The lure of Venice's history, famous for its mercantile trade and unique architecture, is blended with a touch of modernity and sustainability in the design of the Nave de Vero. This unique shopping center, located in Marghera (VE) along the SS Romea, was officially opened in April 2014, but its design and concept still make it a groundbreaking work.
The main inspiration behind the design was to represent the history of Venetian commerce and its affinity with the sea. "The Ship" is the central component of the complex's main entrance. This tall and majestic structure recalls the image of a ship at sea. The use of glass, called "Vero" in Venetian dialect, is essential in the design, with a tall glass atrium in the shape of a ship emerging dramatically from the building.
The facades of the mall, made of special porcelain ceramics, evoke the sides of a ship's hull and reflect sunlight, recalling the flow of a bow wave. This play of reflections lends a dynamic and lively appearance to the structure, capturing the attention of anyone passing in front of it.
Homage to the Lighthouse of Chania
Inside the mall, visitors are greeted by a central element called "the Lighthouse." This particular architectural element is a tribute to the Lighthouse of Chania, built in Crete by the Venetians in the 14th century. In addition to recalling Venice's maritime history and heritage, the Lighthouse also serves as a guide for visitors to the different areas of the mall.
The functional layout of the mall is also a tribute to Venice, reproducing the city map in a way that creates an immersive experience for visitors who can feel as if they are exploring the streets of Venice itself.
An Example of Sustainability
In addition to its architectural and historical inspiration, Nave de Vero is also notable for its commitment to environmental sustainability. It was one of the first shopping centers in Italy to achieve BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) certification, one of the most rigorous environmental assessment protocols internationally. This recognition testifies to the project's commitment to reducing its environmental impact and adopting sustainable practices in its development and operation.
Transparent and colorful fronts blend harmoniously with their surroundings, helping to create a pleasant and elegant atmosphere for visitors. The glazed roofs of the mall were made with a Schüco FW50+ mullion and transom system, while the most distinctive element, the 32-meter diameter dome of the restaurant area with a transparent and opaque panel system, offers a striking and unique aesthetic impact.
Ten years after its inauguration, Nave de Vero remains a cutting-edge shopping center that is always current and innovative. Its unique architectural concept, with a mix of historic and modern elements, continues to capture the imagination of visitors and offer a one-of-a-kind shopping and entertainment experience.
The Nave de Vero project is an example of how the past can be beautifully integrated into the present, creating a meeting point between Venice's history and modern innovation. A place where design and sustainability come together, making it one of the most fascinating and environmentally sustainable shopping centers in Europe.
CUSTOMER
Moretti Contract
LOCALITY.
Marghera (VE)
Italy
DESCRIPTION
Continuous facade
Skylights and roofing
Railings
8,002 sq. m.
DESIGNER
Tecnostudio
YEAR
2016