Venice
Innovation
Island

Manayunk, Philadelphia, PA

A masterplan — 31 acres of Venice Island

STATUS

TYPOLOGY

CLIENT

SIZE

E. Smith Legacy

31 Acres

Masterplan & Urban Design

Unbuilt

ARCHITECTS

Varenhorst Architects

Design Team: Stephen Varenhorst, AIA; Elin Nguyen, AIA

NOTES

  • Concept incorporates commercial, residential, retail, and multi-modal transportation hubs

  • Waterfront trails, a man-made beach, outdoor pavilions and parks, boat docks, and an elevated pedestrian path

  • Renewable energy, research, and development were key components of design

 

The Master Plan was created to open the northernmost 31 acres of Venice Island and provide a public space for residents and visitors to experience the multiple waterfronts. The concept incorporated commercial, residential, retail, and multi-modal transportation hubs into an extensive green space that created an active, open space that residents and visitors can enjoy. Several existing buildings were maintained and renovated and multiple new buildings were added to create a cohesive fabric for development.

Traffic and circulation were improved by creating vehicular and pedestrian bridges that connect the island to the mainland and provided easy access to public transportation. Renewable energy, research and development, and innovative technologies were key components of the design. Waterfront trails, a man-made beach, outdoor pavilions and parks, boat docks, and an elevated pedestrian path provide green public amenities.