Lake Como Design Festival opens the doors of the Asilo Sant’Elia (1935–1937) by Giuseppe Terragni to the public. This masterpiece of Rationalist architecture was designed to promote the educational and psychological well-being of children. Inside, a video installation showcases the project Piccoli Razionalisti (“Little Rationalists”), conceived by Wonderlake Como in collaboration with the Accademia dei Piccoli Artisti. During the 2024/25 school year, the project involved over 1,400 primary school students from the city and province of Como in a journey to discover Rationalist architecture in the region.
Asilo Sant'Elia, Como. Photo by Enrico Cano.
Piccoli Razionalisti culminates with its presentation inside the Asilo Sant’Elia during the seventh edition of the Lake Como Design Festival, and it also announces its expansion through the new project Città Razionalista (“Rationalist City”). This new phase extends the initiative to new age groups — including primary and high school students, as well as adult citizens — and introduces new architectural sites in the area. Città Razionalista aims to engage 2,500 residents of Como and the surrounding territory, starting from age six, in discovering the iconic landmarks of Larian Rationalism through tailor-made educational paths designed for every age and level of knowledge.
Creative workshops at the Sant'Elia – During its opening, the Asilo will also serve as a setting for creative workshops for children (from 6 to 11 years old), inspired by the history and shapes of the place. Sunday, September 14 and 21, subject to availability. Book your workshop. For more info: experience@wonderlakecomo.com
PICCOLI RAZIONALISTI
Asilo Sant'Elia
Como, via Alciato 15
14-21 September 2025
10 AM – 6 PM
Admission with
limited capacity