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
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
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