Palazzo Odeon, a historic icon in central Milan, is undergoing a significant renovation by Progetto CMR

Progetto CMR, integrated design firm founded by Architect Massimo Roj has been engaged for the conservation and revitalization of Palazzo Odeon, a landmark building now approaching its centennial. The complex, with dual entrances on Via Santa Radegonda 8 and Via Agnello 5-7, encompasses over 15,000 square meters in Milan’s historic center. Since 2017, it has been a protected historic and artistic asset under the supervision of the Superintendence of Archaeology, Fine Arts, and Landscape for the Metropolitan City of Milan.

Opened in 1929 with its art deco facade, in 1943, the complex was affected by the fire caused by the bombing of the Rinascente building. In 1984, after being acquired by the Fininvest group, architects Albini-Helg-Piva led a project to transform the space into a multiplex, modifying many areas except the two main halls: the ground-floor cinema and the underground theater. Based on the building's original 1920s design, the project includes the rehabilitation and conservation of the basement level, preserving the original decor of "Room 2" in alignment with the Superintendence's guidelines. Progetto CMR is also handling the preservation of both facades, on Via S. Radegonda and Via Agnello and is overseeing the restoration of the portico on Via S. Radegonda with its polychrome marble flooring. “Progetto CMR’s vision for Palazzo Odeon is rooted in respect for this true Milanese icon, where generations have enjoyed films in one of Italy’s oldest and most beautiful cinema halls, a space conceived to unify various forms of entertainment under one roof—a concept that remains highly relevant today”, stated Massimo Roj, co-Founder and CEO of Progetto CMR.


Photo courtesy of Vittorio La Fata

Meanwhile, rumours suggest that by May 2027 an area of about 7,000 square metres on the ground floor will be allocated to Rinascente Beauty Hall dedicated to the world of cosmetics, with an interior design by Marco Costanzi, to make this place part of an entire shopping district: the new Rinascente-district between Via Santa Radegonda, Via Agnello and Corso Vittorio Emanuele, which, in addition to the main building, will also include the Rinascente Annex, with a new layout and spaces for bars and restaurants. The upper floors of the Palazzo Odeon will instead be dedicated to offices, while the basement will retain its former soul and be used for 4-5 cinemas.