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Our Ambition

We are Gianmarco Maina and Giulia Spazzini, two architects with a strong passion for sustainable architecture and renovation of historical architectural heritage. After completing our architecture degree at SUPSI, we chose to further our education working in Zurich. This period provided us with the necessary experience to develop a rigorous design approach.

From there, our curiosity led us to travel to various parts of the world, with the goal of exploring and experimenting with different construction techniques, local materials, and both traditional and innovative construction techniques. Each experience enriched us, allowing us to closely observe how cultures and territories influence the way architecture develops in relation to the surrounding environment.

Together, we founded a studio that stands out for its approach to restoration and renovation, which combines respect for tradition with the search for innovative solutions. We firmly believe that historical heritage can be preserved and enhanced through renovation techniques that respect the past while projecting it into the future, favoring the use of natural, low environmental impact materials and energy-efficient design. What sets us apart is our ability to integrate low-tech solutions that maximize the energy efficiency of buildings, without relying on complex technologies, but instead making the most of local and natural resources.

We believe that architecture should meet contemporary needs, while also respecting and enriching the historical and cultural context in which it is placed, creating a deep connection between the past, present, and future.

Our Background

Gianmarco Maina

Gianmarco Maina | old doors new ways
Gianmarco Maina | old doors new ways
Gianmarco Maina | old doors new ways

2024

2023

2023

2022 - 2023

2021 - 2022

2021

2020 - 2021

2020

2017 - 2019

2014 - 2017

2013

2009 - 2013

1994

Start of the architecture office in Carì, Switzerland

Permaculture Design Course, Noosa Forest Retreat, Australia

Architect and builder by Viva Living Homes, Australia

Architect on road, New Zealand and Australia

Architect by SQUADRAT Architekten, Zurich

Freelancer, Tanzania

Architect by SQUADRAT Architekten, Zurich

Volunteer for NGO C-re-aid, Tanzania | Freelancer, Agno

Architect by Steib-Gmür-Geschwentner Architekten, Zurich 

SUPSI - Bachelor of Architecture, Lugano

Draftsman by BASSICARELLA architectes, Geneva

School of Arts and Crafts SAM, Lugano

Born in Lugano, Switzerland

Giulia Spazzini

Giulia Spazzini | old doors new ways
Giulia Spazzini | old doors new ways
Giulia Spazzini | old doors new ways

2024

2023

2023

2022 - 2023

2021 - 2022

2021

2018 - 2021

2017 

2014 - 2017

2013 - 2014

2008 - 2013

1994

Start of the architecture office in Carì, Switzerland

Permaculture Design Course, Noosa Forest Retreat, Australia

Architect and builder by Viva Living Homes, Australia

Architect on road, New Zealand and Australia

Architect by ROSSETTI + WYSS Architekten, Zurich

Freelancer, Tanzania

Architect by ROSSETTI + WYSS Architekten, Zurich

Architect by Celoria Architects, Balerna

SUPSI - Bachelor of Architecture, Lugano

Trainee by AMPROGETTI, Bellinzona | Trainee by Dotta&Bulloni, Caslano

Scientific Bilingual High School, Italy

Born in Cantù, Italy

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