In a groundbreaking fusion of architecture, design, and future mobility, the Norman Foster Foundation and Porsche have unveiled Gateway to Venice’s Waterway, a visionary transport hub debuting at the 2025 Venice Architecture Biennale. This 37-meter-long biomorphic structure, reminiscent of a living creature, bridges Venice’s historic charm with cutting-edge sustainable innovation, offering a glimpse into the future of urban transport.
The collaboration, themed around The Art of Dreams, explores how design and architecture can converge to reimagine mobility. Norman Foster describes the project as a “physical manifestation of dreams,” where form, function, and sustainability intertwine. The structure’s lightweight aluminum frame draws inspiration from Porsche’s racing technology, particularly the iconic 917 model, while its kinetic surfaces echo the brand’s Kubus design philosophy.
Functionally, Gateway serves as both a pedestrian bridge and a hub for zero-emission transport solutions, including electric Schiller water bikes and Frauscher x Porsche 850 Fantom Air boats—powered by an adapted Porsche Macan engine. These innovations highlight the project’s commitment to circular economy principles, with locally sourced materials minimizing environmental impact.
Michael Mauer, Porsche’s Vice President of Design, emphasizes the brand’s balance between tradition and innovation, calling the collaboration with Foster’s team a “source of inspiration” for future mobility. The project also features student-led urban mobility concepts from Porsche Style and Studio F.A. Porsche, showcased in interactive displays.
Beyond Venice, Gateway is designed to evolve, adapting to global urban challenges. Foster notes its potential to “migrate” to new locations, ensuring long-term relevance. The installation, previewed at Venice’s Arsenale, opens to the public on May 10, aligning with the Biennale’s theme, Intelligens. Natural. Artificial. Collective.
This partnership marks the beginning of a broader dialogue between Porsche and the Norman Foster Foundation, with sketches hinting at future ventures in automotive mobility and architecture. For now, Gateway to Venice’s Waterway stands as a testament to the power of dream-driven design—a harmonious blend of heritage, technology, and sustainability for tomorrow’s cities.
Gateway to Venice’s Waterway will be on view at the Venice Architecture Biennale 2025 from May 10 to November 23.