Jobaaj Stories
Massimiliano Fuksas: A Life in Architecture
Massimiliano Fuksas, the internationally acclaimed Italian architect, has a story as captivating as his buildings. His recently released autobiography, "It Was a Coincidence," reveals a fascinating life journey, filled with unexpected turns and encounters with some of the 20th century's most influential figures.
A Life Less Ordinary
Born in Rome in 1944 to a Lithuanian father and French mother, Fuksas's early life was shaped by both personal and political turmoil. His father, a Jew from a wealthy Lithuanian family, converted to Catholicism to marry his mother due to Italy's fascist racial laws. This experience instilled in Fuksas a deep-seated leftist ideology, shaped further by his grandfather's rebellious act of tearing up his children's fascist uniforms.
His youth was rich with encounters. He recounts his days at Virgilio high school, where he played soccer with Bernardo Bertolucci and befriended Pier Paolo Pasolini. These formative years provided a backdrop of intellectual and political engagement, leading him to participate in the 1968 student protests in Rome.
- Unexpected Path to Architecture: While initially aiming for a career in philosophy, Fuksas's mother suggested architecture, a path he took almost on a whim. This serendipitous decision led him to a diverse range of experiences, including working as an ice loader in Milan, a construction worker in Germany, and even a pizza maker in Denmark. His travels broadened his worldview and influenced his future designs.
- Political Involvement: Fuksas's leftist ideals extended to active political involvement, including a trip to Cuba where he encountered Che Guevara. He even received an invitation from Kim Il-Sung to visit North Korea, an invitation he declined.
- Notable Encounters: His life intertwined with many prominent figures, including Giorgio Armani, Renzo Piano (his Parisian neighbor), and Silvio Berlusconi. His experiences with these individuals offer glimpses into the intersection of art, politics, and business in Italy.
Fuksas's architectural partnership with his wife, Doriana Mandrelli, is a testament to their shared vision and complementary strengths. He describes Doriana as the "flowers and leaves" to his "strong but rigid trunk," a harmonious balance of creativity and structure.
Architectural Vision
Fuksas's architectural work is as diverse and impactful as his personal history. His projects range from urban planning to infrastructure projects globally. One standout example is the Gelendzhik Airport in Russia, a remarkable structure that seamlessly blends functionality with artistic expression. The airport received a 2024 International Architecture Award, highlighting its innovative and sustainable design.
- Gelendzhik Airport: This award-winning project demonstrates Fuksas's commitment to sustainable design and integration with the surrounding environment. The airport's design incorporates local materials, energy-efficient features, and extensive landscaping.
- Collaboration and Innovation: Fuksas's studio, known for its collaborative approach, pushes the boundaries of architectural design, incorporating advanced technologies and sustainable practices.
Conclusion
Massimiliano Fuksas's life is a testament to the power of chance, the importance of personal convictions, and the enduring impact of creative vision. His journey, from a politically active youth to an internationally recognized architect, inspires and challenges our perceptions of success, proving that extraordinary achievements can arise from the most unexpected beginnings. His architectural legacy, shaped by diverse experiences and innovative collaborations, continues to reshape our understanding of the built environment.
