In the ever-evolving world of architecture, the balance between tradition and innovation is a delicate one. Alessandra Rampazzo and Marcello Galiotto, partners in both life and their firm AMAA, have mastered this equilibrium.
With a unique blend of backgrounds and a shared passion for the discipline, they bring a fresh perspective to contemporary architecture. Their approach emphasizes the importance of history while pushing the boundaries of design, making them a force to be reckoned with in the field.
The Dynamic Partnership of Alessandra Rampazzo and Marcello Galiotto
Alessandra Rampazzo and Marcello Galiotto met during their university studies, where their differing academic focuses laid the groundwork for a complementary partnership.
Alessandra’s background in the history of architecture and Marcello’s in architectural design allow them to cover all aspects of a project, from research and administration to composition and detail-oriented design.
This synergy is the cornerstone of their firm, AMAA, where they strive to bring a balance of influences to every project they undertake.
Complementary Roles and Shared Values
One of the key strengths of Alessandra and Marcello’s partnership is their ability to leverage their individual skills to enhance their collective work.
Alessandra focuses on research, history, and site supervision, while Marcello delves into composition and design. This division of labor allows them to approach projects from multiple angles, ensuring that every aspect is meticulously considered.
Their shared values in architecture further strengthen their collaboration, enabling them to create cohesive and innovative designs.
The Evolution of AMAA: From Competitions to Complex Projects
When Alessandra and Marcello first established AMAA, they immersed themselves in competitions and private projects.
Competitions provided a platform for them to express their creativity without the constraints of client expectations. However, as their ideas and research evolved, they found that competitions were no longer the ideal outlet for their forward-thinking concepts.
The public sector in Italy, in particular, posed challenges due to its conservative approach and reluctance to embrace change.
Navigating the Public and Private Spheres
In the public sphere, Alessandra and Marcello encountered resistance to their innovative ideas, which often clashed with the traditional values and cautious spending habits of public clients.
Conversely, the private sector offered more flexibility, allowing them to push boundaries and work closely with clients to realize their vision.
This shift in focus has enabled them to explore new avenues and continue to grow as architects.
Preserving the Past While Embracing the Future
Alessandra and Marcello’s approach to architecture is deeply rooted in the concept of adaptive reuse.
Rather than demolishing old buildings to make way for new structures, they seek to preserve the past and integrate it into their designs.
This philosophy is exemplified in projects like *It’s Kind of a Circular Story* and *Pleonastic is Fantastic*, where they repurpose existing materials and structures to create something new and meaningful.
Case Study: It’s Kind of a Circular Story
One of their notable projects, *It’s Kind of a Circular Story*, was a design installation for the Venice Biennale.
Using recovered waste material and brass, they created a table that breathes new life into these elements. This project highlights their commitment to sustainability and their ability to blend primitive materials with contemporary design. It serves as a testament to their belief in the importance of understanding and respecting the history of a space.
Case Study: Pleonastic is Fantastic
Another project that showcases their adaptive reuse philosophy is *Pleonastic is Fantastic*, where they restored a Venetian barchessa.
This small project transformed the life of an existing building by preserving its historical elements while introducing modern touches. Alessandra and Marcello’s ability to balance the old and the new is evident in this project, demonstrating their skill in creating architecture that tells a story.
The Importance of Collaboration in Architecture
At AMAA, collaboration is a fundamental aspect of their practice.
Alessandra and Marcello believe that working with professionals from various fields, including art and photography, enriches their architectural projects.
This interdisciplinary approach allows them to create designs that are not only functional but also inspiring and thought-provoking.
The Role of Passion in Their Work
Passion is the driving force behind Alessandra and Marcello’s work.
They believe that without passion, it would be impossible to navigate the challenges and responsibilities that come with the profession, especially in a country like Italy where architecture is seen as a lasting legacy.
Their enthusiasm for art, books, and design keeps them inspired and motivated to continue pushing the boundaries of architecture.
Conclusion: The Future of AMAA
As Alessandra Rampazzo and Marcello Galiotto continue to evolve their practice, their commitment to balancing tradition with innovation remains unwavering.
Their unique partnership, built on complementary skills and shared values, allows them to approach architecture with a fresh perspective.
By embracing adaptive reuse and fostering collaboration, they are shaping the future of architecture, one project at a time.
To learn more about their journey and insights, you can read their full interview at The Talks.