A London-based architectural firm has commemorated two victims of the Grenfell Tower fire by establishing a program aimed at assisting Italian graduates in architecture to gain work and study opportunities in the UK.

Architect Gloria Trevisan relocated from Italy to England with her partner, fellow architect Marco Gottardi. Tragically, they both perished in the catastrophic fire at Grenfell Tower, which resulted in the loss of 72 lives.

Gloria had recently begun her position at Peregrine Bryant Architects, where she contributed to the initial design team for the refurbishment of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, residence of the Chelsea Pensioners.

She had been on-site the day before the fire and never had the opportunity to witness the project’s completion.

At 26, Gloria had moved to England following her graduation from the International University of Architecture in Venice. She and Marco resided in an apartment on the top floor of Grenfell Tower.

Peregrine Bryant expressed that he was “extremely impressed” by Gloria’s portfolio when she applied to his firm, which focuses on preserving historic buildings.

“We collectively agreed it was one of the finest applications we have ever received,” he remarked.

After her interview, Gloria was promptly offered a position and commenced work on the Royal Hospital Chelsea project.

Colleague Laura Mourgante reminisces about a visit to the Chelsea site with Gloria, who was enthusiastic about her life in Grenfell Tower and her work in conservation.

“We spent the day there,” remembers Laura. “She shared with me, ‘I have a beautiful flat, stunning views of London, and I feel so fortunate.'”

Laura recalls leaving that day with a sense of joy, knowing how fulfilled Gloria felt, despite missing her parents, as she dedicated herself to her conservation work.

That evening, Gloria stayed late at the office, finalizing initial drawings for the Soane Stable Yard project.

However, she did not return to the firm the next day.

According to Laura, who had only known Gloria a short time, her last day was spent “engaged in something she adored.”

Peregrine notes, “Although Gloria’s time with us was brief, we cherish the memories we have of her.”

In the aftermath of the tragedy, the firm initiated a scholarship program to foster connections between Italian and British conservation practices.

Even though Marco worked at a separate architectural firm in London, they established The Gloria e Marco Award to honor the “two exceptionally skilled young architects.”

“Gloria and Marco will forever hold a place in our hearts,” Peregrine lamented. “Their memory will be honored by our practice with profound sadness, but we are striving to create something positive from our loss.”

The award provides Italian architecture graduates the chance to work and study in the UK for a period of two to three months.

Thus far, graduates have participated in architectural conservation projects across England and Scotland with organizations such as the National Trust, Historic England, and the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings.

Peregrine stated: “We believe that fostering an exchange of ideas in their memory is a profoundly positive endeavor.”

“Gloria brought us her insights here [in the UK], and Marco did the same, and we are committed to continuing that legacy.”

Laura emphasized, “It is crucial for us to pursue this initiative, and we intend to do so with all of our strength for as long as we can.”

Many graduates have come from the International University of Architecture in Venice, the same institution that Gloria and Marco attended.

Prof. Sara Di Resta, who taught both, remarked: “It is essential to remember not only the tragedy but also the aspirations of Marco and Gloria, as this initiative is a manifestation of their dreams continuing with other young people.”

GeM Award trustee Andrea Bruffato, a close friend of the couple, noted that this program plays a vital role in “shifting the focus from their tragic end to the vibrant lives they lived.”

Originally designed by Sir Christopher Wren in the 17th Century, the Royal Hospital Chelsea’s stables were later added by Sir John Soane in the 19th Century, who is also known for designing the Bank of England.

These stables once served as housing for the horses and carriages of the Royal Hospital staff. Some structures suffered damage during World War II and were unused for years.

The refurbishment that Gloria had begun work on was completed last year and is now flourishing.

The Soane Stable Yard now features a café, gift shop, and a museum dedicated to the history of the Chelsea Pensioners.

Peregrine shared, “Being here brings back memories of Gloria, who was instrumental in initiating this process.”

I presented photographs of the completed project to Gloria’s and Marco’s families in Italy.

Gloria’s mother, Emanuela Disaro, expressed “incredible pride” for her daughter and her involvement in such a significant project.

“I am so proud,” remarked Gloria’s father, Loris Trevisan. “Witnessing the project’s evolution from inception to completion is truly impressive.”

Marco’s father, Giannino Gottardi, stated: “This is a stunning restoration of a vital historic structure and serves to keep Gloria’s memory alive.”

A representative for the Royal Hospital Chelsea affirmed: “Ms. Trevisan’s contribution to the project holds great significance for us, and our thoughts are with her family and friends.”