The intervention at the Civic Museums of Santa Caterina in Treviso was developed in three phases, with the aim of regenerating a significant portion of the museum complex, upgrading it to high standards of exhibition design, safety, and climate control, and creating new spaces for temporary exhibitions. The complex originated from the aggregation of the 14th-century Gothic Church of Santa Caterina with the 16th-century former convent organized around two cloisters, later complemented by a 450 m² underground hall dedicated to conferences and events.
The project addressed structural and infrastructural deficiencies while redefining functions, museum routes, and spaces for events of international relevance. The first phase focused on reception areas and selected exhibition rooms, including roof consolidation, restoration of timber structures, and the enhancement of historic masonry and vaulted spaces. The new galleries were conceived as flexible, neutral environments equipped with advanced lighting and climate systems, organized as “boxes within a box” to ensure environmental control and security.
The second phase completed the refurbishment of the Pinacoteca with additional exhibition rooms, which in 2016–2017 hosted the exhibition Stories of Impressionism. The third phase involved the underground hall, where severe water infiltration issues were resolved through full waterproofing, new construction systems, and finishes. A defining feature is the technical ceiling, characterized by an autonomous, rhythmic geometry that integrates lighting and building services. The project is completed by new stair connections and by an entrance volume in corten steel, featuring a minimal architectural language that engages in dialogue with the historic context through a courtyard-garden concept.
German Design Award 2020 – Excellent Architecture
Iconic Award 2020 – Innovative Architecture
Premio In-Architettura 2020
Second place A’ Design Award 2021
