A revolutionary floating plaza designed by Italian architecture studio Carlo Ratti Associati in collaboration with US firm Höweler + Yoon Architecture has found its permanent home in the waters of Belém, Brazil, following its successful debut at the Venice Architecture Biennale. The innovative structure, named AquaPraça, has been strategically positioned at the mouth of the Amazon River, where it will serve as a lasting symbol of international cooperation on climate change initiatives.
The 400-square-meter floating plaza was transported from Venice to Belém specifically to serve as part of the Italian Pavilion during the COP30 climate conference, which took place from November 10 to 21. The structure has now been permanently gifted by the Italian government to Brazil, establishing it as a unique public space dedicated to ongoing climate discussions and environmental awareness. The plaza is anchored in Guajará Bay, where visitors can experience direct interaction with the Amazon River ecosystem.
"The project was always conceived as a journey – a structure with many lives," explained Carlo Ratti, founder of Carlo Ratti Associati and curator of this year's Venice Architecture Biennale. He emphasized the project's sustainable philosophy, stating, "From Venice to Belém as Italy's pavilion for COP30, it will ultimately remain in the Amazon as permanent cultural infrastructure. This is the essence of circularity – the continual reuse and reinvention over time."
The plaza's innovative design features a steel construction that is partially submerged in the water, creating a unique experience where visitors can engage with the aquatic environment at multiple levels. The structure includes sloped floors that guide people to elevated lookout points for panoramic views, as well as lower areas where they can come into close contact with the water's surface. A distinctive rectangular cut-out in the center of the platform creates a natural water feature that allows the river to flow through the structure.
For its Brazilian installation, the design team added a square canopy that bends upward at two opposite corners, providing shelter while maintaining the structure's modern aesthetic. This architectural adaptation demonstrates the flexibility of the design to accommodate different climatic conditions and cultural contexts. The canopy not only offers protection from tropical weather but also creates distinctive gathering spaces for various activities and discussions.
COP30 president Andre Corrêa do Lago praised the innovative concept, stating, "The concept of a floating forum is truly innovative and aligns perfectly with our vision for COP30. Bringing this structure to Brazil would create a striking and symbolic presence at the conference, highlighting our commitment to sustainability." He further emphasized its long-term significance, noting that "it could serve as a lasting legacy of our joint efforts and a continuous reminder of the importance of sustainability."
The AquaPraça represents more than just an architectural achievement; it symbolizes the growing relationship between Italy and Brazil in addressing global climate challenges. The floating plaza is expected to become a cultural landmark that facilitates ongoing dialogue about environmental issues while providing a unique public space for community gatherings, educational programs, and cultural events. Its permanent presence on the Amazon River serves as a testament to international collaboration in the fight against climate change.
This project joins a growing movement of floating architecture designed to address rising sea levels and changing environmental conditions. The permanent installation of AquaPraça in the Amazon demonstrates how innovative design can create sustainable solutions that adapt to aquatic environments while serving important social and educational functions. The plaza will continue to host climate-related discussions and serve as an inspiring example of how architecture can contribute to environmental awareness and international cooperation.
