The words ‘modern’, ‘contemporary’ and ‘cutting edge’ may not immediately spring to mind at the mention of the city of Venice, but even this magically historic metropolis, which at first glance appears so resistant to change, has embraced the new with a number of contemporary projects and pieces of architecture. Of course, this is not to say that we should dismiss the charming beauty of its countless historic piazze, canali, musei and basiliche, but rather embrace the interesting blend of old and new. As such we have discovered five of the most fascinating ‘new’ additions to the original city of water:
1. Residential building in La Giudecca
In stark contrast to the more traditional Venetian housing with their rustic facades, this new residential building on the island of La Guidecca makes a somewhat refreshing change. Created by Cino Zucchi Architects, it replaces an existing building between two canals, forming part of a larger urban plan around the city. As a nod to typical Venetian architecture however, traditional materials and techniques have been used, with the white Istria stone cornice bordering the windows to create a ‘graphic’ motif.
2. Swiss Pavilion for the Venice Biennale
The Swiss Pavilion was designed by competition winner, Bruno Giacometti at the Venice Biennale. Comprising of two main halls, the image below shows the larger hall which features a modern, metallic roof which allows light and shadow to be cast inside.
3. Sculpture Garden for the Venice Biennale
Originally designed in 1932 by Duilo Torres, the Sculpture Garden was created within a patio of the Italian Pavilion in 1952 by Carlo Scarpa. The project was designed to play with shadow, light and water, with three heavy, oval columns constructed to support a canopy roof. Having been recently restored, it breathes new light into a city of old.
4. A Gathering Space
Venice’s ‘gathering space’ sculpture was designed by Gareth Hoskins Architects in 2008 after winning a competition to create a standalone pavilion at 2008’s Venice Architecture Biennale. The structure stands at 7m high and features a partially cantilevered set of steps created entirely from Scottish larch, holding up to 200 people. Underneath, an enclosed area can facilitate up to another 100 people as a contemporary ‘gathering space’. Its minimalistic, modern shape makes a real impact on the more traditional surrounding area.
5. Nordic Countries Pavilion for the Venice Biennale
Norwegian competition winner, Sverre Fehn created the Nordic Countries Pavilion for the Venice Biennale, which was completed in 1962. Consisting of a 400sqm rectangular hall which is exposed on both sides, the roof combines two overlapping layers of concrete beams with tree trunks towering through. Designed to reflect the ‘disappearing transition between interior and exterior’, the construction has both aesthetic appeal and carries an artistic message.
For more information on the history, architecture and restaurants in Venice, check out these online travel guides.
