On Thursday, June 19th, the Italian Cultural Institute in Miami will host the talk From Carpentry to Masterpieces. How Italian-Made excellence creates extraordinary shapes, a special event dedicated to innovation in architectural design and the promotion of Made in Italy through the integration of advanced technologies and artisanal tradition.
The event explores how new material processing techniques – particularly in wood – and parametric design revolutionized the contemporary architectural landscape. These new technologies enable the creation of complex shapes and double curves, featured in some of the most spectacular projects envisioned by international architectural stars such as Zaha Hadid, Massimiliano Fuksas, Koichi Takada, Kengo Kuma and Jean Nouvel.
Through presentations by leading experts in the field, the debate will highlight how Italy has become a global benchmark in the application of these technologies, contributing to internationally renowned architectural masterpieces – such as the MAXXI Museum and La Nuvola Convention Center in Rome.
Professor Shephen M. Wisniew (University of Miami’s School of Architecture) will present the concept of parametric design, offering a clear and engaging explanation supported by concrete examples. With a background in civil engineering and architecture, Professor Wisniew has wide experience in architectural design and has served with public institutions including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
The uniquely Italian perspective will be provided by Architect Marianna Devoto, under whose direction Devoto Design has collaborated with internationally acclaimed architectural firms, contributing to projects such as the Archive Desk at MAXXI and the Vertigo Restaurant in Doha. Together with Marina Manfrin, she will focus on how legacy of Italian carpentry has evolved into a system capable of meeting the demands of contemporary design, while preserving the artisanal quality that defines Made in Italy.
The event, organized in collaboration with MTW Group, will be introduced by Antonio Acunzo, U.S. Representative in Florida of the American Chamber of Commerce in Italy (AmCham Italy).
A unique opportunity to explore the professional dialogue about technologies innovation and artisanal tradition, and to reflect on Italy’s role as a bridge between past and future in the global architectural landscape.
