Internationally recognised firm for its excellence in the curation of exhibitions and designing of communication spaces, Migliore + Servetto recently completed the headquarters of the Human Safety Net located on the ground floor of the Procuratie Vecchie in Piazza San Marco in Venice.
The 3000 sqm project comprises a conceptual exhibition path offering an immersive experience of the Generali Group, a cafe, a co-working area reserved for the foundation’s activities, and event spaces that dot the auditorium. Curated as per user-behaviour patterns and needs, the project seeks an innovative approach, translating the concept into an integrated intervention ranging from graphics, spatial and lighting design, creation of digital content and all the interactions.
Visualised by the architects as a gradual development of experiences taking the form of a prologue, act, and epilogue that take visitors on a journey of self-discovery, imparting social and behavioural values identified by curators Orna Cohen and Andreas Heinecke of DSE - Dialogue for Social Enterprise.
The materialisation and content reflect Venetian-ness owing to the collaboration with local artisans. The furnishings and room divisions are integrated with the existing architecture to enhance the division of the Procuratie's top floor's architectural volumes. Using materials like glass, copper, wood, and mirrors, they in turn, also allude to the rich Venetian heritage.
The typical Venetian bricole (oak wood poles used in the lagoon to trace the navigable paths) is reimagined as the framework for one of the exhibition installations. The natural wood benches in the café are reminiscent of those in vintage Venetian cafés. The designs of the carpets portray a rework of classic motifs like the murrine millefiori or the ornate arches of the Doge's Palace.
Therefore, the project establishes a link with the old city while interweaving the various spaces, objects, and people, encouraging the flow of ideas, stories, and interactions.
