Designed by US architect Richard Meier, the Italcementi i.lab, the new research and development center for Italcementi in Bergamo, Italy, reflects the company's position of leadership and commitment to research and innovation in the use of concrete. An innovative high-strength, pollution-reducing reinforced concrete was developed by Italcementi specifically for the building. This new concrete is used for the exterior skin facing the highway, the north screen, the curtain wall mullion system, and the precast wall and roof elements throughout the building. The building was inaugurated in the presence of the Italian Minister for the Environment Corrado Clini.