Irene Curulli

Dr. Irene Curulli serves as Associate Professor of Practice in Landscape Architecture at Virginia Tech's School of Design, leveraging over twenty years of professional experience in architecture and landscape architecture. Her research centers on the transformation of dismissed industrial landscapes, particularly through the lens of post-industrial 'Water Wise Landscapes' (WWL) where heritage, water, and climate change intersect.

Her educational foundation includes:

• Ph.D. in Architecture, University of Naples Federico II (Italy)
• Postgraduate studies, The Berlage Institute Amsterdam (Netherlands)
• Master of Landscape Architecture, Wageningen University & Research (Netherlands)
• Master of Architecture, Mediterranea University of Reggio Calabria (Italy)

Curulli's scholarly work emphasizes industrial waterscapes, climate-resilient design, and heritage conservation in post-industrial contexts. She champions interdisciplinary exchange through ERASMUS+ projects funded by the European Commission, exploring synergies between research, design, and professional practice. Her teaching integrates community engagement with climate adaptation strategies.

Analysis of her 15 most recent publications reveals a consistent trajectory from foundational studies on industrial canal zones (e.g., Brabant B5) to contemporary investigations of climate justice and trans-boundary river systems. Key thematic threads include water-sensitive urban design, ecological restoration of industrial sites, and social dimensions of environmental disasters.

Her scientific recognition includes:

• Lawrence Halprin Fellowship (Cornell University)
• Best Master Docent award (Eindhoven University of Technology)
• Multiple international competition prizes including Festival International des Jardins (France)
• Best Paper Award (German University in Cairo)

As an educator, Curulli coordinates international workshops and ERASMUS+ collaborations while teaching core courses like Landscape Architecture Theory (LAR 4254/5253) and Site Program & Community Design Studio (LAR 3016). Her research is supported by European Commission grants and manifests through the Industrial Waterways initiative documenting global case studies.

Her Industrial Waterways research platform showcases ongoing projects including Brabant B5 Canal Zones, Climate Adaptive Architecture studios, and international workshops like ELIR 2011, demonstrating applied research bridging academic theory and professional practice.