At the advent of ‘zerobeyond – the new frontier!’ we had stated very clearly that we are here to set new benchmarks – Benchmarks that would be replicated by others by walking on our footprints, which we have been etching since the last 46 plus months. Each editorial, interview, showcase and feature has not only covered the three fields – architecture, engineering and interiors – but also has been crafted to generate awareness, educate, inspire and uplift the spirit of the younger generation. It is indeed gratifying to see renowned architecture firm Foster + Partners simulating our GEN Z Series format to promote their younger generation of professionals on their official website.
It is much more interesting to see Romanian architect Amalia Radasanu, whom we had featured first on the 23rd of June 2023 in our GEN Z Series, was featured recently by Foster + Partners on their website. It fills a sense of pride and indeed overwhelming to see similar format (questions) was asked in her interview. ‘zerobeyond – the new frontier!’ has created a niche in promoting the younger generation of professionals through our most popular GEN Z Series.
Integrating Heritage Cascina with New Industry
The GEN Z Series travels from Indonesia to Italy to interact with a very talented and creative Indian Landscape Architecture Master’s student Anushri Mali. She is currently pursuing Master of Science – Sustainable Architecture and Landscape Design and will be graduating in September 2025 from Politecnico di Milano. Anushri Mali informs, “I grew up in a humble, close-knit family where education was always prioritized. My father, an engineer, ensured that I had access to the best educational opportunities, while my mother, a homemaker, inspired me to dream big and work towards realizing those dreams. Their constant support and encouragement to participate in various competitions and creative quests throughout my childhood instilled in me a strong sense of confidence and resilience.”
From the onset, Anushri Mali has had an inclination with profound vision to create sustainable and climate-resilient structures in her pursuit. She enthuses, “During my internship in Ladakh, India, I worked on building a community housing with sustainable earth materials, empowering local labor and fostering community engagement. My path further evolved during my time in Auroville. I witnessed regenerative urbanism grounded in decentralized infrastructure and community-driven values. These experiences deepened my belief in architecture as a means to restore ecosystems and nurture community well-being. At Politecnico di Milano, I continue to expand this vision through projects like ‘Integrating Industries and Ecosystems, addressing ecological resilience and sustainable urban planning’.”
Design Interventions and Guidelines
Johnny D has a lively interaction with the Indian architect Anushri Mali about her quest and group project ‘Re-integrating the Landscapes: Connecting Industrial and Environmental Systems’.
What was your childhood ambition? Have you always wanted to become a Landscape Architect?
In my childhood, I spent most of my time with my grandparents in rural India. I was always outgoing, extroverted and always curious about my surroundings. I would walk barefoot through endless fields, holding my grandfather’s hand (smiles). I even learned to swim in a countryside river. That deep connection with nature grew stronger over time, making city life feel disconnected and suffocating. I often wondered why these two worlds ‘nature and urbanity’ were so profoundly different.
Vision for Service Boulevard
State the reason(s) as to why you chose to become a Landscape Architect with a special inclination towards urban planning.
After over three years of experience as an architect working on diverse projects, I began gravitating towards urban and landscape design. This shift was inspired by my involvement in projects such as ‘Urban and Landscape Regeneration in Milan and Territories of Production – Narratives and Transformations’. The field offered a broader perspective addressing entire ecosystems and large-scale spatial strategies. It allowed me to focus on creating resilient, ecologically integrated spaces that respond to both environmental and social needs.
Landscape Park for Riparian Commons
How has Urban and Landscape Design influenced your life as a student?
Urban and landscape design have shaped my perspective, emphasizing the connection between nature, built environments and people. It fuels my commitment to sustainable design, thereby influencing my daily choices and professional values. I have gained a deeper understanding of how to transform urban challenges into climate-resilient solutions.
Piacenza’s Industrial and Natural Landscapes
Briefly tell us about your University and the Master’s Course.
I am pursuing my Master’s in Sustainable Architecture and Landscape Design at Politecnico di Milano. The interdisciplinary program fosters collaboration with experts in sociology, agronomy, and ecology, enriching my learning through workshops and study trips. The university also offers exchange programs and real-world projects, providing valuable experience and networking opportunities that enhance learning beyond the classroom.
Agricultural Park in Industrial Grounds
Having completed your B. Arch from Savitribai Phule Pune University, India, what was the most challenging thing you had to experience to pursue your Masters at Politecnico di Milano in Italy?
Adapting to a completely new cultural and academic environment was my biggest challenge. Transitioning from a familiar education system to a globally recognized, research-intensive program required adjusting to new teaching methods and interdisciplinary collaboration. However, this challenge has pushed me to equip myself with a broader skill set, become more adaptable and stay current with climate-responsive design strategies.
Agricultural Park Integration
Briefly describe the significance of your project.
Project: Re-integrating the Landscapes: Connecting Industrial and Environmental Systems
Project by: Anushri, Ana Paula, Jana and Katia
Location: Piacenza, Italy.
Over time, Piacenza has evolved from a Roman city into a walled settlement, with agricultural systems surrounding its edges. Its strategic location has attracted not only global logistics and manufacturing industries, but also offering economic growth with significant challenges. Rapid industrial expansion has caused environmental degradation, health concerns, reduced biodiversity, and threats to historical and natural heritage. Industries now encroach upon vital ecological corridors – like the Nure Stream and Po River, thereby heightening pollution, flood risks and ecological disruption.
Master Plan – Transforming Industrial Edge of the Territory
Our project aims to balance industry, nature and agriculture through a strategy of ‘re-integrating the landscape’, reclaiming underused and abandoned spaces to establish a connected network of green and public areas. Proposals include: Conserving biodiversity in agricultural zones near ecological corridors and establishing buffer zones between industry and farmland to mitigate environmental impacts.
As an Intern, what is the most important lesson(s) you have learned from senior architects / planners, while being a part of a project?
During my internships across various organizations, I learned the significance of context-sensitive design understanding that each site and community needs a unique and thoughtful approach. Engaging in collaborative discussions with professionals highlighted how clear communication and teamwork drive more integration and impactful design outcomes.
Fragmented Landscapes Reintegrating Piacenza
Which National or International architect / urban planner has inspired / influenced you? Please specify as to why?
Karl Ganser inspires me for his transformative work in the Ruhr River Development in Germany. His projects re-imagined post-industrial landscapes into vibrant public spaces, ecological reserves and cultural hubs. His commitment to ecological restoration and community engagement resonates with my aspiration to rejuvenate neglected spaces.
30-Year Action Plan
What are the current prospects and challenges of jobs’ opportunities for fresh young architects / landscape architects in Milan, Italy? Elucidate briefly.
The job market for young architects and urban planners in Milan is promising in areas – such as sustainable landscape design, adaptive reuse and urban regeneration. Adapting to these realities and continuously upgrading skills is essential for career growth in Milan.
Development of Structural Scheme
Against the ethos of the architecture field, ‘Hostile Architecture’ has become an eyesore and fast changing the urban landscape of prominent cities around the world. Elucidate your perspectives about this unwanted trend in the urban landscape.
This trend of hostile architecture reflects a growing discomfort with addressing social issues through inclusive and long-term solutions. As designers, our responsibility lies in creating environments that are welcoming, equitable and socially responsive.
Bus Stand Shelter, Piacenza – Iconic Hostile Architecture
Flawed urban planning in the past has seen major cities of the world getting inundated due to ‘Climate Crises’. How can present urban planners rectify the flaws to make cities safe from getting flooded year after year?
One of the most impactful approaches is prioritizing de-sealing and down-zoning of urban areas. Modern cities need to enhance surface permeability and soften urban edges to reduce heat islands and improve water absorption. Integrating bioswales can effectively manage runoff, prevent flooding and restore ecological balance, thereby making cities more resilient to climate-induced challenges.
Service Boulevard
Which significant aspects of the global platform ‘zerobeyond – the new frontier!’ did you liked the most, and why?
I appreciate ‘zerobeyond – the new frontier!’ for providing a platform for young professionals to share unique stories. It values fresh perspectives, fostering inclusivity and innovation, thereby enriching global conversations with diverse ideas.
Strategic Vision for Piacenza
What is the most significant aspect of urban planning that every urban planner – renowned or new comers – should adhere to implement while master planning? Elucidate your views.
The most impactful aspect of urban and landscape design lies in creating healthier and more sustainable future for all. Designers can embrace master planning that goes beyond serving human needs in isolation and instead focus on integrating living ecosystems, where they coexist harmoniously with nature.
Looking at the past in the present, what are the futuristic architectural changes you would like to see in your home city / town? Elucidate the reasons for your vision.
Pune is expanding rapidly, but this growth often leads to environmental destruction. Future planning should prioritize preserving natural habitats, integrating green spaces and promoting harmony between nature and development
Biosphere Trail Air Quality Buffer
How would you describe Milan’s Urban Planning with its specialties and flaws?
Milan skillfully balances historical preservation and modern innovation. Its sustainable transport network is exemplary, but many landscapes remain underutilized. Our design challenge re-imagined these spaces as service kiosks for delivery drivers – transforming forgotten areas into vibrant community hubs.
Sections – Reintegration of Landscapes
Honours and awards related to architecture, if any.
Special Mention of academic work – ‘Quick read Design manual of the book – Vistaar – Architecture of India’ by Council of Architecture, India;
Special Mention for academic work – ‘Playmorf – Form and Structure’ by ITECH, University of Stuttgart and Karamba 3D.
Image Courtesy: Anushri Mali