Cascina Merlata: A Sustainable and Emerging Residential Hub in Milan's Municipio 8

From Agricultural Roots to Modern Urbanism

Cascina Merlata is one of the newest and most transformative urban developments within Milan's Municipio 8, a district that also includes areas like QT8, Gallaratese, and Fiera. Historically, the area was characterized by agricultural land and rural cascine (farmsteads), with 'Cascina Merlata' itself originally referring to one such historic farmhouse. Located near the northwest periphery of the city, this neighborhood has undergone significant redevelopment, especially in the years leading up to and following Expo Milano 2015.

The turning point for Cascina Merlata came when the area was selected to host the Expo Village, a temporary residential district built to accommodate international delegations and workers during the global exposition. After the Expo, the neighborhood was converted into a permanent residential and mixed-use district. This redevelopment was aligned with broader city plans to repurpose peripheral spaces into inclusive, green, and well-connected urban areas. Today, Cascina Merlata represents a compelling blend of Milan's rural heritage and its push toward modern, sustainable urbanism.

Residential Innovation and Community Planning

Cascina Merlata is widely recognized for being the site of one of the largest public housing projects in Italy in recent decades. The area hosts both subsidized and private residential buildings, with a focus on environmental performance and social integration. Many of the residential structures built for the Expo Village were designed with permanent conversion in mind and now serve as modern housing units. These buildings were constructed with energy-efficient materials, thermal insulation, and renewable energy systems such as solar panels.

The neighborhood layout follows a human-centered urban planning approach. Wide sidewalks, bike paths, traffic-calmed streets, and public squares support a pedestrian-friendly environment. Residents benefit from thoughtfully designed shared spaces and services, including playgrounds, fitness trails, and meeting areas. The neighborhood is a case study in integrating social housing with quality architecture and comprehensive services. The goal is not only to provide housing but to build a cohesive and active local community.

Green Spaces and Sustainable Infrastructure

One of the defining features of Cascina Merlata is its abundance of green space. The area is home to Parco Cascina Merlata, a large public park that serves as the green heart of the neighborhood. Covering approximately 300,000 square meters, the park features walking trails, open meadows, wooded areas, and sports facilities. It not only provides residents with recreational opportunities but also contributes to biodiversity and urban cooling in the increasingly developed northwest quadrant of Milan.

Environmental sustainability is embedded in nearly every aspect of the neighborhood's design. Building materials were chosen for durability and low environmental impact, and stormwater is managed using permeable surfaces and green infrastructure. In addition, underground waste collection and district heating systems are in place to reduce pollution and increase energy efficiency. Cascina Merlata stands as a model of sustainable suburban expansion that avoids the typical pitfalls of urban sprawl.

Retail, Education, and Public Services

The neighborhood has developed a growing portfolio of essential services to support its residential population. This includes the Merlata Bloom Shopping Center, a large retail complex opened in phases beginning in late 2023. The center hosts a mix of fashion retailers, grocery outlets, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it a key commercial anchor not only for Cascina Merlata but for surrounding districts as well. The center is directly accessible via pedestrian paths and local bus lines, reinforcing the area's walkability.

Education is also prioritized in neighborhood planning. Several nurseries and primary schools have already been constructed, with more educational infrastructure planned as the population grows. Public administration has worked to ensure that public services—including healthcare, early childhood education, and elderly support—are well distributed and integrated into the local urban fabric. The goal is to offer residents access to comprehensive services without needing to leave the neighborhood.

Connectivity and Access to Greater Milan

Cascina Merlata benefits from a strategic location on Milan's northwestern edge, with direct access to major transportation corridors. The district is situated near the A4 and A8 motorways, facilitating regional travel. Additionally, it is adjacent to the Rho Fiera Milano railway station and connected to Milan's Metro Line 1 (M1) via nearby stops such as Molino Dorino and Rho Fiera, though a future extension of metro or tram lines into the heart of the neighborhood remains under discussion.

Bike-sharing and electric vehicle infrastructure are increasingly integrated into the neighborhood's mobility strategy. Several dedicated bike lanes connect Cascina Merlata to neighboring areas like Gallaratese and Portello. Plans to improve connections to other zones of Municipio 8 and adjacent municipalities have also included consideration for additional bus routes and shuttle services. These multimodal transport options reflect Milan's broader goal of reducing dependence on private vehicles while ensuring seamless urban connectivity.

An Evolving Urban Frontier

As of 2025, Cascina Merlata continues to evolve, with several phases of construction still underway or in the planning stages. The area is a living laboratory for urban policy in Milan, where lessons from past developments inform ongoing improvements in design, infrastructure, and governance. Stakeholders include not only private developers and architects but also residents, city officials, and nonprofit organizations working to promote inclusivity and sustainability.

The neighborhood's continued growth is being watched closely by urban planners across Italy, as it represents a scalable model for suburban renewal and managed expansion. Cascina Merlata's trajectory illustrates how thoughtful planning, environmental stewardship, and inclusive policy can transform peripheral zones into vibrant, resilient communities that support the needs of modern urban life.