Valentina Soana

Valentina Soana’s research is highly interdisciplinary, situated at the intersection of robotics, architecture, art, and engineering. She develops lightweight, shape-morphing robotic structures that integrate material and robotic intelligence to create adaptive environments, redefining the relationship between humans, space, and technology. With a background in architecture, robotics, and engineering, she is currently an academic and researcher at University College London, working across the Architecture and Engineering Departments.

Her work has been presented at leading conferences in science, structural engineering, physics, robotics, and architecture, and has been featured in exhibitions, including the Venice Biennale.

During the fellowship, Valentina will explore the performative potential of soft, shape-morphing robotic structures in responsive environments. Moving beyond purely technical and structural design, she will investigate how these systems can enhance spatial experience through movement, sound, atmosphere, and emotional engagement.

Through experimental prototypes, she aims to examine how material intelligence and interaction can transform the way we perceive and inhabit space.