The structure’s integrity will be restored through the restoration of original features and elements, while the interior spaces will be reunified to introduce clarity to the building. The restoration will involve the recuperation of original Venetian materials and craftsmanship from local tradespeople.
The works are integrated with the current progression of a 2009 project by Gretchen Harnischfeger Alexander, which includes the renovation of the main façade on Piazza San Marco, structural interventions, and a new fire protection system.
Description of project by David Chipperfield Architects
The renovation of the historic Procuratie Vecchie building on Piazza San Marco in Venice has been granted planning permission by the Municipality of Venice. For the first time in 500 years, a large part of the building will be made accessible to the public. It will host the activities of The Human Safety Net, the charitable foundation of Italian insurance company Generali.
The project is not defined by a single concept or architectural gesture, but by a series of interventions that address the complexity of the work. These include the restoration of the first and second floors, the reorganisation of accessibility and usability of the building through the inclusion of new staircases, and the renewed central entrance on the third floor with access to the raised courtyards. The third floor will include exhibition spaces open to the public and linked to The Human Safety Net, as well as work spaces and an auditorium. David Chipperfield Architects Milan was selected by Generali to restore the sixteenth century building in 2017 after an international competition.
