I’m Madalin Manu, over the years I’ve actively pursued opportunities that pushed me beyond my comfort zone to broaden my knowledge and expertise. My exchange program at Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden was a transformative experience, significantly refining my academic and personal skills. I’m eager to embark on a new journey, seeking fresh challenges and growth opportunities after the conclusion of my Master’s at IUAV University in Venice. This job application marks the start of my next chapter in pursuit of continuous development and professional growth.
Languages Personal Contacts
Italian Mother tongue
Romanian
+39 3477536411
madalin.manu1@gmail.com Mother tongue
Linkedin: Madalin Manu
Instagram: Madalin Manu
Education
2022-2024
2022-2023
2018-2021
University IUAV of Venice Master in Architecture
Chalmers University of Technology
Master Exchange Program in Architecture
University IUAV of Venice
Bachelor in Architecture: Project Techniques and Cultures
Work Experience
09/23-11/24
10/21-02/22
09/20-12/20
Cinque A, Treviso
Full Time as Intern
Studio TESI, San Stino di Liv.
Full Time Employee
Studio TESI, San Stino di Liv.
Full Time as Intern
Workshops
2022 2021 2020 2019
Skills
Islands. Architecture and landscapes of water (LINK)
Post-Covid Scenarios (LINK)
Venice Future Campus (LINK) with Toni Gironès with Errante Architetture with COR Arquitectos
Venice Sustainable City (LINK)
with Mauricio Rocha, Gabriela Carrillo, Escobedo Soliz Studio, Carlos Facio
Laser Cutting Machine, Aristo Cutting Machine, 3D Printing, Hand Drafting/Modeling
Photography Traveling
Volunteering
Cooking
Trekking
Team Sports
New Urban Jungle
Exposition Form and space
The project for the Altan Museum-Archive was born from the need to create a space that goes beyond the mere function of a museum and a research center for works, but rather a recognizable place that remains in the memory of the people who use it. To achieve this goal, pure geometric shapes were used, which serve a structural function for the entire building, which is divided into two main sections. The block on the left houses all the functions related to the museum space, archive, and play areas for children, while the building on the right contains the management functions and also offers a conference room that protrudes over the Natissa riverbank.
This principle of dialogue with the surrounding nature was at the basis of the design choices. The linear development of the building is generated by the signs of the earth, and this generating axis is accompanied along its development by the presence of cypress trees that reproduce the nature present in the historic basilica of the city, thus intersecting with the axis of the river, which generates a pier this generates a pier that extends from the point where the “Bridge of the Virgins”once connected the two sides of the river.
The choice of materials plays an important role, as exposed concrete with a structural function contrasts with the lightness of the U-glass cladding system that creates an internally illuminated environment generously but not directly by sunlight, thus preserving the works of the artist and making the interior space an evocative environment.
Top View
Model Top View
North-East Axonometry
South-West Axonometry
Ground
External View from the roof
Internal view of the museum
Relation with heritage and modern
The seeds of this project were sown through a vibrant partnership with MRUV Project Aps (Multipurpose Research Universities Vessels Project), striving to cultivate a treasure trove of universal scientific wisdom aimed at safeguarding and elevating the Mediterranean marine ecosystem. At its core lies research, the mighty cornerstone essential for instigating a transformative journey rooted in innovation, progress, and sustainability.
Envisioned as a beacon of advancement, the association’s paramount objective is to construct a cutting-edge, versatile research vessel. Its purpose extends beyond scientific inquiry, seeking to disseminate research findings and foster community awareness, catalyzing essential shifts in climate consciousness and cultural evolution.
The setting for this visionary endeavor is the Tesoni delle Galeazze at the Arsenale—a majestic and robust architectural testament to bygone industrial prowess, now bearing the patina of time’s passage. While these structures hold steadfast to tradition and history, this groundbreaking project ingeniously intertwines itself within this nostalgic backdrop, birthing a future that blooms from the very essence of tradition, propelled by the science it embodies.
The metamorphosis of the Tese will center on crafting a hub dedicated to marine and underwater research, complemented by auxiliary functions catering to naval endeavors. It’s a fusion of heritage and cutting-edge innovation, where the past and future converge in a harmonious dance of scientific exploration and adaptation.
Master Plan
First Floor
Isometric Representations
The design task was to contribute to the detailed design and production of an innovative timber pavilion in the Frihamnen area for Gothenburg’s 400th anniversary. The pavilion will be made of Birch Wood, have a free form, and use digital techniques for design, development, and manufacturing. The project aimed to demonstrate the potential of birch for innovative structures and raise public awareness for sustainable utilization of alternative wood species. The structure will be a temporary pavilion in Frihamnen during Gothenburg’s 400th anniversary in 2023.
The aditional task was develop a designs for reusing the pavilion as a kiosk in Brunnsparken. The design will use birch timber, as a grid shell construction using cassette frames, and cladding made from ocean plastic waste. The client wants the pavilion to be designed for re-use. The challenge is to envision a design for the timber structural cassette-based system as a kiosk while also developing the design of the main exhibition pavilion.
Exterior View + Interior View
Contruction Process Ground
Reciprocal Shell
The Reciprocal shell was designed and built by a team of researchers and students from Chalmers University of Technology and Augsburg University of Applied Sciences. The demonstrator is a lightweight freeform structure, optimized for fabrication and assembly. The production process is completely carried out with only a saw blade, which allows for very fast and precise cuts.
The primary topology of the shell are planar polygonal facets where always 3 edges are joined, therefore a constant distance offset for the thickness of the shell is possible. Within these polygonal segments, cross bracing is achieved through a reciprocal configuration of wood beams. Due to the freeform geometry of structurally optimal shell shapes, diagonals within the polygons cannot directly connect corners. Joining the cross-bracing elements in the center of the polygons with a reciprocal node allows for stronger joints compared to connecting 5,6 or 7 beams in a single point. This allows for strong nodes throughout the structure, without the use of metal plates or brackets.
The fabrication process creates only a minimal amount of offcuts and allows for the use of simple and cost efficient, short solid wood pieces. It is ideal for hardwood uses. After the design and build workshop, the structure will be load tested and then completed with a transparent roof cover. Finally, it will be exhibited as part of the 400 year anniversary festival of the city of Gothenburg.
Construction Video: LINK
Designboom Article: LINK
Korsvägen new urban jungle
The heartbeat of Gothenburg, the city’s grand welcoming embrace for all international travelers, resides unequivocally at Korsvägen. It stands tall as the premier gateway, greeting visitors upon their arrival with an ensemble of vivacity and movement. Beyond being a mere intersection for trams and buses, this area pulsates with a vibrant energy, owing to its proximity to diverse attractions.
As the city unfurls its plans for urban development, a visionary project named Västlänken, an underground train station at Korsvägen linked to Centralstation, looms on the horizon. With such impending complexity and heightened traffic, the challenge lies in preserving the essence of this space amidst its transformation into more than a mere transient thoroughfare.
My proposal delves into the essence of Korsvägen itself, intricately weaving gateways and connections into its fabric. Employing a method akin to a wooden stacking process, the structure organically mirrors the contours of the area, streets, and pathways. A geometrical grid, adaptable and rotating, orchestrates an optimal arrangement of wood, visually echoing the expansive crossing at the heart of this locality.
This project aspires to emulate a bustling jungle, mirroring the labyrinthine connections within the building. It unfolds across two levels: the ground floor, a bustling hub of high-speed mobility; and the elevated second level, where space and voids carve their own narrative. Here, one can leisurely unwind or conveniently procure tickets and essentials for upcoming journeys—a harmonious blend of functionality and repose, nestled within the architectural marvel.
Master Plan
Interior view of the waiting area
View of Korsvägen looking at Gothia Towers
Section of Korsvägen looking at Lisberg
Disposals and Transformations
My Master’s Thesis examines the economic, social, and spatial transformations within the Chair District in Friuli Venezia Giulia, a region in Northeastern Italy known for its historical chair manufacturing industry. It explores the decline and repurposing of industrial areas, focusing on causes of industrial abandonment, strategies for reuse, and the broader implications for the local territory and economy.
The work provides an overview of the economic history and societal roles of industrial districts in Northern Italy, with a specific focus on the evolution and significance of the Chair District. It then delves into the crisis and deindustrialization, analyzing the factors leading to industrial decline and presenting case studies.
The thesis then examines the characteristics and future of industrial sheds, detailing their construction and distribution while proposing potential strategies for repurposing these structures for new uses. It investigates land use changes in the district, including the growth of industrial areas and the current state of urban voids, and discusses policies and initiatives to facilitate the transformation of disused industrial sites.
A study of the local industrial real estate market is included, highlighting leasing trends and market data, and exploring the impact of industrial decline on real estate values and opportunities for redevelopment. The exploration of various reuse scenarios for industrial sheds includes both temporary and permanent solutions, with examples of successful reuse projects within the Province of Udine.
The thesis provides underscores the importance of strategic planning and innovative reuse in mitigating the adverse effects of industrial decline. By transforming abandoned industrial sites into productive assets, which can foster economic revitalization and cultural renewal.
Sheds Diagrams + on-site photography
Some famous chairs produced in the Chair District
Anon Parot / Cell
Philippe Bestenheider / Isomera
Christophe de la Fontaine / Gazelle
Jacopo Maria Giagnoni / Lisa Werther Toffoloni / Vincent V.G.
Piero Palange e Werther Toffoloni / Hoop
Max Fabiani / Dondolo Modello 267
Residential Areas
Industrial Areas/Buildings
Mixed buildings
PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
During my studies at the IUAV University in Venice, I encountered many stimuli that allowed me to grow and deepen my understanding of architecture. I have learnt a lot over the years and now I am confident in my desire to pursue a career in architecture.
I have also discovered new passions, such as photography, which accompanies me every day and motivates me to study and broaden my cultural background. The progress and technological development within the industry fascinates me and keeps me interested, which I believe is essential, especially in our field. My experiences in architectural offices, as well as my time at IUAV University and Chalmers University of Technology, have enriched me even after graduation.
As I am about to start my professional career, I am aware that I may have some gaps in my knowledge, but this does not scare me. I am excited to start and to be part of a team where I can learn and develop my potential.
These last two pages are a small excerpt of who I am: a person who likes to explore and vary his interests, and who pays attention to detail in everything he does. Whether it’s a simple drawing, a model or a painting, I do my best to achieve the best result.
Au cours de mes études à l’Université IUAV de Venise, j’ai rencontré de nombreux stimuli qui m’ont permis de grandir et d’approfondir ma compréhension de l’architecture. J’ai beaucoup appris au fil des années et je suis désormais confiant dans mon désir de poursuivre une carrière en architecture.
J’ai également découvert de nouvelles passions, comme la photographie, qui m’accompagne au quotidien et me motive à étudier et à élargir mon bagage culturel. Les progrès et l’évolution technologique au sein de l’industrie me fascinent et maintiennent mon intérêt, ce que je trouve vital, surtout dans notre domaine. Mes expériences dans des bureaux d’architecture, ainsi que mon séjour à l’Université IUAV et à l’Université de technologie Chalmers, m’ont enrichi, même après la conclusion de mes études.
A l’approche du début de ma carrière professionnelle, je suis conscient que j’ai peut-être quelques lacunes, mais cela ne me fait pas peur. Je suis ravi de commencer et de faire partie d’une équipe où je peux apprendre et continuer à développer mon potentiel.
Ces deux dernières pages sont un petit extrait de qui je suis : une personne qui aime explorer et varier ses intérêts et qui prend soin des détails de tout ce qu’elle fait. Qu’il s’agisse d’un simple dessin, d’une maquette ou d’une photo, je mets tout en œuvre pour obtenir le meilleur résultat.
Digital rapresentation, model making and prototype, photography
