The PhD course “Beyond the Surface: Approaches, Interpretations, Interventions” examines the role of surfaces within restoration design. The course is structured into four modules of 4.5 hours each and one final 2-hour module, organized around three main thematic areas. The first thematic area addresses the surface as the locus of the restoration project, exploring contemporary theoretical and scientific approaches oriented toward the maximum conservation of the architectural artifact, including the preservation of patina and decay, in continuity with the Ruskinian tradition and as an alternative to the “as it was, where it was” approach. This section will also present experimental research projects and activities related to the development of restoration products carried out by the DAD Department within the framework of public-private collaborations. The second thematic area focuses on analytical approaches supporting conservation practice. Both destructive and non-destructive investigation methods aimed at identifying material and constructive stratifications, which are fundamental to conservation design, will be presented. In addition, experimental research concerning the use of artificial intelligence for the detection and analysis of decay phenomena will be discussed. The third thematic area adopts an archaeological approach to the subject, addressing both interpretative and applied perspectives. Topics will include preventive conservation, the application of experimental products, and the reading and interpretation of architectural structures through the analysis of standing buildings, integrating methodologies and case studies. The final module will be dedicated to the discussion and synthesis of the topics addressed throughout the course, with the aim of fostering interdisciplinary dialogue on intervention strategies for the built heritage. The course may also include contributions from external experts specializing in the various themes covered.

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The course is structured into five modules, four of 4.5 hours each and the last of 2 hours. Module 1 – Patina, Conservation, Care (4.5 hours). This module consists of two lectures, both delivered by Emanuele Morezzi. The first lecture addresses the role of surfaces in restoration theory, from the 19th century to contemporary developments. The second lecture, combining theoretical and operational perspectives, focuses on surface conservation practices, with particular attention to radical conservation approaches. Module 2 – Looking Beyond the Surface: Diagnostics and Fact-Finding (4.5 hours). The module comprises two lectures: the first will be given by Riccardo Rudiero, and the second by Professors Filiberto Chiabrando (DAD) and Francesca Matrone (DIATI). The first module, lasting 2.5 hours, will present the main tools for identifying architectural finish schemes, how to interpret them, and how these are methodologically intertwined with the restoration project. The second module will explore modern technologies applied to the recognition, through AI, of the main surface defects. Module 3 – Archaeology and Contemporaneity (4.5 hours). The module comprises two lessons, conducted by Emanuele Morezzi. These lessons will explore the theme of surface treatment in archaeology and contemporary buildings, highlighting how the interpretation of surface features forms an integral part of the process of assigning value in restoration projects. Module 4 – Surface fissures: an archaeological approach to building elevations (4.5 hours). The module comprises two lectures, conducted by Riccardo Rudiero, on the archaeological analysis of architectural heritage. The first lesson will focus on the stratigraphic interpretation of elevations, before moving on to archaeosismological analysis. Both these approaches provide essential insights for conservation and restoration projects, enhancing the ability to interpret the stratigraphic sequences of architectural structures and building complexes. Module 5 - Final Seminar and Presentations (2 hours). The final module, jointly conducted by Emanuele Morezzi and Riccardo Rudiero, will adopt a seminar-based format aimed at critically revisiting and discussing the topics addressed throughout the course. The seminar will be informed by presentations delivered by the PhD students, focusing on related thematic issues and/or selected case studies relevant to the course content.

On site

Oral presentation - Written report presentation

P.D.1-1 - November

The course is expected to be completed by mid-February 2027