World-renowned architect brings climate secrets to TMU
Mario Cucinella at the entrance of A Sustainable Vision, an exhibition featuring his firm’s work on climate-conscious architecture.
This summer, the TMU community had the rare opportunity to learn from one of the world’s leading sustainable architects right here on campus.
On July 9, TMU hosted renowned Italian architect Mario Cucinella for a special masterclass.
Organized by the Office of the Provost and Vice-President, Academic and the Department of Architectural Science, in partnership with the Italian Contemporary Film Festival, the event brought together students, faculty and design professionals.
Cucinella leads the international architecture firm MCA – Mario Cucinella Architects. He’s known for designing buildings that put people and the environment first.
During his talk, he shared insights from his decades-long career and explained how architects can tackle climate change.
The visit also launched a new exhibit called “Architecture for a Sustainable Future - The Vision of Mario Cucinella”, on for free at the Paul H. Cocker Gallery on campus until September 11, 2025.
The exhibit showcases Cucinella’s innovative projects and design process. It explores how climate, technology and tradition work together and how sustainable architecture goes beyond just being “green.”
“It was a true privilege to share our firm's vision in Toronto earlier this month," said Cucinella.
"We were honored to showcase some of our most important projects for the first time in Canada. We hope that this is just the beginning of an on-going, stimulating, cultural exchange for years to come,” he continued.
Reflecting on the exhibit’s theme and his design philosophy, Cucinella emphasized the importance of learning from the past to shape a more sustainable future.
“There is no innovation without memory,” said Cucinella. “Sustainability means giving new meaning to knowledge and building on the lessons of the past to create architecture that is inclusive, responsible, and future-focused.”
The exhibit offers a timely opportunity for reflection on sustainability, design and global collaboration, and contributes to the ongoing dialogue on climate-conscious architecture within the TMU community and beyond.
To view memorable moments of the evening, see photo highlights below. (All photos by Ramona Diaconescu @diacoram_photography (external link) )
Italian architect Mario Cucinella speaks to students, faculty and guests during a special masterclass at TMU.
Visitors view a model featured in the A Sustainable Vision exhibit at the Paul H. Cocker Gallery.
Mario Cucinella addresses the TMU community during his visit to campus for the launch of his exhibit and accompanying masterclass.
Mario Cucinella Architects: A Sustainable Vision is on display in the Paul H. Cocker Gallery until September 11.
A model of the Unipol Group Headquarters is among several featured designs that explore sustainability and innovation in the built environment.
Cristiano De Florentiis, executive director of the Italian Contemporary Film Festival (ICFF), speaks at the opening reception at TMU.
Students from TMU’s Department of Architectural Science listen closely during Mario Cucinella’s lecture on sustainability in architecture.
Mario Cucinella delivers opening remarks at the public reception celebrating the launch of A Sustainable Vision.
Lisa Landrum, chair of the Department of Architectural Science, welcomes guests at the exhibit opening.