About RVA
Founded in Umbria in 1983 and led today by Riccardo Vicarelli, RVA has grown into an international architecture and design & build practice with teams in Dubai, London and Umbria.
Each location brings a deep understanding of its own market, while every project reflects the same design culture, enacting Made in Italy standards throughout the entire process.
Inside RVA
Our multidisciplinary team brings architecture, interiors and delivery into one coordinated practice. Expertise is shared across locations, while every project responds to its people, setting and local requirements.
This balance of international perspective and local knowledge creates continuity, and a consistent standard of design.
Our Origin
RVA was founded in Umbria in 1983 by architect Claudio Vicarelli, establishing a design culture shaped by Italian craftsmanship and a knack for observing how people live.
Today, his son Riccardo Vicarelli leads the practice across Umbria, London and Dubai, remaining personally involved in the creative direction and defining decisions of projects in every location. Under his leadership, RVA has evolved into an international, multidisciplinary team carrying the same standards into every project.
The journey
Take a peek at the defining moments, projects and decisions that have shaped RVA’s evolution and continue to guide the practice today.
Architect Claudio Vicarelli, Riccardo’s father, establishes the family practice in Umbria, shaping a design culture rooted in Italian craftsmanship.
Close knowledge of the landscape, architectural heritage and local building traditions continues to define RVA’s work in Umbria.
Riccardo Vicarelli introduces RVA’s Italian design culture to London, developing residential and selected commercial projects across the UK.
RVA enters the UAE market with an integrated team delivering architecture, interiors and complete fit-out projects under one roof.
Across three locations, RVA brings together local expertise and a shared Italian design culture, delivering every project with the same commitment to quality.
Founder & Lead Architect
As RVA’s Lead Architect, Riccardo guides the creative direction of projects across every location, bringing a refined European sensibility shaped by his Italian background. His approach is defined by balanced proportions, timeless elegance and close attention to how each space will be lived in.
Personally involved in the defining decisions, he listens closely and often translates initial ideas into hand-drawn concepts before guiding them towards a clear, buildable solution. This ensures the original vision remains present through to completion.
Our values
We take time to understand each client’s priorities, ensuring the project begins with a clear and shared direction.
Every design is shaped around the people who will experience it, rather than a predetermined house style.
We approach each project with care and accountability, remaining closely involved in the decisions that define the final result.
Thoughtful, timely communication creates confidence and keeps the process moving with clarity.
Honesty and respect guide how we work with clients, consultants, craftspeople and partners.
Method
A clear path from the first brief to life after handover.
Stage 01 / 08
We define your priorities, the project scope and its feasibility, establishing a clear direction before design begins.
Our team
Riccardo Vicarelli — Director | Senior Architect
Director | Senior Architect
Civil Engineer | Partner
Senior Architect | Partner
Civil Engineer | Partner
Civil Engineer | Partner
Architect SAR/MSA | Partner
Construction Manager | Partner
Construction Manager | Partner
Construction Manager | Partner
Construction Manager
Civil Engineer
Junior Architect
Junior Architect
Architectural Assistant
Building Surveyor
3D Visualiser
Designer
Designer
Designer
Project Manager
Marketing & Communication Manager
Administration Manager
FAQs
Architecture designed around the way you live.
Riccardo Vicarelli — Founder & Lead Architect