Bridging Cultures, Reimagining Landscapes

Connection and Inspiration

Chiara, what inspired you to work on projects in Trentino-South Tyrol, and how has your ability to speak both Italian and German supported your work in this bilingual region?

Trentino-South Tyrol has always fascinated me with its reputation as a region that is “green,” “innovative,” and “ahead of the curve” always with an eye on the other side of the Alps (where I studied). At the same time, the Alpine ecosystem, while breathtaking, is particularly sensitive to the effects of climate change. Working in this context means addressing challenges in a predominantly green environment, where the urgency for action isn’t always felt by the local population. It’s an opportunity to explore how to navigate and adapt within such a unique setting.

 

 

Speaking both Italian and German has been invaluable, as it goes beyond just understanding words—it’s about understanding the culture, the ways of living and thinking that these languages represent. Bilingualism has allowed me to appreciate the nuances of both communities, enabling me to connect more deeply with the people who call these territories home.

 

 

Could you share an impactful moment or insight from working on Trento’s Urban Green Plan and Bolzano’s Ring Promenade that highlights the significance of these projects for you?

One of the most inspiring aspects of these projects has been the chance to encourage people to reimagine their territories. In Trento’s Urban Green Plan, we used creative and unconventional representations to challenge stakeholders to see their city from a fresh perspective. For Bolzano’s Ringpromenade, the project focused on uncovering hidden paths and views, inviting residents to rediscover and re-experience their surroundings. Both projects offered opportunities to show how a shift in perspective can breathe new life into familiar places.

 

Community Impact

How has the community responded to the projects in Trento and Bolzano? Has any feedback particularly stood out to you?

In Trento, stakeholders have shown a strong appreciation for the forward-thinking nature of the Urban Green Plan. There’s a clear recognition of the region’s fragility and the challenges it faces, which has driven attention to neighborhood-level issues and solutions. This local awareness is slightly more pronounced in Trento compared to Bolzano.

 

 

In Bolzano, the Ringpromenade has resonated deeply with the community, especially in light of the changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. The approval of the Urban Green Plan marked a turning point, as residents have begun to rediscover the need for more recreational spaces and a stronger connection to their local environment. The enthusiasm for the project highlights the growing desire to reengage with their municipality and its natural assets.

What impacts do you hope these projects will have on residents’ daily lives as Trentino-South Tyrol evolves into a greener region?

I hope to see cities become more livable, both in terms of climate resilience and the overall quality of life. Cooler, greener spaces will make urban areas more comfortable, while the addition of social spaces will foster connections between people of all ages. By emphasizing the protection and appreciation of natural capital, I believe these projects will inspire greater stewardship and accountability for the landscapes we share.

 

 

Looking Forward

What are some key lessons from these projects that you would apply to future green urban planning efforts?

• Collaborating closely with municipalities is essential. Establishing a shared vocabulary ensures that they can carry the projects forward and understand their full scope, from strategic planning to operational implementation and communication.
• Effective knowledge dissemination plays a critical role in building awareness and support.
• Actively involving clients, stakeholders, and citizens creates stronger, more impactful outcomes.

 

 

As a young landscape architect, how do you envision the future of green cities, and what role do you see for LAND in that future?

The future of green cities will require increasingly holistic visions—grounded in practical steps rather than just aspirational ideas. It’s about not only dreaming of greener cities but also creating tangible pathways to design a more resilient and better future, starting now.

LAND has a pivotal role to play as a mediator between people and nature. By raising awareness and showcasing the urgency for collective action, LAND acts as a “green ambassador,” channelling the efforts of both private and public sectors toward a common goal: creating vibrant, livable spaces for everyone.

 

 

What final thoughts would you share about the projects in Trentino-South Tyrol and the broader mission of #ReconnectingPeopleWithNature?

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s the importance of being bold in our proposals. Clients turn to us because they seek a perspective that challenges their own. While we may sometimes encounter resistance or hesitation, staying focused on our mission and creating spaces that enhance life, makes the effort worthwhile. These projects remind us to keep pushing boundaries and advocating for meaningful change.