Xu Tiantian, the trailblazing architect and founder of China’s first woman-led architecture firm, is celebrated for rejuvenating rural Chinese communities. Leading DnA Design and Architecture, she employs “architectural acupuncture” to implement precise interventions that enhance local craftsmanship and conserve heritage. Since 2013, Xu has been transforming the Songyang district with over 20 innovative, sustainable projects in collaboration with and respectful of the local environment and communities.

In English.

Brazilian architect Carla Juaçaba, based in Rio de Janeiro, is celebrated for her projects that blend precise construction with contextual sensitivity. Her work spans unique houses and ephemeral installations, such as the Pavilion Humanidade 2012. She participated in the 2018 Venice Biennale and designed a chapel for the Vatican Pavilion. A recipient of numerous prestigious awards, she has been teaching at the Accademia di Architettura di Mendrisio since 2019. Her creations are featured in major institutions, including the Centre Pompidou. Recently, she has presented installations in Geneva and Lisbon.

In English.

Architect Rina Rolli, founder of OFREIA and co-founder of StudioSer Architects, wraps up the “Anima” lecture series at the Pavillon Sicli. Known for her architectural approach that meticulously observes contexts and uses, her work uncovers the often hidden potential of places. As a lecturer at EPFL and BFH, she combines research with teaching, and her acclaimed work has received awards both in Switzerland and internationally.

In English.