St. Mark’s Square in Venice needs no introductions. The breathtaking view of its Basilica, Bell Tower, Clock Tower, ‘palazzi’ and porticoes is one of the most beautiful in the world. However, in the midst of its attractions, lies a hidden gem – a truly unmissable venue for connoisseurs of 20th-century architecture: the Old Olivetti Showroom.

Designed in 1958 by Carlo Scarpa and commissioned by Adriano Olivetti – an Italian entrepreneur, innovator, academic and man of culture – who wanted to create a modern showroom to display the typewriters and calculators manufactured by the famous Ivrea-based company. Thanks to the philanthropy of Olivetti and the talent of Scarpa – a famous, multi-award winning designer – the Venetian shop became a real work of art.

Scarpa transformed the space provided to him from a long, dark alley into an open jewel box, featuring clean-cut lines and a harmonious blend of modern architectural design and Venetian tradition.