Dezeen School Shows: a cultural centre focused on teaching artisanal craft techniques native to Tuscany is among work by Florence Institute of Design International students.

Also featured is an educational centre dedicated to the study of the fast-evolving relationship between humans and technology, and a former warehouse that has been adaptively reused and now houses a crisis intervention centre.

Florence Institute of Design International

Institution: Florence Institute of Design International
Course: BA (Hons) Design
Tutors: Alejandro Amador, Federico Grazzini, Giovanni Pierantoni and Lorenzo Masini

School statement:

"Florence Institute of Design International is an international design school located in the centre of Florence, Italy.

"The Design Research Project and Building Systems courses are held during the final year of the three-year interior design programme.

"Each design proposal is approximately 3,000 square meters and is developed individually by each student in relation to societal and cultural developments, with an emphasis on sustainable solutions.

"Renderings, plans and sections are accompanied by extensive studies of building system design, lighting acoustics and casework details.

"The three-year programme offers intensive curriculum teaching on various aspects of interior design to acquire advanced skills and knowledge and develop professional practitioners within the international design community.

"The three years of study resulted in a validated bachelor degree, BA (Hons) Design, issued in collaboration with the University of Chester."

Gen by Dunja Stanojevic

"Created in response to growing tensions around technological progress, which are often viewed as both threat and opportunity, this educational centre focuses on the evolving relationship between advanced technology and human development.

"The centre aims to promote informed engagement by offering accessible, future-oriented learning environments.

"Gen is grounded in the themes of serenity, evolution and detachment, which Stanojevic translates through spatial compositions that prioritise calm, balanced layouts and regulated natural light.

"Modular elements and innovative materials allow for adaptability, encouraging prolonged use and functional diversity.

"Designed as a public resource, the centre combines interactive tools and sustainable strategies to foster environmental awareness and technological literacy."

Student: Dunja Stanojevic
Email: dunjast[at]icloud.com

Ethos and Logos by Camila Belen Gallardo Andino

"Inspired by the Florence's deep intellectual and artistic legacy, the centre is designed to foster exploration at the intersection of reason and character.

"Offering a space for critical thinking, dialogue and reflection, the cultural centre bridges classical philosophy with contemporary thought.

"Grounded in themes of communication, curiosity and continuity, the proposal interprets space through socially inviting layouts and adaptable interiors.

"Study rooms, lecture halls, exhibition areas, and research spaces are interwoven through a spatial language that encourages interaction and shared discovery.

"Material choices and architectural rhythm subtly reference historical structures, while supporting modern functions. With Ethos and Logos, Andino envisions a hub for cultural engagement."

Student: Camila Belen Gallardo Andino
Email: cgallardo2332[at]gmail.com

Grove House by Julia Laresgoiti

"Located in the heart of Chianti, Grove House is a culinary residence striving to foster a renewed sense of connection between our food, our community and the environment.

"The design plays with themes of belonging, structure and impression through thoughtful space and furniture design.

"Grove House is grounded in an atmosphere of warmth and connection, surrounded by recycled and natural materials that guests are encouraged to use to build on their personal connection between body and environment.

"In every corner of the space, materials and minimalist details carry the weight of interconnection.

"The residence's layout includes the student dorms, a courtyard and lounge for communing, culinary classrooms and laboratories, and a lecture auditorium.

"Through intentional design, the proposal transforms education into an active, communal experience, nurturing a future where relationships with food and communities are not just understood but valued."

Student: Julia Laresgoiti
Email: laresgoitij[at]gmail.com

Sen by Lydia Hilal Deniz

"Located within a repurposed tram warehouse beside the Arno River near the centre of Florence, the design reimagines the space as an international fine art and theatre school.

"The project, named Sen, which means 'you' in Turkish, emphasises individual creative growth and self-expression, placing the student at the core of the experience.

"The design explores themes of light, movement and texture, using natural daylight, vibrant colour accents and tactile materials to create an inspiring atmosphere.

"A sculptural staircase anchors the entrance, while textured glass panels and three-dimensional mouldings, selected for both their acoustic and aesthetic qualities, define the interior spaces.

"Organic circulation flows throughout, guided by a subtle palette of muted reds and blues that introduce visual rhythm without overwhelming the senses.

"Through this layered and expressive approach, Deniz seeks to promote a space where creativity is nurtured, and each student's journey becomes a personal masterpiece."

Student: Lydia Hilal Deniz
Email: lydiahilaldeniz[at]gmail.com

Casa Della Speranza by Kanchini Chandrasiri

"Envisioned as a beacon of hope, Casa Della Speranza is a communal space designed to celebrate the resilience of the human spirit.

"The centre offers a refuge and recovery environment for those diagnosed with breast cancer.

"The design explores themes of stability, transformation, rediscovery and hope which are translated through spatial design strategies like expansion and contraction, the interplay of elements, and the fluidity of layout.

"The proposal chooses to use various materials in the space that echo strength and stability, aligning them in geometric patterns that emit a sense of controlled rhythm even amidst changing textures.

"It includes spaces to relax and reflect, such as a fitness studios, library, and therapy areas, in combination with areas dedicated to activity and community like a pottery workshop, painting studio and theatres.

"The Casa Della Speranza or House of Hopes taps into the spirit of resilience and survival, designing a space that encourages those who enter to bolster hope and fight for tomorrow."

Student: Kanchini Chandrasiri
Email: kanchinichandrasiri[at]gmail.com

Vita by Valentina Salazar Munevar

"Generating shared wellbeing through awareness of the body and mind, the 'Vita' wellness centre allows young adults to connect with their identity and empowers them to create community.

"The core of the design is the study of vitality and how it can be translated into spatial design through four primary functions: energised engagement, social interaction, relaxation and introspection.

"By incorporating diverse geometrical forms and textures, the design articulates its functions through the conceptual lenses of dualism, authenticity and tranquility.

"Located outside Florence city centre, the youth hub provides a robust programme including several exercise spaces, social and relaxation lounges, a sensory deprivation room and various spaces for meditation and mental health services.

"The proposal seeks to create a place to shape the development of generations to come and promote a life full of vitality."

Student: Valentina Salazar Munevar
Email: valentina.salazm[at]gmail.com

Ariston by Irina Ariza Cooper

"Situated in the heart of Florence's Santa Maria Novella district, the project proposes an institute dedicated to the applied arts and their historical context.

"Designed as both an educational and cultural hub, the institute seeks to reinforce the intrinsic link between art and history, recognising that a deeper understanding of one enriches appreciation of the other.

"Through a design language rooted in continuity, the spatial layout prioritises rhythm, consistency and movement to create intuitive pathways and visual cohesion.

"Carefully selected materials and forms guide visitors through a sensory experience that is both deliberate and immersive.

"The institute is envisioned not just as a place of learning, but as a space that invites reflection, offering the opportunity to engage with the artistic heritage of Florence while fostering a connection between past, present and future."

Student: Irina Ariza Cooper
Email: irina.arizacooper[at]gmail.com

SOMOS by Estefany Justiniano Davila

"Building a cultural bridge, the cultural centre is driven by a passion to share and celebrate the stories and voices of Latin heritage.

"SOMOS is designed around inclusivity, ultimately created to transcend geographical boundaries and encourage curious explorers to connect, learn and celebrate the beauty of cultural exchange.

"To reflect themes of heritage, diversity and vibrancy, the space incorporates a variety of textures and hues, unified by their warm tones.

"Each material creates its own story in shape and colour from the patterned tiled floors to the bamboo panelled ceilings. The design emphasises the exchange of ideas with a floor plan that flows from one function to the next.

"The centre features an exhibition space for artists, studios for tapestry weaving and other arts, and a range of artisanal shops.

"Through the creation of SOMOS, the design promotes communal understanding and the breaking down of cultural differences, reminding us how belonging can be found not just in familiar landscapes, but also in the embrace of shared humanity."

Student: Estefany Justiniano Davila
Email: estefyjustiniano24[at]gmail.com

Casa Artigiana di Firenze by Maria Antonia Coelho Michels

"Beyond merely providing artists a marketplace for their wares, Casa Artigiana Di Firenze aims to revitalise traditional crafts by offering a local space for teaching and learning.

"Located just outside Florence city centre, a space conducive to collaboration and skill-sharing, hoping to preserve and perpetuate invaluable artisanal traditions of Tuscany.

"The design incorporates three themes: connection, imperfection and human intervention.

"The designer translates this into her design through enclosed spaces for community creation, imperfect architectural forms and furniture placements to inspire freedom, and an emphasis on materials that incorporate craftsmanship.

"The cultural hub offers a large programme, including artisan workshops and studios, dedicated classrooms, multiple courtyards, a local cafe bar and gallery space to showcase work.

"Casa Artigiana seeks to establish a magnet for tourists seeking authentic cultural experiences, slowly generating more employment opportunities for the local artistic communities of Florence."

Student: Maria Antonia Coelho Michels
Email: marmichart[at]gmail.com

Sed-Em-Ra by Ishini Ranatunga

"Set within the former Deposito di Varlungo, a converted workshop and warehouse on Via di Varlungo in Florence, this project proposes a crisis intervention centre designed to support mental and physical wellbeing through the therapeutic integration of art and nature.

"Drawing on the principles of biophilic design, the space is shaped around the themes of realisation, discovery, connection and acceptance.

"These ideas are explored through organic spatial flows, soft transitions and carefully curated materials that invite introspection and healing.

"Ribbed and perforated oak wood adds tactile depth, while neutral tones and natural textures work in harmony to evoke calm and grounding.

"The design fosters a sense of community and restoration, offering a sequence of spaces that guide users through a personal and transformative journey.

"With this intervention centre, Ranatunga hopes to reframe wellness environments as places of inspiration, comfort and quiet connection."

Student: Ishini Ranatunga
Email: ishiniranatunga[at]gmail.com

Partnership content

This school show is a partnership between Dezeen and Florence Institute of Design International. Find out more about Dezeen partnership content here.

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