Maria Duda, b. 1981, is an architect. MA Graduate of the Accademia di Architettura di Mendrisio in 2007, she holds a PhD in Architecture, on public spaces of Bucharest. Her professional experience started off in Switzerland – with internships within Aurelio Galfetti architectural studio, Mario Botta Architetti, and expanded with Brauen & Wälchli Architectes. Since 2009 she has been independently researching, documenting, teaching and getting involved in the use and improvement of public spaces. Upon returning to native Bucharest, she co-founded BAZA. Deschidem orașul, a cultural and educational NGO dedicated to connecting young professionals, conducting urban research and promoting “Little Improvements” through architectural and artistic interventions, workshops, events, conferences, publishing. The mirroring architectural studio, of the same name, is actively implementing urban design, true to inventing life and improving city conditions, beyond conventions. Currently, Maria Duda has been focusing on public policies, governance models and co-creation methods for improving the quality and performance of public spaces, serving as working member of the Public Space group within the UIA, for the 2023 -2026 mandate.
