Studio Ossidiana is led by Italian architects Alessandra Covini (b. 1988, Milan, IT) and Giovanni Bellotti (b. 1987, Pavia, IT). The Rotterdam-based firm has workeds since 2015 at the intersection of art and architecture, exploring through material and form how to expand our thinking around the inclusive use of space. Through their projects, whether temporary or permanent, they strive to generate new encounters between humans and animals and, in so doing, to re-anchor our relationship with nature in the built environment.
By introducing new typologies or playful rituals, they forge alternative connections and encourage us to take a fresh look at everyday things. As with the Pigeon Tower (2021), where a sculptural totem in the midst of Venice provided another feeding spot for birds in the city. Or Art Pavilion M. at the Floriade (2020), a floating island inspired by the landscape of the Flevopolder, where geography was fused with art and architecture.
Studio Ossidiana have exhibited their work at the Istanbul Biennial (Büyükada Songlines, 2019), the Chicago Architecture Biennial (The Garden Table, 2021) and the 23rd Triennale di Milano (Have we met?, 2022), where they were honoured for their innovation. In 2018 they won the Prix de Rome for architecture, and, more recently, in 2023 The Italian Architecture Prize: Under 35 award with Art Pavilion M.
