Let’s start from the roots, how does your story begin?
It all started with a deep interest in the built environment, whether it was an underground den or a treehouse. What fascinated me were the relationships between space and living beings. As I grew up, everything materialized into a passion for sustainable architecture, where eco-centrism becomes a pillar of design, traditionally centered on anthropocentric needs. The synergy between ecosystems, communities, climate and human presence is at the heart of every project undertaken at UOOU studio. We firmly believe that architecture and design should reflect the harmony between humans and the environment. Therefore, we strive to create solutions that not only fit organically integrate into the natural and social context but also actively contribute to its improvement and the conservation of local biodiversity.
Who are the people who have inspired you the most artistically and professionally?
Renzo Piano, not only a master of architecture, but also a constant inspiration that permeates our creative approach. What fascinates us most is his predilection for transparent and lightweight buildings that not only create aesthetically pleasing spaces but also demonstrate a deep respect for the surrounding environment. The wise use of sustainable materials and the relentless pursuit of advanced technical solutions place him at the forefront of contemporary architecture. Renzo Piano also paved the way for a generation of architects who share his vision of a world built in harmony with nature. This community of innovators, along with lesser-known but equally brilliant figures, has helped shape our conception of architecture as a tool for social and ecological change and development.
How does nature inspire your projects and lifestyle?
Nature is an inspiration for me on two apparently opposite but interconnected fronts. The first one is the emotional one, based on its positive effects on mental and physical well-being. The second one is technical and rooted in the concept of biomimesis, a science that studies processes and structures present in nature and then ingeniously applies them to human creations. A tangible example is the application in contemporary buildings of the natural ventilation system inspired by that of desert termite mounds, which, considered masterpieces of engineering, allow constant ventilation even in the driest areas of the planet. An approach that not only allows us to respect the environment, but also pushes us to explore new frontiers of architectural innovation, where harmony between man and nature is at the center of the creative process.
The trip you most want to take.
Being passionate travelers, I have been privileged to immerse myself in a variety of cultures and environments, which have enriched my understanding of the world and shaped my approach to architecture. This means that we don’t just design buildings, but try to create environments that stimulate the senses and imagination, that tell stories and invite reflection. Every detail, from the layout of spaces to the choice of materials, is designed to provide an engaging and memorable experience for anyone who comes into contact with our creations.
In this way, we see architecture not only as a technical discipline, but as a means of transforming the way people interact with the built world and, consequently, with themselves.
If you could be the main character in a movie, which one would you choose?
Matrix. Its depiction of a parallel dimension, capable of offering a more complete and alternative view of the world, has always aroused deep interest in us.
This concept of exploring new realities and perspectives is what drives our philosophy in creating worlds and experiences through our projects. We try to offer the audience a different and challenging perspective, similar to the one presented in The Matrix.
If you could make a tribute to the earth (soil), what would it be?
Embracing an avantgarde approach to the design and construction of buildings. To create demountable structures with low environmental impact, capable of interacting harmoniously with the surrounding ecosystem rather than damaging it. This means integrating innovative technologies, sustainable materials and eco-friendly construction practices. To leave a positive imprint, a link between humans and nature that reflects our commitment to a more sustainable world in harmony with the environment.
If your project were music, what track would it be?
I imagine our projects as spaces in which the symphony of nature becomes tangible, integrated through architectural and landscape elements that amplify and reflect the sounds of the surrounding natural world. This concept came to life in our project Silence Amplifier, where nature becomes an essential part of A cabin nestled in the woods of Latvia with the goal of creating an architectural organism capable of capturing the silence of the forest, channel it and offer it to the occupants of the cabin in an amplified and customizable way.
Which plant do you reflect yourself in and why?
The birch tree, with its white bark standing out elegantly among the dense green of mountain forests, exerts an irresistible charm. His resilience to the adversities of nature has always been an inspiration. It is known, in fact, for its ability to bend without breaking in the face of the strongest winds, a characteristic that reminds us of the importance of adapting to change and facing difficulties with determination and resilience. So as I venture on my personal and professional journey, I try to keep the lesson of this tree alive: to be flexible, adaptable and resilient in the face of life’s storms.
What does avant gardening mean to you?
The concept of avant gardening represents a commitment to environmental sustainability and general well-being. It is based on eco-sustainable practices, which aim to maintain a harmonious balance between humans and their surroundings, favoring nature-friendly methods and avoiding the use of harmful substances such as pesticides and synthetic chemicals. In addition, gardening should be an inclusive and functional activity, not limited to the mere creation of aesthetic spaces. Growing edible plants in the garden is a crucial step forward: not only does it creates a deeper connection with the natural cycle of life, but it also recognizes the intrinsic value of fresh, local products. Finally, there is immense gratification in reaping the fruits of one’s labor. This concept of going back to the soil, of authenticity and appreciation for what nature offers us, is what UnSoiled seeks to celebrate through its interactive trail, inspiring people to embrace a more sustainable and meaningful life.
Five words for you closely related to the concept of land (soil).
Cyclicity, fragrance, calm, reconnection, life.
Bio
Gianluca Santosuosso, co-founder and lead designer of UAU Studio with offices in Como and Amsterdam, integrates built spaces with the natural environment, making eco-centrism the focus of his architectural design. With an academic background that includes a master’s degree in Design of Self-Sufficient Buildings from IaaC and a master’s degree in Construction Engineering from the Polytechnic University of Turin, he has consolidated his expertise in eco-architecture and experiential design. His professional experience includes collaborations with firms such as Freeman, ecoLogicStudio, Carlo Ratti Associati and MDLab.
Virginia Zanuso, a landscape architect with more than a decade of experience, focuses on landscape architecture. Currently a consultant for companies in the UK, the Netherlands and Italy, she contributes to projects mainly in London, the English countryside and Milan, as well as large-scale projects mostly in the Middle East. Her work is based on collaborations in multidisciplinary teams, contributing to the concept and development of innovative projects.
Gianluca (with the UAU studio team) and Virginia have collaborated on various international projects, including the recent KSA Pavilion at the Horticultural Expo in Doha, Qatar. These collaborations, such as the Unsoiled project – Incontaminato, integrate architecture and landscape design to create an architectural organism capable of evoking emotions and conveying a clear message to visitors.
