About the event
Cities Connection Project arrives in Barcelona with Close Encounters 2+2, an innovative format that connects local architecture studios with international firms. Through an enriching dialogue on design and urbanism, architects from different cities will share experiences and approaches to current challenges in the sector, highlighting differences in regulations, territories, construction systems, and social realities.
Created by architects Nicola Regusci and Xavier Bustos, this project aims to generate synergies between architects, cultural agents, governments, and universities, establishing a platform for the exchange of ideas and collaboration between cities with strong architectural traditions. Exhibitions, conferences, and university meetings foster mutual understanding and the creation of new links among participants.
With the support of various institutions and sponsors, Cities Connection continues to strengthen cultural and architectural ties between cities, promoting global collaboration in the field of architecture.
Speakers
Giacomo Guidotti – Switzerland Swiss architect based in Monte Carasso, Ticino. He graduated in architecture from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) in 1997 under the mentorship of Patrik Berger. That same year, he founded the Guidotti Architetti studio together with Riccarda Guidotti. The studio is known for its contemporary approach and sensitivity to local context, integrating elements of Swiss architectural tradition with a modern language. One of his most recognized projects is Casa Grossi in Monte Carasso, completed in 2004. This project exemplifies his commitment to formal clarity and landscape integration. Additionally, Guidotti has been actively involved in teaching and lectures, such as those organized by the Société Française des Architectes.
Enrico Dematté – Switzerland Swiss architect trained at the Accademia di Architettura in Mendrisio (USI) and at ETH Zürich. His work is characterized by meticulous attention to construction detail and a sensitivity to the natural and social environment. During his studies, Dematté participated in innovative projects, such as the representation of the Piano di Magadino using everyday materials to explore the relationship between community and infrastructure. He currently collaborates with Demattè Fontana Architekten GmbH, where he continues to develop projects that reflect a commitment to sustainability and spatial quality.
MAIO Arquitectes – Spain MAIO is an architecture studio based in Barcelona, founded in 2005 by María Charneco, Alfredo Lérida, Guillermo López, and Anna Puigjaner. The collective is known for its focus on flexible spatial systems and its ability to address the changes of contemporary life through open, adaptable, and critical architecture. Their work, which blends professional practice, academic research, and publishing, has been widely recognized for redefining the boundaries between public and private, and between the ordinary and the extraordinary—as seen in projects such as 110 Rooms and the 40 social housing units in Sant Feliu de Llobregat, winners of the 2024 Spanish Architecture Award.
Un Parell d’Arquitectes – Spain Un Parell d’Arquitectes is a studio founded in Olot by Eduard Callís and Guillem Moliner, combining architecture, research, and teaching. Their work is marked by a sensitivity to everyday and public spaces, with projects such as Can Sau and Terrazas, which reinterpret local architecture with a contemporary perspective. They have received awards such as the FAD and have exhibited internationally.
Moderated by Miriam Giordano, communication consultant specialized in architecture and design, and founder of Laboh.