Contemplative shots of buildings, structures and scenic landscapes combine with interviews of Tuscany’s 20 best architects in Tuscanyness, a new documentary from 120g. Consisting of young architects and engineers from Italy, this Pisa-based cultural association has released the documentary online (yes, for free)! You can watch it here or here. Keep reading for more on this beautifully shot film directed by Andrea Crudeli, its important messages, and a collection of images that will make you want to start watching immediately…

*All images in today’s post are taken from Tuscanyness

The Tuscanyness Experience

Tuscanyness takes viewers on a journey of discovery. Not only does it thoughtfully explore the challenges faced by current Italian architects, it celebrates the beauty of the region and ultimately provides a hopeful call to action. Long, sweeping shots of the landscape and grand architecture provide a stunning context for the concerns at hand. In this way, the message of the film is passionately expressed.

As viewers quickly fall in love with the land and buildings on-screen, the challenges depicted in the film are given true poignancy. At the same time, viewers feel like they’ve been on a meaningful, tranquil retreat, a getaway of sorts.

The challenge faced by today’s Tuscan architects: Issues such as the redevelopment of suburbs, property speculation, the loss of appreciation for beauty in daily life, and local architects emigrating abroad have created a profit-driven environment where architecture is created “without concern or passion”.

Topics such as “landscape” and “beauty” are discussed in terms of their role in Tuscan architecture, from the way they are valued in the culture to the way that cherishing them may be the key to uniting nature and mankind through architectural works.

Not only are the most important buildings of the region filmed for Tuscanyness, so are works of art that drive home the importance of the pursuit of beauty when it comes to architecture. These shots give insight into the culture, including its values and history.

Poignant Details

Just as in the realm of Tuscan architecture, there is beauty in the details when it comes to Tuscanyness. Many grand shots of the buildings and the landscape appear, but the close-ups of architectural details that range from the Romanesque to the contemporary are equally captivating. It is in these quiet moments that we discover the magic of Tuscan architecture. When lines and curves blend with ornate details and empty space. When creations come to life as far shots gradually becomes close-ups.

Modern design lovers will appreciate the way Tuscanyness highlights contemporary creations in all of their grand, unfussy glory. In fact, they truly complement the landscape as effectively as Tuscan architecture of the distant past. In this revelation lies a key concept: humility. It is when architects truly listen to their surroundings that something timeless is created. It’s about thoughtful design, discovering the soul of the location. As mentioned in the film, “…every soulful action will forever hold beauty. And if it is done coherently with the present conditions, it will become immortal.”

The most inspiring aspect of the film is the way it places hope in the current generation, who has the power to stay, share a passion for architecture, and create a cultural renaissance. We could talk about this hopeful message at length, but it’s more effectively experienced through a viewing of the documentary!

For more on the past, present and future of Tuscan architecture, do yourself a favor and watch Tuscanyness. A big thank you to Andrea Crudeli and 120g for inspiring us with their beautifully crafted film.