MANOnellaMANO

MANO nella MANO“ is our design proposal that works hand in hand to revitalize the Venice lagoon. Our concept is based on creating a multifunctional modular dock system with including a redesign of the current traditional Vaporetto stations in the heart of Venice. Our project is focusing on identity and sustainability, which are related to an iceberg concept, in the sense that they have a dual function. Providing a social solution above the water and an environmental solution below the surface, connected through the concept that the design is floating. As Venice is facing different problems due to overtourism and water pollution our design is driven to offer solutions that grow by time and that goes hand in hand with the environmental and social context. ABOVE THE WATER SURFACE: Due to the mass tourism and huge crowds, Venice sidewalks and waiting areas for the vaporettos are becoming more and more uncomfortable. We found a reasonable solution in our modular dock system, that aims to extend the sidewalks by providing a floating public space that can be placed depending on its space. While our redesign for the main vaporetto stations focuses on identity to become more integrated in its cultural heritage, without overtaking its surroundings. UNDERNEATH THE WATER SURFACE: Water was the source of settlements, rivers were the heart of cities, where most of the trade and transport was happening, nowadays urbanisation has transformed the way we use water sources in cities and degraded them. The consequences are water pollution and displacement of underwater wild life. Our holistic approach continious below the water surface and underneath our floating design. Biomatrix Water is a company making this Dynamic Biofilter Media. It is made of synthetic fibre material that is woven into meter long columns using stainless steel wires. This material provides a smooth surface for bacteria to colonize and grow into algae areas. These algae and other micro-organisms produce oxygen, break down pollution and provide feeding grounds for a bustling and vivid underwater wildlife. In addition these micro-organism columns create underwater “barriers”, working as natural reducers for turbulent waves, a similar ecology to the marsh Venice is set in. Nature knows how to take of itself, and these nature based solutions allow nature to perform under its natural ecology. Focusing on the conservation of biodiversity and creating a possibility for a selfdeveloping ecosystem, where water comes back to life.