Negozio Olivetti

Negozio Olivetti is a small museum and historic showroom in the arcades of Piazza San Marco, dedicated to Olivetti design and architect Carlo Scarpa. Inside, vintage typewriters sit alongside an exhibition of Jaume Plensa’s work, while Scarpa’s staircases, materials and carefully handled details reward a closer look. The visit is brief, so it suits travelers interested in architecture, design or the history of typewriters more than anyone seeking a large museum. Visitor numbers are limited, and booking ahead can help secure entry.

A showroom designed by Carlo Scarpa

Negozio Olivetti occupies a historic exhibition space beneath the arcades of Piazza San Marco. It was created as a showroom for the Olivetti brand, and the original objects sold there included vintage typewriters. The building is the main reason to look closely: Carlo Scarpa shaped the compact interior with carefully finished details, materials and staircases.

Scarpa’s design gives the small space much to examine at close range. Look at how the staircases and surfaces are arranged as you move through the rooms. The showroom’s handcrafted touches and controlled use of light are easy to miss if you hurry.

Typewriters and contemporary art

The displays bring together Olivetti’s design history and works by Spanish artist Jaume Plensa. The typewriters are preserved and presented as objects in their own right, linking the showroom’s original purpose with the museum visit today. Plensa’s exhibition adds a contemporary element to the historic interior.

The rooms are compact, and the visit can be short. Entry numbers are limited, so arranging a booking ahead can help you plan around the wait. Families can also look for workshops: activities have included a typography treasure hunt for children and teenagers, and an introduction to Scarpa’s architecture for families. Check with the venue for current workshop details.