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Venice Biennale Exhibition + Award

The Venice Biennale has been referred to as the “Olympics” of Architecture, where leaders and innovators come together to celebrate the practice of transformational design. Global designers and influencers showcase their talents and provide a venue for the world to appreciate visionary architecture.

NC State Design at Venice Biennale exhibition photo

About the Award:

The NC State College of Design exhibition, ‘Airports of the Future: Global Design Thinking,’ has provided an amazing stage for our students and College to share and showcase their accomplishments through the display of their works. We are thankful for the collaboration with Fentress Architects who has been instrumental in the execution of the studio and exhibition. The studio has been honored by the European Cultural Centre‘s Best Architecture University Project Award 2018, for recognition of their studio work and for contributing to the research, highlighting the significance of airport space, and the value of the experiential journey.

This award solidifies the commitment of the College and dedication of faculty including Professor Wayne Place, Ph.D., along with the amplified success of our students who share their vision of the Think And Do philosophy.

About the Biennale:

The Venice Biennale has been one of the most prestigious international cultural events for over 120 years. By inviting the world’s leading design thinkers, visionaries, and makers, the Biennale consistently cultivates a progressive voice that inspires, advocates, and connects a global audience. It is an honor and a privilege for NC State College of Design, School of Architecture and the airport studio to be invited and to participate in this grand and global event.

Palazzo Bembo Exhibition Space:

The exhibition of student work is currently featured on the first floor of the historic Palazzo Bembo, overlooking the Grand Canal just a few steps from the centrally-located Rialto Bridge. The Palazzo was built by the noble Bembo family in the 15th century, and its architectural style reflects the Venetian influences of its original period and those from subsequent restorations.

Among the ancient families of Venetian aristocracy, the Bembo lineage includes saints, leaders, heroes, and writers. The Bembo font, a popular serif typeface, traces its origins to the family.

Thank you to our generous sponsors

The College of Design is grateful for the following sponsors who have made this opportunity possible:

Fentress Architects
Vernon F. Shogren Endowment

Additional sponsors:

  • Jeffrey Floyd
  • LS3P (Charlotte)
  • Chuck Lysaght
  • Bill and Tess O’Brien
  • Wayne Place and Eliane Mandu Lopes
  • Michael Tribble
  • Mark Williard
  • Terry and Julia Yeargan