The Firm
Design rigour, technological innovation, cultural depth
Maurizio Barberio, PhD
Co-founder and Business Developer
Maurizio Barberio is an architect and PhD holder. After graduating in Architecture from the Polytechnic University of Bari (2014), he obtained his PhD in Architecture from the Roma Tre University – Polytechnic University of Bari consortium (2018), focusing on the relationship between digital design and traditional building techniques, particularly in the innovation of stone stereotomy. Since 2020, he has been working with the Polytechnic University of Bari as Knowledge Transfer Manager, where he is responsible for technology transfer, evaluating IP protection strategies and managing open innovation programmes. In May 2026, following years of collaboration, he was appointed Director of the Polytechnic’s incubator, Boosting Innovation in Poliba. In the AEC sector, his work focuses on computational design, digital fabrication and sustainable construction methods, with a particular emphasis on the integration of advanced digital technologies and innovative production processes. He has taught at the Polytechnic University of Bari and is the author of over 40 scientific publications.
Micaela Colella, PhD
Co-founder and Head of Design
Micaela Colella is an architect and holds a PhD. She graduated in Architecture from the Polytechnic University of Bari (2014) and obtained her PhD in Architectural Design from the Roma Tre University – Polytechnic University of Bari consortium (2018), specialising in the modernisation of 4.0 prefabricated systems using natural materials for sustainable architecture in the Mediterranean context. She has taught Digital Design and Digital Fabrication at the School of Specialisation at the Polytechnic University of Bari and has exhibited design prototypes at the Salone del Mobile in Milan (2014 and 2016) and at various editions of Marmomac. Her research explores the integration of principles, materials and techniques from local building traditions with design and technological innovation, with a particular focus on sustainable architecture. Since 2025, she has taken charge of all the studio’s projects and represents the studio as lead architect in all design competitions, including the Polymnia Futura project, which received a Special Mention at Europan 18. She is the author of over 25 scientific publications on sustainable architecture, innovative prefabrication and digital design.
The history of the practice
Barberio Colella Architetti was founded in 2018 as a result of the collaboration between Maurizio Barberio and Micaela Colella, which began during their university years and developed through research, prototyping and academic teaching. The practice operates in the fields of architecture, interior design and contemporary construction systems, focusing on the quality of space and the coherence between concept, material and process.
Alongside architectural projects, the practice develops building components and solutions, experiments with advanced prefabrication techniques, and combines digital expertise with traditional craftsmanship to tackle challenges that require control, precision and the ability to manage complexity. Much of this work stems from collaborations with companies and research centres keen to translate experimentation and innovation into practical applications.
The firm’s work also includes publications and academic papers, with research focusing on contemporary design processes and the evolution of construction techniques. Among their most recent works are Architettura 4.0 (Maggioli Editore) and Architecture and Design for Industry 4.0 (Springer Nature). In parallel, Barberio and Colella have gained teaching experience at the Polytechnic University of Bari, strengthening the link between practice and research.
Awards and accolades
Italian Sustainable Architecture Award – Fassa Bortolo
New Italian Blood Award 2021
A' Design Award
World Architecture Community Award