Conference “Waterfront: Islands. Frontier territories”

Conference “Island Waterfronts: Where the Sea Meets Innovation”

Studio Marco Piva presents the fifth edition of WATERFRONTS, a conference series organized in collaboration with the Venice Boat Show, dedicated to the regeneration of waterfronts and sustainable urban development.

This year’s central theme is ISLANDS—fascinating lands that have inspired literature, art, and cinema for centuries. They are places of arrival and departure, of cultural convergence, and are increasingly at the crossroads of environmental, social, and economic challenges.

The conference explores, through the voices of academic researchers, experts, and fellow designers, the key themes involved in enhancing island waterfronts as vital resources for local communities—balancing economic growth with environmental preservation.

Critical issues such as coastal erosion and rising sea levels caused by climate change will be addressed, along with innovative solutions to enhance the resilience of coastal areas. Sustainable design will take center stage, with a focus on cutting-edge technologies for water management, renewable energy integration, and eco-friendly construction materials.

Design strategies must aim to minimize harm to marine biodiversity and water quality, ensuring these unique areas remain appealing for both residents and visitors while preserving their natural balance. Advanced technologies are vital in achieving environmental sustainability—supporting wastewater treatment, reducing fossil fuel dependency through renewable energy, and minimizing solid waste by using recyclable or biodegradable construction materials.

Official conference of the Venice Boat Show 2025
Curated by: Studio Marco Piva
Format: In-person and live-streamed on the Venezia Unica platform

Moderators

• Arch. Marco Piva – Co-founder, Studio Marco Piva
• Arch. Antonio Vettese – Venice Boat Show

Preliminary Program

14:30 – Welcome and Opening Remarks

• Dr. Simone Venturini, City of Venice – Councillor for Social Cohesion, Tourism, Economic Development, Labor, and Housing
• Arch. Marco Piva, Studio Marco Piva
• Arch. Giovanni Salmistrari, President, ANCE Venezia
• Dr. Roberto Perocchio, President, Assomarinas
• Dr. Fabrizio D’Oria, Venice Boat Show & Vela S.p.A.

15:00 – Presentations

• Annaclaudia Martini & Beatrice Ruggieri, Researchers, University of Bologna
  “Beyond Technological Adaptation: Case Studies from Japan and the Maldives”
• Laura Peretti, Principal, LAURA PERETTI Architects
  “Cagliari: The Waterfront of Europe”
• Michele Rossi, Founding Partner, Park Associati
  “Waterfronts: Architecture Between Land and Sea”

16:30 – Q&A Session
17:00 – Closing Remarks