What will become of the Fondaco dei Tedeschi in Venice?

Often seen in the background of photos taken on the Rialto Bridge, one of Venice's iconic landmarks, the Fondaco dei Tedeschi is once again in the spotlight due to its closure - at least in its current form.  The building, which dates back to 1228, is one of the fondaci (or fondeghi in dialect), structures used to store goods brought into the city by merchants. Destroyed by fire in the 16th century and promptly rebuilt, it was later used as a customs house under Napoleon and for a long time as a post office. In 2008 it became the property of Benetton and is currently managed by the Italian branch of DFS, an international luxury goods distributor in which LVMH holds a majority stake.  

The Fondaco dei Tedeschi is highly stratified, reflecting the various transformations it has undergone over the years as its functions have evolved. In its original form, the square building even housed frescoes by Titian and Giorgione, most of which were removed and moved elsewhere due to severe damage caused by prolonged exposure to weather and humidity. The building also bears the marks of 20th century adaptations, including the characteristic concrete that unmistakably dates the interventions. 

In 2016, the Fondaco underwent a major restoration project led by OMA, focusing on strategic pathways and vertical circulation, with each precise intervention conceived as an excavation into the existing mass. One of the most notable changes is the roof, derived from the restoration of the 19th-century pavilion, and the addition of a terrace offering a panoramic view of the city.  In its current configuration, the Fondaco dei Tedeschi combines luxury shopping – with major brands like Gucci, Bottega Veneta, and Yves Saint Laurent – and culture, promoting exhibitions and installations such as the Collettivo Sbagliato’s contribution to the 2023 Venice Architecture Biennale.