I am very pleased to have the opportunity to write a letter of recommendation for Wladimir Pulupa Sanguña, architect, researcher and teacher with whom I had the pleasure of working since he was involved in the Master in Advanced Architecture at the ETSAM School of Architecture at the Polytechnic University of Madrid
Wladimir worked as a junior researcher in the exploration group I lead, the GIVCO Collective Housing Research Group, where we developed the research project "Housetag" commissioned by the Ministry of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda, that was published in a book titled Housetag. European Collective Housing 2000-2021. In this first publication, he worked in the production of graphic material and in the final coordination with the editor.
Based on the same research, the Madrid-based ICO Museum asked us to develop an exhibition entitled "Domestic Dawns" that was open from October 5, 2022 to January 15, 2023, with an extraordinary reception from the general and specialized public. In this second stage, his commitment was greater, developing all the areas to carry out the exhibition: selection of projects, redrawing of three-dimensional drawings of each of the 28 selected projects, contact with studios and photographers, preparation of technical graphic documentation for the exhibition hall, monitoring and support during construction management, and support for the team of curators and the graphic designer in terms of the production of documentation for the exhibition catalogue
Wladimir is an extremely dedicated scholar who handles all responsibilities in a professional and engaging manner, going above and beyond any requirement. He has an incredible ability to develop wonderful architectural ideas and good skills to communicate and cooperate with other colleagues in a team work.
Therefore, I can give my warmest recommendations to Wladimir Pulupa and I would be delighted to answer any additional questions regarding his performance as a junior architect and researcher
Yours sincerely,
Carmen Espegel
Chair Professor of Architectural Design
ETSAM - UPM
To whom it might concern,
Wladimir Pulupa has collaborated with MASS LAB as an Architect , both independently as well as integrated in various team members, in several office projects and competition proposals from November 2022 until September 2024.
One of the key highlights of Wladimir contributions was h is elaboration and execution of Masterplans His ability to manage large -scale urban projects is a clear example of integrated and sustainable planning skills. Wladimir also develop experience in housing (São Ciro Project, in Portugal) and mixed -use projets (Train Factory, in Finland), where his approach to integrate different functions within an urban space was very important
Moreover, Wladimir collaborated extensively with the architectural team to ensure a cohesive alignment between the project and client requirements .
Wladimir ’s support was also instrumental in submitting the necessary procedures for the licensing and approval of the allotment operation in the municipality.
His attention to detail and ability to bridge disciplines proved invaluable to achieving a wellcoordinated and holistic design.
Wladimir has a great personality and has a profound interest in the design and planning process. We had the opportunity to enjoy h is dedication, commitment, positive energy and motivation while with him Wladimir is a diligent individual and proved to be a n amazing team member, much appreciated by his colleagues.
We believe that the work experience carried out by Wladimir in our office has been very positive and, thanks to h is working abilities and human qualities, we are happy to recommend h im for any experience he wishes to undertake in other offices or institution s
Sincerely,
DIOGO DE SOUSA MONTEIRO DA ROCHA Founding Partner @ MASS LAB
+ FREELAND_Intensive Production System at Lisbon Airport
Instructor: Fernando Rodriguez Fernandez _FRPO Architects
The airport becomes a productive space developed in three interconnected operations of different scales. A productive landscape inside the runway and on its new perimeter, taking advantage of the porous (soil), floodable and paved areas, a new logistical ring of plant and exchange that mixes people and technology, and a reorganization of Terminal I with an assembly of new floors and ceilings, converted into a multi-programmatic space where different layers of use converge throughout the day. These scenarios use natural resources and the airport’s own logic to show how alternative intervention modelscan harness land value and internal partnerships to generate systemic change.
INTEGRATING LISBON’S NATURAL RESOURCES INTO AIRPORT REDEVELOPMENT
The redevelopment of Lisbon Airport presents a unique opportunity to integrate the city’s natural resources into urban planning, creating a sustainable and harmonious space that responds to both environmental and functional needs. Incorporating Lisbon’s rich natural landscapes, such as the Tagus River, local green spaces and native flora, the airport can not only minimise its ecological impact, but also enhance the passenger experience.
THE AIRPORT INTO A PRODUCTIVE LANDSCAPE
This proposal activates the airport and its surroundings as a network of productive spaces. By reusing underutilised areas, new agricultural zones emerge to supply fresh food locally, reducing dependence on external sources. A logistics ring improves distribution, while Terminal I is transformed into a multi-use centre that encourages sustainable urban growth.
TRANSFORMING
LISBON AIRPORT TRANSFORMATION - PRODUCTIVE LANDSCAPE AND NEW LOGISTICAL RING
Tubular metal structure formed by an upper truss and supports on the floor slab. The ribs rest on it and support the 4 diaphanous levels, elevated above the first floor. It favors the perceptive observation of the whole by multiplying the points of view.
As a climatic strategy, a façade enclosure has been developed based on two skins with different types of glass that form a thermal cushion throughout the entire building. The openings allow the interior temperature to be controlled both in summer and winter.
The vertical communication loops located in the central axis every 30m. free the interior space to the maximum. It has access stairs and elevators for general use.Secondary toilet and evacuation stairways are placed at each change of functional program.
Last level formed by a raised floor. Cultural space for public use, 9.80 m high, independent of the lower logistic levels.
D4_ROOF ASSEMBLY WITH EXTERNAL ENCLOSURE
Metal logistic distribution core that connects the upper levels with the lower ones, placed in the central axis to optimize the time of arrival and collection in terms of distance and time.
The envelope at the level of the logistic spaces has a glazed glass that allows to appreciate from the outside the movements of the interior.
Metal frames, anchored and welded in 6 parts. They cast shadow on the glazed facade. From the upper part it allows to visualize the exterior in both directions.
Level 0. Maintenance of the existing asphalt pavement and special treatment in the new bicycle lanes. Conservation of existing porous areas and renaturation.
D4_ ENCOUNTER OF SLAB WITH EXTERNAL STRUCTURE
The logistics distribution level, with screen walls, a foundation slab, and a multilayer anti-slip floor, is in direct contact with underground distribution tunnels that connect to the airport exit.
D3_DETAIL OF EXTERNAL SUPPORT ANCHORED TO FLOOR SLAB
+ CSPM_Centre des Sciences Physiques et Mathématiques
International competition (32.000 m2). MASSLAB
Nominated work: 3º Prize. 2025
Location: Université de Genève (CSPM) - Geneve, Switzerland
My role: Project leader (1ºphase)
A new architectural vision integrated into the urban, social and landscape dynamics of the city of Geneva. A through a series of spatial, structural and environmental strategies, the design enhances both the form and function of the building, making it a key element of the urban landscape. It makes a significant contribution to the development of the university campus and reflects a commitment to innovation, sustainability and architectural tradition.The building respects its context, focusing on materiality, precision and adaptability. It is not conceived as a rigid structure, but as a flexible and evolving organism capable of responding to changing circumstances over time. Reflecting the dynamic nature of the city, the building becomes part of a larger system in which architecture, science and urban life are deeply interconnected.
Integration of the proposal with the campus green spaces and the Arve River, creating a vibrant and connected environment that enhances both the urban life of the neighborhood and public accessibility for students.
printed model. Preparation and assembly.
THE FUTURE OF GENEVA’S URBAN LANDSCAPE
+ HERDADE DA BARROSINHA _Agricultural Heritage
International competition (2.000 hectares). OODA+MASSLAB`+P4
M y role: Urban designer, Physical model making, Computational Design
How can urban development strategies balance sustainability with the preservation of cultural and historical heritage?
The proposal proposes the regeneration of the village at a programmatic, urban and landscaping level. The programme will be distributed in rings, according to the type of occupation. Each of the rings has a circular itinerary associated with it, which interconnects with the other itineraries. In the first ring, the occupation is essentially with first dwellings. This first ring is served by the mini-loop, a circuit of about 2 kilometres linking two holiday villages, each with a facility. This ring is served by the middle loop, a route of about 9 km. In the fourth ring we have planned nature tourism programmes, namely glamping in a mixed forest area, wine tourism integrated in the vineyard and several watchtowers located at notable points.
LANDSCAPE SUPPORT WATER ROAD NETWORK CENTRES OF OCCUPATION ECOLOGICAL CORRIDORS NETWORK
M y role: Project leader, Urban designer, Physical model making
I led the design and development of Regen Maia, an urban planning initiative based on the principles of the regenerative city concept. The project focused on creating a sustainable and resilient urban environment that balanced urban growth with environmental preservation. Working with a site-specific approach, we emphasised slow car circulation and pedestrian-friendly spaces to foster a harmonious coexistence between nature and human activities. One of the main challenges was to design a new landmark for Maia that would be visible from the surrounding villages, without relying on height. The solution: a horizontal and circular neighbourhood that reimagines the fifth façade, transforming an empty green space into a cohesive urban area. This project not only responds to the local context, but also sets a new standard for environmentally friendly urban planning.
A. CONNECTIVITY
We prioritised connectivity through bike lanes, pedestrian paths and green flows, ensuring a sustainable and inclusive urban environment fully integrated into the existing urban network.
B. URBAN INTEGRATION
With an emphasis on pedestrian zones and sustainable growth, we developed a circular neighbourhood that revitalises vacant green spaces while maintaining environmental harmony.
C.URBAN LIVING
It offers a mix of services, retail and residential space, including flats, studios and villas. The development also integrates educational and sports areas, designed to promote a balanced and environmentally friendly lifestyle.
A VISION FOR SUSTAINABLE URBAN TRANSFORMATION
The proposal introduces agricultural areas, with crops and green spaces that not only improve the city’s ecological footprint, but also encourage local food production and sustainability. The integration of these ecological elements, such as green roofs, water retention systems and biodiversity corridors, ensures that the new development fosters a healthier and more resilient urban ecosystem. This thoughtful adaptation brings nature back into the city, enriching its physical and social landscapes.
My role: Computational Design, Structural Design, 3D Modeling
The vision for the Train Factory will enhance and build upon the rich cultural heritage of the area, which hosts relevant historical buildings and large public spaces. A place where there is space for both an active life and a quiet retreat. A new tinyforest combined with a thriving multi-level public space will become a destination in the city, inviting visitors with a full offering of cultural life, sports, and leisure activities. A strategy based on a unique blend of special cultural heritage and forward-thinking solutions, where the ambition is to set an example that contributes to the sustainable aspirations of the municipality and benefits everyone in the city by generating a variety of public spaces that can be used all year around.
C.
TOWERS, A DIVERSE VERTICAL PROGRAMME:
The towers rise above the podium and vary in height and function: they house office, residential and mixed-use programmes. Each tower is designed with a hybrid concrete and steel structural system, ensuring flexibility and efficiency. The facades are clad in local stone and handcrafted bricks, reinforcing the connection to regional materials and enhancing the sustainability and aesthetic identity of the building.
B. GROUND FLOOR, “STRUCTURAL BUBBLES” AND PODIUM:
The ground floor is characterized by an innovative system of metal “structural bubbles” that support the large green podium above. This elevated landscape serves as a public space, blending nature and architecture while providing structural efficiency. The base of the podium is clad with a combination of wood panels and perforated facades that ensure a dynamic and permeable urban presence.
A. THE FOUNDATION:
The foundation serves as the main structural support, anchoring the entire building. A hybrid system of reinforced concrete and steel ensures stability, effectively distributing loads over the ground. Deep foundations and reinforced cores provide seismic resistance and durability, laying the foundation for the vertical development of the project.
+ ADRO_Affordable Housing São Ciro
International competition (20.000 m2). MASSLAB.
Nominated work: 1º Prize. Winner competition. Under construction. 2023
Location: Lisbon, Portugal
My role: Design Research, Masterplan Design, 3D Modeling
With a strong focus on creating a “people-oriented city”, the basic principle of the proposal revolves around the intrinsic relationship between the built mass and public spaces: advocating the design of public space before private space. To emphasise this vision, the proposal starts with two generous public areas: a lush green garden and a stable paved plaza. Although seemingly contrasting in nature, these spaces complement each other harmoniously when experienced together. The garden’s organic design offers multiple sensory experiences by making use of water features, topography, lighting, vegetation and visual connectivity. The plaza, on the other hand, provides a more structured and functional space, serving as a flexible area for events, meetings and everyday interactions. Together, these spaces form the heart of the project, fostering social engagement and a sense of community.
1. USE OF RENEWABLE AND LOCALLY SOURCED MATERIALS
The use of locally sourced renewable materials, such as wood, promotes sustainability and reduces environmental impact. Wood, traditionally used in Portugal, has low greenhouse gas emissions.
2. OPTIMISING CONSTRUCTION TIME WITH PREFABRICATION
The combination of prefabrication and CLT technology offers time and cost savings as well as environmental benefits. CLT panels are manufactured off-site with high precision, reducing on-site construction time.
3. INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE AND RENEWABLE MATERIALS
Timber was chosen as the primary building material, reflecting our commitment to sustainability and honouring the site’s historical connection to timber structures.
Nominated work: Finalist FAD Thought & Criticism. 2023
Location: Museum ICO. Madrid, Spain
My role: Project Researcher, 3D Modeling, International Communication
During my participation in the Collective Housing Research Group (GIVCO) at ETSAM, I collaborated in the development of the research project ‘Housetag’, commissioned by the Ministry of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda of Madrid, contributing to the production of graphic material and the editorial coordination of the publication “Housetag. European Collective Housing 2000-2021”. Subsequently, I actively participated in the exhibition “Domestic Dawns” at the ICO Museum in Madrid, assuming the elaboration of drawings, management of contacts with studios and photographers, production of technical documentation and the monitoring of the installation. My work in both initiatives reinforced my capacity for research, graphic representation and coordination in multidisciplinary architectural projects.
METHODOLOGY
Based on the study of 54 carefully selected cases, the book contains a detailed classification of the different types of European collective housing that have emerged during the first two decades of the 21st century, and brings together, in its almost 500 pages, photographs and plans that allow us to identify the different concepts present in them. These sessions by the research group focused on European collective housing, allowing them to participate in discussions, research and analysis. They played an important role in the production of graphic material and the editorial coordination of the publication.
