Cultural hub celebrating Tuscan crafts among projects by Florence Design Institute International

The Florence Institute of Design International (FIDI) has presented a range of student projects as part of Dezeen School Shows, showcasing innovative interior design solutions for contemporary societal and cultural developments. The final-year students of the BA (Hons) Design program, in collaboration with the University of Chester, developed individual design proposals of approximately 3,000 square meters, focusing on sustainable solutions and detailed studies of building system design, lighting acoustics, and casework. One featured project, 'Gen' by Dunja Stanojevic, is an educational center designed to address the complex relationship between humans and technology. This center aims to foster informed engagement by providing accessible, future-oriented learning environments grounded in themes of serenity, evolution, and detachment. Stanojevic's design uses calm, balanced layouts, regulated natural light, modular elements, and innovative materials to create adaptable spaces that promote environmental awareness and technological literacy. Camila Belen Gallardo Andino's 'Ethos and Logos' cultural center draws inspiration from Florence's rich intellectual and artistic heritage. It is conceived as a space for critical thinking, dialogue, and reflection, bridging classical philosophy with contemporary thought. The design emphasizes communication, curiosity, and continuity through socially inviting layouts and adaptable interiors, incorporating study rooms, lecture halls, exhibition areas, and research spaces. Material choices and architectural rhythm subtly reference historical structures while supporting modern functions. Julia Laresgoiti's 'Grove House,' located in Chianti, is a culinary residence focused on reconnecting individuals with food, community, and the environment. The design integrates themes of belonging, structure, and impression through thoughtful space and furniture design. It features an atmosphere of warmth and connection, utilizing recycled and natural materials. The layout includes student dorms, a courtyard, lounge, culinary classrooms, laboratories, and an auditorium, promoting an active, communal learning experience. Lydia Hilal Deniz's 'Sen' reimagines a repurposed tram warehouse near the Arno River in Florence into an international fine art and theatre school. The project, named 'Sen' (meaning 'you' in Turkish), prioritizes individual creative growth and self-expression. The design explores themes of light, movement, and texture, using natural daylight, vibrant color accents, and tactile materials to create an inspiring atmosphere. A sculptural staircase, textured glass panels, and three-dimensional mouldings contribute to the unique interior, with organic circulation and a muted color palette guiding visitors. 'Casa Della Speranza' (House of Hope) by Kanchini Chandrasiri is a communal space designed for breast cancer patients, aiming to celebrate resilience and provide a refuge for recovery. The design incorporates themes of stability, transformation, rediscovery, and hope through spatial strategies like expansion and contraction, interplay of elements, and fluidity of layout. It uses materials that convey strength and stability, arranged in geometric patterns, and includes spaces for relaxation (fitness studios, library, therapy areas) and community activities (pottery workshop, painting studio, theatres). Valentina Salazar Munevar's 'Vita' wellness center focuses on shared well-being for young adults, promoting identity connection and community building. The design translates vitality into spatial design through four functions: energized engagement, social interaction, relaxation, and introspection. It incorporates diverse geometrical forms and textures, using conceptual lenses of dualism, authenticity, and tranquility. Located outside Florence city center, the hub offers exercise spaces, social lounges, a sensory deprivation room, and meditation and mental health services. 'Ariston' by Irina Ariza Cooper is an institute dedicated to applied arts and their historical context, situated in Florence's Santa Maria Novella district. It functions as both an educational and cultural hub, emphasizing the link between art and history. The design language, rooted in continuity, features rhythm, consistency, and movement to create intuitive pathways and visual cohesion. Carefully selected materials and forms guide visitors through an immersive sensory experience, inviting reflection on Florence's artistic heritage. Estefany Justiniano Davila's 'SOMOS' is a cultural center aimed at sharing and celebrating Latin heritage, fostering inclusivity and transcending geographical boundaries. The space reflects themes of heritage, diversity, and vibrancy through various textures and warm hues, from patterned tiled floors to bamboo-paneled ceilings. The design promotes the exchange of ideas with a fluid floor plan that includes an exhibition space, tapestry weaving studios, other art studios, and artisanal shops. It seeks to promote communal understanding and break down cultural differences. Finally, Maria Antonia Coelho Michels' 'Casa Artigiana di Firenze' aims to revitalize traditional crafts by providing a local space for teaching and learning. Located just outside Florence city center, it encourages collaboration and skill-sharing to preserve Tuscan artisanal traditions. The design incorporates themes of connection, imperfection, and human intervention, translated into enclosed spaces for community, imperfect architectural forms, and an emphasis on craftsmanship-integrated materials. The cultural hub includes artisan workshops, classrooms, courtyards, a cafe bar, and gallery space, aiming to attract tourists and create employment opportunities for local artists. Ishini Ranatunga's 'Sed-Em-Ra' transforms a former warehouse into a crisis intervention center that supports mental and physical well-being through art and nature. Drawing on biophilic design principles, the space is structured around themes of realization, discovery, connection, and acceptance. Organic spatial flows, soft transitions, and curated materials invite introspection and healing. Ribbed and perforated oak wood, neutral tones, and natural textures create a calming and grounding environment, fostering community and restoration through a sequence of transformative spaces. #FlorenceInstituteOfDesignInternational #InteriorDesign #SchoolShows #SustainableDesign #CulturalHub #EducationalCentre #AdaptiveReuse #CrisisIntervention #TuscanCrafts #FlorenceInstituteOfDesignInternational #InteriorDesign #SchoolShows #SustainableDesign #CulturalHub #EducationalCentre #AdaptiveReuse #CrisisIntervention #TuscanCrafts