a historic profession, in a welcoming environment that values human connection.
Little curiosities
The future is in reuse: our sustainable project
Circular economy and reuse architecture
The project of Il Platano is based on a rigorous circular economy approach: materials recovered from abandoned construction sites, art exhibitions, and urban demolitions have been transformed into new furnishings, preserving historical memory and reducing waste.
Unique and sustainable design
Thanks to the contribution of Martinelli and Rossi studio, reclaimed materials such as industrial doors, vintage windows, and floors from the MASI Museum have been skillfully integrated into the interior spaces, giving the B&B an authentic character that respects local roots.
Social Impact and Inclusion
In collaboration with the Il Gabbiano Foundation and the Midada project, Il Platano welcomes young people in professional training, involving them in daily operations and creating a concrete bridge between environmental sustainability and social responsibility.
Urban Redevelopment and Local Identity
The complex has given Quartino a new multifunctional square, enhancing the existing heritage such as the historic bocce court and returning to the community a space for gathering and socializing, a tangible symbol of sustainable development.
Behind the Scenes
A journey filled with passion, restoration, and creativity. Discover how every detail of Il Platano was designed, rebuilt, and transformed to give new life to a historic space.
The flooring of the Platano room comes from the MASI Museum in Lugano, recovered and reimagined to create a unique environment. Every step tells a story of culture and rebirth.
The windows of the Platano room come from the Emmy Residence in Lugano, saved from demolition and carefully repurposed. A detail that preserves memory and sustainability.
The doors of the property come from the Emmy Residence in Lugano, salvaged and reused with new meaning. A restoration that speaks of memory and rebirth.
The pre-existing metalwork has been recovered and enhanced, preserving its original structural elements. An intervention that combines respect for history and sustainability.
The pressure reducers, sourced from the former IRB in Bellinzona, have been recovered and reimagined as design elements. A detail that adds history and character to the Platano spaces.
The chairs were recovered and restored by Emanuela together with the young people from Muoviti and Midada, becoming unique pieces of furniture. An act that combines sustainability and inclusion.
Would you like to contribute to our project of restoration and sustainability?
Contact us if you have materials or ideas to donate: every gesture makes a difference.