Giovanni Mandelli

Consultant

I graduated in Architecture at the Polytechnic University of Milan. During my studies, I realized that I was much more interested in the design of public spaces and how people move within the city than in buildings. The most formative experience was my Erasmus year in Ghent, where I experienced firsthand the benefits of living in a city where it’s easy to get around by bike, on foot, or using public transport. When I returned to Italy, I realized there is a lot of untapped potential, and the quality of our cities could improve significantly, starting from mobility systems.
I live in Milan and prefer to work “close” to home; that’s why I worked for four years in Reggio Emilia, focusing on active mobility policies for the municipality. Now I’m here in Turin, dealing with the same issues but from a new perspective.

What exactly do you work on at Decisio?

At Decisio, I focus on the design of cycling infrastructure and public space, putting people—especially the most vulnerable—at the center. I also contribute to planning at various territorial levels, both provincial and municipal. I enjoy creating content for social media, sharing the vision of a “sustainable city” and promoting a cultural change starting from mobility habits.

What is the request you get the most often from your colleagues?

I’ve just arrived, but the question I get most often is, “How would you do it?” regarding a cycling project or how to create a social media pos

And besides work?

I enjoy exploring new places, especially if they are not overly crowded or famous. I prefer to do this by bike or on foot, as these modes of travel allow me to experience the environment at the right pace and immerse myself in the context without filters or barriers.
From time to time, I like to stroll through cities—both new ones and those I already know—without a specific destination, letting myself be inspired by what I see and hear, just as the Flâneur did in the 19th century.

A project of which you are particularly fond?

There isn’t a specific project since I’ve just arrived (I’ve mentioned that, right?), but every time I find myself designing a new cycling route or public space, I imagine the direct and indirect effects it will have on people’s daily lives.

“Working at Decisio” in one word?

Welcoming.
I felt welcomed at Decisio right from the start, which is not something to be taken for granted.