as above, so below
architecture as the alchemy of transformation
april 3 - 13, 2025
each project is an act of regeneration, a symbol of a renewed pact between humanity and the environment: a microcosm reflecting a broader, more conscious macrocosm.
In an era where the future of cities intertwines with the fate of the planet, Metamorphosis emerges as a laboratory of ideas, a journey toward a new architecture aimed at protecting the Earth by drawing inspiration from life beyond it. Just as ancient alchemists sought to transmute lead into gold, today’s architects and urban planners work to transform forgotten places into vital, sustainable spaces in harmony with nature.
Look again at that dot. That’s here. That’s home. That’s us.
Look again at that dot. That’s here. That’s home. That’s us.
Look again at that dot. That’s here. That’s home. That’s us.
Look again at that dot. That’s here. That’s home. That’s us.
Look again at that dot. That’s here. That’s home. That’s us.
Today, architecture has the ethical responsibility to create spaces that protect and enhance our environment, recognizing Earth as our only home.
Carl Sagan
transforming
Earth
by looking at the stars
Without mitigation and adaptation actions, by 2100, thousands of square kilometres of italian coastal areas risk to be drowned by the sea.
In Italy, along 2.600 km of high coasts (32,5% of all Italian coasts), more than 4.135 landslides have been registered; on average, 1,55 per kilometer.
In Italy, the building sector contributes 27,9% of energy demand.
In 2021, Italy registered more than 63.000 premature deaths due to air pollution.
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Transforming to Evolve
Transforming to Evolve
Transforming to Evolve
Transforming to Evolve
Transforming to Evolve
technologically progress until the ecosystem collapses? ignore environmental laws to safeguard the territory? start a desertification process at the global scale? apply ethical principles to the technology progress? employ sustainable architecture practices?
architecture is more than construction:
it is the sacred science of transformation
Metamorphosis embraces the courage to change to create urban ecosystems that reflect a new harmony between matter and the spirit of a place. Each regenerated space mirrors a larger vision: a balance between the external and the internal, past and future, technology and nature. As economist Kenneth Boulding said, “Anyone who believes that exponential growth can go on forever in a finite world is either a madman or an economist.”. Today, the role of architecture must evolve ethically and sustainably, embracing practices that respect the ecological limits of our planet. Metamorphosis does not seek the infinite but rather the finite—architecture understood as the science of limits. Limits of space, resources, and real possibilities.
Space as a laboratory for sustainable solutions on Earth.
Festival Architettura – 3rd Edition
research and mission
Theoretical research on terraforming and the possibility of making hostile planets habitable has produced remarkable results for regenerating arid or uninhabitable places on our planet. These studies are now essential tools for multidisciplinary and sustainable architecture. Earth is our spaceship, and if we want to go far, we must take care of it.
connecting generations
We engage young architects and students through competitions and workshops, fostering dialogue between emerging skills and established disciplines.
encouraging vision
Our projects transform abandoned or forgotten spaces into new vital centers, integrating beauty, function, and sustainability.
raising awareness
We take architecture beyond mere construction, exploring its potential to regenerate society, mitigate climate change, and promote new cultural paradigms.
the architect-alchemist a creator of harmony.
Just as the alchemist sought the elixir of life, the contemporary architect shapes matter to create spaces that enhance both the environment and the human spirit. Our projects are based on a holistic approach: sustainable materials, innovative technologies, and a deep respect for the genius loci – the spirit of a place – become the tools of true “urban alchemy.”
Go to the link below and discover the program
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© 2025. metamorphosis
The project is supported by Festival Architettura – 3rd Edition, promoted by the Directorate – General for Contemporary Creativity of the Italian Ministry of Culture.
