Ocean Space
TBA21–Academy, Venice, 2018-ongoing

Ocean Space is a centre for exhibitions, research and public programming dedicated to understanding and advocating for our planet’s oceans and seas. Since 2018, D.H.office has worked closely with TBA21–Academy, a division of the Thyssen-Bornemisza Art Contemporary foundation, in order to create the institution, renovate the space, develop an education, exhibitions and public program, and operate the space. 

D.H.office's close collaboration with TBA21–Academy began during the extensive renovation of Chiesa di San Lorenzo, a massive deconsecrated church that had been identified as the ideal venue for TBA's programming in Venice. Dating originally to the ninth century, and rebuilt in the late 16th century, the fabled final resting place of Marco Polo had been largely inaccessible to the public for over a hundred years. Working as project managers of the renovation process, we oversaw the construction works which required significant structural interventions, including reinforcements to the façade, interior walls, and altar, as well as a complete restoration of the ceiling and the appropriate treatment of pre-existing archeological excavations inside the church. During the restoration, we also developed a business plan and institutional strategy with TBA21–Academy, including an operating concept, masterplans for exhibitions and technical infrastructure, and financial forecasts for what would become Ocean Space. Simultaneously, we produced an exhibition with Joan Jonas in the space before the full construction was complete.

Today, Ocean Space runs an education and public program dedicated to the oceans and human impacts on them. D.H.office's comprehensive involvement includes exhibition production, strategy and implementation of education programming and community engagement, communications, development and partnerships, visitor services and maintenance of the space.