The peripheral location of the Scuola Grande della Misericordia
and its huge dimensions make it a unique example of Venetian
architecture although it does actually have – with the two
wings above that are linked by the monumental staircase –
the typical characteristics that are similar to the other Scuole
Grandi; exposed on three sides and visible from a distance, it
was already unusual and out of scale in the sixteenth century,
when it was constructed to a design by Jacopo Sansovino. The
bold ambitions of the clients and their architect accentuated
the ceremonial importance of the scenography, which foresaw
the two entrances from the water and land, the broad
staircase and natural light to great effect for the brothers’
solemn processions. Today, light flows into the evocative
rooms of the newly-restored Scuola Grande through the
same large windows, which have been restyled with slim
0S2 75 profiles in burnished brass. In the refurbishment
of this extraordinary building, one that has housed the most
diverse activities over the years, after having restored the
structure, suitable equipment was installed to guarantee
a flexible, and multifunctional use of the rooms.