In the heart of Rome’s northern district, Villa Glori Park is back in the spotlight thanks to a €3.8 million redevelopment project that combines historical preservation with environmental innovation. The focus of the first phase, which is nearing completion, is the restoration of the network of paths, redesigned to restore consistency to Raffaele De Vico’s original landscape design and improve rainwater management.
A key element of the project is the use of i.idro DRAIN BIANCO porous concrete, supplied by Heidelberg Materials (formerly Italcementi) and laid on approximately 5,000 m² of walkways. The material, the result of specific development by the group’s Technology and Quality Department and i.build team, offers high performance in terms of drainage, durability and solar reflectance. Its light-coloured finish is reminiscent of historic gravel, while also ensuring a significant improvement in the microclimate: on-site tests show surface temperatures up to 15- 20°C lower than asphalt, with benefits for visitors, animals and vegetation.
The production process – from the premixer to the controlled small batch mixes – ensured colour uniformity and consistent quality, while continuous dialogue between technologists and installers allowed the mixture to be calibrated according to site conditions. The project reduces soil impermeability, promotes groundwater recharge and contributes to heat island mitigation, in line with Rome’s climate adaptation strategy.
In addition to the new paving, the redevelopment recovers the park’s historic pathways and introduces rest areas, belvederes and accessible play areas. The second phase, scheduled for 2026, will focus on the park’s vegetation with new trees, maintenance of the historic pine forest and a low-consumption irrigation system. Thanks to the synergy between the municipality, designers and Heidelberg Materials, Villa Glori is set to become a model of sustainable landscape restoration.
