Gaggio is a key contributor to the prestigious special project that transforms the outdoor area of the Gran Caffè Quadri in St. Mark’s Square into a one-of-a-kind exhibition venue. Designed by Teresa Sapey + Partners and curated by Aaron Betsky, the installation is part of the 19th International Architecture Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia 2025 curated by Carlo Ratti.

For the first time, a Biennale project ventures beyond its traditional borders and into the vibrant heart of Venice, transforming the iconic Gran Caffè Quadri in St. Mark’s Square into a living canvas. As the café marks its 250th anniversary, this special collaboration with the Alajmo Group becomes both a celebration and a statement — a tribute to the historic journey of coffee as a cultural connector. Designed not just for Biennale visitors and curious travelers, but for Venetians themselves, the installation weaves together design, fabrics, and furnishings inspired by Persia, India, and North Africa. The aim is to highlight multiculturalism, the rich historical diversity of the lagoon city and the crucial role that coffee has played in fostering the exchange and integration of different cultures, acting as a catalyst in conversations.

Already an iconic presence in the cafés of St. Mark’s Square with its signature blend of function and design, Gaggio has taken its artistry a step further for this special project. Reinventing the parasols of Gran Caffè Quadri from the ground up, the brand has crafted bespoke creations that merge traditional craftsmanship with forward-thinking innovation and a strong commitment to sustainability. Featuring double canopies made from high-performance Dickson-Sunbrella® outdoor fabrics, the new parasols integrate reflective accents and harmonized hues — delivering striking visual impact from sunrise to starlight. With this contribution, Gaggio reaffirms its role as a true ambassador of Made in Italy, infusing the Biennale and the heart of Venice with its enduring vision of elegant design and lasting quality.

“This project offered us a unique opportunity to blend tradition with technology, breathing new life into a space that stands as a true icon for Venetian culture”, says Matteo Gaggio, CEO of the company.

The intervention is completely reversible and reusable, inspired by the behavior of an epiphytic plant.

The existing furniture is thoughtfully repurposed without modification, forming a temporary setting that will seamlessly revert to its original form once the Biennale is over — a gesture that leaves no trace and reflects the shared commitment to sustainability embraced by all project partners.

This project was made possible thanks to the support of partners who share our vision of sustainable craftmanship: UNO Contract curated the complete setup, Mariaflora created high-performance outdoor fabrics, inspired by the coffee route, and Piermaria New Form handcrafted removable seat covers and curtains.