REVIVE CERTOSA
The Venetian Lagoon is rich with a unique biosphere and a long history of settlement. However, the city is grappling with a housing crisis due to the tourism boom and the rise of Airbnb. This shift is pushing many long-term residents out of the city. While Venice is fortunately not yet another Coney Island, bringing back residents, especially the youth, is crucial to keeping the city vibrant and alive.
Though a long-term solution is still uncertain, we propose addressing the student housing crisis in Venice as a first step. Students represent a unique category of residents. They spend significantly more time in the city than the average tourist and are therefore more invested in their surroundings. Moreover, as predominantly young people, they infuse the area with energy and vitality.
Instead of constructing new housing on the main island, we suggest utilizing nearby islands, such as Certosa Island, for student accommodation. The challenge lies in overcoming the limitations of island living, which we can address by enhancing transportation networks and providing ample facilities. Additionally, living in a more natural environment, students will learn to coexist with the lagoon’s wildlife and appreciate the lagoon as a living habitat, rather than just an open-air museum. Who knows, they might even choose to make this place their permanent home in the future.
While there are already several approaches for circulation on Certosa Island, we have decided to minimize construction by dividing the island into two distinct areas: a densely built zone and a natural wilderness. These zones are separated by a pedestrian pathway that traces an existing diagonal route, running from the vaporetto stop to the edge of the island and following the existing wall.
The compression of space is not just a functional decision. By limiting the construction area, we create an atmosphere that contrasts with the vastness of the ground, sky, and the continuous expansion of the wall. This makes the shelters in this area evoke a sense of home and comfort amidst the openness. The idea of compression and openness is inspired by the small framing gates in the wall, which serve as a fascinating cornerstone for shaping the island’s ambiance.
This axis forms a triangular tip and a long strip of space along the existing bunker. Although the shape is irregular, it is spacious enough for a residential compound and a multifunctional court. These two areas also facilitate a smooth transition from a quieter zone to a more public space, making the shift feel more natural and inviting.
CROSS SECTION , 1:150
LONG SECTION, 1:150
