Aquarium of Genoa

Renzo Piano · Genoa · 1992

Aquarium of Genoa
Iconic

A 'rock concert in concrete' that shatters architectural convention through its shifting grids.

Aquarium in Genoa, Italy.

Featured in Renzo Piano's definitive monograph, Renzo Piano: Complete Works 1966–Today.

Visitor Guide

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Visitor Tip

Wear comfortable shoes; the building’s asymmetrical geometry and tipped floors can be disorienting at first.

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Best Photo Spot

The central 'pathway' on the 500 level where all buildings connect and the 'clashing' pastels are most vibrant.

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Access & Hours

Public spaces within the University of Cincinnati DAAP building are open to visitors during academic hours.

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Insider Note

Eisenman based the design on a 12.5-degree shift in the street grid; the resulting tipped floors actually made early visitors dizzy.

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Time Needed

1-2 hours

Design & Structure

FoldingFractalRecursive / Self-similar
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Computational Process

Eisenman utilized 'layering'—conceptual, formal, and temporal—to reorganise 13,400 square meters of existing space.

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Materiality

White-painted steel, pastel green and pink concrete panels, and complex geometric spatial boxes.

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Structural Innovation

The building uses 'tipped grids' that displace traditional hierarchies, creating a kinetic experience of rising and descending.

See Together

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who designed Aquarium of Genoa?+

Aquarium of Genoa was designed by Renzo Piano and completed in 1992. It is located in Genoa, Italy.

Where is Aquarium of Genoa located?+

Aquarium of Genoa is located in Genoa, Italy. Its coordinates are 44.4102°, 8.9265°.

When was Aquarium of Genoa built?+

Aquarium of Genoa was completed in 1992. It was designed by Renzo Piano.

Can I visit Aquarium of Genoa?+

Aquarium of Genoa is a real building in Genoa that can be viewed from the outside. Check local information for interior access and visiting hours. Use the Parametric Atlas walking tour feature to plan a route that includes this building.