PRP Now! Gabriela Fuentes // Renzo Piano Building Workshop
Tell us about your PRP firm. Where are you working?
I am working at Renzo Piano Building Workshop in Genoa, Italy. It is a beautiful office designed by Renzo Piano at the top of a hill along the Italian Riviera.
Do you enjoy the city you’re working in? Favorite aspects?
I live in a small Italian town called Vesima, right next to the larger city of Genoa in the Liguria region of Italy. I am one short train ride away from Portofino, Cinque Terre, Milan, and Pisa. I love that I get to experience small town Italian life while still living super close to a big city. Genoa isn't too much of a touristy place, which can be a little challenging at times since not too many people speak English, but it's so worth it! My favorite aspect of my current home is the beach. One of the most beautiful beaches I've ever seen is literal steps from my front door.
What is currently on your desk? What are you working on?
I am working on the Tsientang University in Hangzhou, China. The office is tasked with designing the entirety of the campus, all 23 buildings, on a green and hilly landscape next to the Tsientang River. My desk is currently filled with topography models and circulation diagrams which I'm working on.
PRP: Describe the firm culture? The office atmosphere?
The firm is filled with impressive and hardworking people. Some of the most knowledgeable people I've ever met. However, everyone is still very approachable and talkative. On the first day we were introduced to each and every person, and they took us out for Aperol spritz and aperitivos. There are daily morning coffee breaks, everyone eats lunch together on the terrace or beachside garden. Coworkers often hangout together outside of work, and we even got invited to go shopping in the city with the girls!
What is the first thing you'll tell your classmates upon your return to UT?
The first thing I will tell my classmates is about how cool Renzo Piano is! He is at the office often and interacts with all the people at the firm. He is very funny and I've been lucky enough to be part of pin ups and meetings with him. I am very grateful I have been able to watch him create his legendary sketches!
As you’re finishing up the week, what are your plans for this weekend?
This weekend two of my fellow interns and I will be going to Venice to attend La Biennale di Venezia. I am told by my coworkers that this is an Italian must do. A few weekends ago my roommate and I went to Portofino and Milan for the weekend. Soon we will be going to Pisa . The Italian train system is not very punctual, but it is incredibly effective at getting you to all of the country's most beautiful places.
