A historic site in Milan has been transformed into a modern residential development. Washington Building combines premium living with energy-efficient technologies.
MasterTherm heat pumps form a key part of the energy system of the Washington Building complex. A total of nine MasterTherm ground-source heat pump units, distributed by the Italian company Dynergy Srl, were used in the project. The installation provides energy-efficient heating and a high level of comfort for both residential and leisure areas of the entire development.
Installed within the project:
The system provides heating and comfort for:
95 apartments and penthouses
3 standalone villas
SPA area with swimming pool
Fitness center
Transformation of a historic factory into a modern residence
The Washington Building project was developed between 2020 and 2023 through a large-scale renovation, partial demolition, and reconstruction of the former Veglia Borletti industrial site.
The entire complex offers more than 15,000 m² of floor area. The architectural design was created by DFA Architetti, while the development was carried out by FCMA in cooperation with private investors. The total investment volume reached approximately CZK 2.5 billion.
Premium living with exclusive amenities
The project includes a wide range of residential layouts — from compact apartments and family flats to luxury penthouses with terraces and urban villas featuring private patios.
The complex features three underground levels with garages, technical facilities, and storage areas. In addition to residential spaces, the ground floor also includes amenities for residents such as a fitness center, SPA facilities, lounge areas, and a dedicated delivery room.
The architectural concept created a spacious internal courtyard. Newly added sections follow the character of the original historic architecture, resulting in a “C”-shaped complex with five above-ground floors and two recessed upper levels.
Preserving the industrial character
Officine Fratelli Borletti was an important industrial company founded by the Borletti family in 1897. The Milan factory complex dates back to 1912–1916. Initially focused on the production of clocks and alarm clocks, the company later expanded into tachometers, dashboard instruments, and other automotive industry components.
Over time, it became one of Milan’s industrial symbols of the 20th century. For this reason, the redevelopment aimed to preserve the site’s characteristic appearance, including its brick façades and large industrial-style windows, carefully blending them with contemporary architecture and modern design elements.
