Contemporary Evolution of Italian Architecture
Combining technical expertise with rigorous design methodology, UPA Italia by Paolo Lettieri Architects delivers Italian architectural practices and interior design services to a global clientele, developing high-performance buildings and spatial solutions tailored to complex international standards.
Founded by Italian architect Paolo Lettieri, UPA Italia operates as the European practice of the international UPA (Urbanism Planning Architecture) group, which maintains established offices in Milan, Abu Dhabi, and Baghdad. The firm utilizes a multidisciplinary team of specialized architects to provide comprehensive architectural planning and engineering services across multiple sectors.
Established Methodologies in Architectural Design
The studio operates through a structured, phased workflow that integrates architectural compliance, structural efficiency, and project management to ensure accurate execution and predictable project outcomes.
The firm’s portfolio includes large-scale and complex architectural projects requiring specialized technical solutions. From initial conceptual blueprints to detailed execution plans, the practice prioritizes meticulous technical oversight, enabling the successful management of multifaceted, high-specification developments.
Integrated Interior Architecture and Spatial Design
These architectural standards are systematically applied to the firm's interior design division. The studio develops functional and ergonomic indoor environments, collaborating with selected qualified contractors and specialized international artisans.
The interior design process combines precise craftsmanship with custom detailing, integrating high-end fixtures and furniture specifications from certified Italian manufacturing brands to deliver cohesive and durable interior environments.
Featured projects
Auditorium of VGIK
Moscow | Russian Federation
UPA Italia by Paolo Lettieri Architects was commissioned to design a multi-purpose auditorium engineered for dual acoustic performance as a cinema and a concert hall. The hall integrates an automated system of revolving acoustic panels, digitally controlled by sensors and dedicated software to alter the room's reverberation metrics based on the event type. The geometric, organic ceiling structure is mathematically optimized to ensure precise acoustic refraction and sound distribution throughout the space.
Ladies Club
Abu Dhabi | United Arab Emirates
Designed to integrate with its waterfront lagoon context, this master plan utilizes a fluid, organic layout inspired by floral geometries to organize its extensive programmatic requirements. The complex spans multiple specialized facilities, including an outdoor swimming pool, solarium, dining venues, a kindergarten, fitness centers, and a music school. The architectural framework balances curvilinear structural forms with high-specification natural materials to ensure durability and aesthetic cohesion.
Villa
Abu Dhabi | United Arab Emirates
This contemporary, minimalist residential villa is engineered to optimize privacy and security while maximizing coastal views. The architectural volume establishes structural balance on a rectangular plot, utilizing solid, truncated cone geometries on the street-facing elevation for privacy, contrasted with expansive glazing and continuous deep balconies on the sea-facing facade. Distributed over three levels, the layout prioritizes large-span residential spaces, integrated amenities, and dedicated wellness zones.
Global clients, diverse projects
By coordinating an international network of architectural professionals, engineering consultants, and technical experts, UPA Italia by Paolo Lettieri Architects delivers scalable architectural solutions across diverse sectors, including healthcare facilities, educational institutions, commercial auditoriums, and private residential developments.
The firm executes cross-border projects for institutional and private clients across Europe and the Middle East—with an established portfolio in Italy, the UAE, Iraq, Qatar Jordan, Switzerland, Azerbaijian, Kyrgyzstan and Russia. Services encompass full-cycle project delivery, including architectural design, structural engineering, site supervision, and project management.
Awards and selected publications
UPA’s international portfolio has been recognized with industry accolades, including the Arabian Property Awards, the IDA Design Awards, and selections as finalists for the LEAF Awards. The firm's built work across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia is regularly documented in peer-reviewed architectural journals, monograph books, and specialized design media.
Project Alignment and Technical Execution.
Our practice provides comprehensive architectural and engineering services aligned with your technical, budgetary, and timeline requirements. Submit your project briefs and development goals via the communication form below to schedule a technical consultation.