Italian firm Carlo Ratti Associati and American studio Höweler + Yoon Architecture work to create the AquaPraça. This is a floating plaza that is meant to be a sheltered gathering space for those to discuss the climate and environment. The plaza will make its official unveiling on September 4th during this year’s Venice Architecture Biennale. The AquaPraça will be a permanent space for the public in the Amazon region.

Ratti explains, “AquaPraça shows how architecture can engage with the future, by responding to climate and engaging with nature rather than resisting it.” Höweler + Yoon Architecture co-founder Eric Höweler adds, “AquaPraça lets visitors meet the sea at eye level. Its sloping surfaces and shifting levels embody a delicate equilibrium.” co-founder J Meejin Yoon continues, “It’s a platform, both literal and figurative, for deepening our collective understanding and experience of sea level rise and the impacts of climate change on global cities and communities.”

Image Credit: Carlo Ratti Associati