Binoculars Building

The Binoculars Building is an office structure in Venice distinguished by two massive sculptural binoculars that form its entrance feature. The design integrates practical workspace above with the monumental art installation at street level.

Architect Frank Gehry designed the structure in 1991 as headquarters for the advertising agency Chiat/Day. The building's ownership shifted as the area evolved, eventually becoming office space for technology companies.

The giant binoculars adorning the facade are artworks by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen, transforming the building into a public art installation. You can experience this sculpture directly from the street as part of the neighborhood's everyday landscape.

The building sits on Main Street and is easily visible from the street, with the art installation clearly viewable from outside. A notable feature is the parking garage entrance integrated through the binocular structure itself.

The sculpture was created by renowned pop artists and is not merely a facade detail but rather an integral structural component of the building. This approach demonstrates how art and architecture can merge rather than simply coexist.

Location: Venice

Inception: 2001

Architects: Frank Gehry

Official opening: 1991

Architectural style: postmodern architecture, novelty architecture

GPS coordinates: 33.99530,-118.47700

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:02