The Cruise Terminal of Pellestrina

The Cruise Terminal of Pellestrina addresses Venice’s urgent challenges of rising sea levels and mounting tourism pressure, which threaten both the lagoon’s fragile ecology and the city’s historic fabric. In response to the Italian Ministry of Transport’s proposal to reroute cruise ships through Pellestrina, this project envisions more than a terminal—it imagines a new civic gateway.



Elevated 11 feet above ground, the building anticipates flooding and sea-level rise over the next 50 years. Its sweeping BIPV-integrated roof not only collects rainwater but also generates renewable energy, transforming the terminal into a self-sufficient infrastructure. Rainwater is filtered and reused for daily operations and irrigation, while solar power supports building systems and reduces reliance on external energy sources. A high-performance low-iron glass façade further enhances daylighting and thermal efficiency, ensuring visual and environmental performance.



Beyond resilience, the project creates a layered public realm: integrated circulation systems connect land, sea, and pedestrian flows, while shaded arcades and plazas foster wellness, community, and cultural exchange. By combining renewable energy, water recycling, and climate-responsive design, The Cruise Terminal of Pellestrina redefines infrastructure as a catalyst for sustainable waterfront living and positions Venice as a leader in resilient urban design.