My name is Valentina Cottafava,
and every now and then,
I turn upside down
Or sideways,
lying on the floor,
sometimes I write on impulse about whatever comes to mind,
I listen to music,
I talk to myself with a tape measure in hand...
anything
that
can help me
spark my creativity!
After about a decade of experience gained within various architecture firms,
VALE.CI.ARCHITETTURA was born in 2025.
WHY
me?
A giant of Architecture once said
"Nobody cares about Architecture anymore."
And it’s true.
Now more than ever, we live in a world that moves "at the speed of light."
We rush, we rush... they make us believe that we no longer have time,
that we must always be at the "top",
and above all, achieve that "top" instantly and at the lowest possible price...
The result?
Buildings like sculptures completely detached from their context, budgets out of control, poor quality of work and materials (often due to carelessness or lack of time), disorganization, unfulfilled promises, and a resulting general discontent.
STOP!
I want to go against the grain, returning to listening, to patience, to precision, and above all, to time.
As professionals, we have a moral responsibility for what we leave to future generations,
and I believe this is the only way to create something that is,
first and foremost, USEFUL,
that WORKS,
and, as the cherry on top,
is also BEAUTIFUL to look at!
Ours is a beautiful and highly demanding job, yet so much is done to undervalue it...
However, when done the right way and with the right timing, it can be incredibly rewarding.
Phase 1: Listening & Analysis
I never start designing without fully understanding the client's needs.
I take all the time necessary to study the context and current regulations, evaluating the pros and cons.
If I am not 100% convinced of something, I never overcommit. A lie told just to make a good impression does far more damage than an honest "NO."
Phase 2: Design
Nothing is left to chance.
I define materials, costs, and details before a single brick is laid.
Every phase of the project is managed with consistency and dedication, backed by qualified and competent professionals. I devote the right resources to the preliminary phase to guarantee a surprise - free execution.
Phase 3: The Construction Site
Thanks to the groundwork done beforehand, the construction phase runs smoothly; I always strive to ensure constant site supervision.
If there is a problem that can be fixed on-site, I don't go home until it's resolved. Otherwise, I either use logic to find an immediate solution or take the time to research the matter properly.
WHERE I
shine
Too often, clients are treated as just a number.
I prefer to take on fewer projects, focusing on doing them well and dedicating my full attention to each one.