SMAT, Società Metropolitana per le Acque di Torino, is a leader in the integrated water service and manages some of the biggest and most advanced water networks and treatment plants in Europe, both for drinking and waste waters. It produces 250 million cubic metres of good quality drinking water for the needs of more than 2 million citizens.
Apart from working together with Politecnico di Torino to develop research activities in  the water sector, the SMAT Research Center partakes in international initiatives aimed at promoting access to water and to give specific technical assistance in order to realise infrastructures and water systems.
The new research centre is located in Corso Unità d'Italia in Turin and is characterised by high front walls. These high walls, parallel to the Corso, are reminiscent of the shape of Roman aqueducts with a series of slender arches. These artefacts have been restyled in a modern fashion and they give a sense of transparency and lightness to the building. This effect is enhanced also by the use of steel and glass which reflect the surrounding landscape.
Doors and windows of the front walls are made with Secco EBE thermal cut profiles, in stainless steel AISI 316L with a “scotch brite” finishing.