“Lignano 2.0 – Embracing Nature, Celebrating People” is a visionary master plan for a sustainable and community-oriented waterfront transformation of Italy’s beloved coastal town, Lignano Sabbiadoro. Designed by Iuliia and Valentina Tambovtseva, the sister duo behind STUDIO VI, the project proposes a vibrant revival of Lignano Sabbiadoro’s coastline that addresses environmental resilience, promotes active lifestyles, and fosters stronger community engagement.

A masterplan with a soul

Imagine a vibrant waterfront, bathed in warm sunlight, where laughter mingles with the gentle breeze off the Adriatic. Wide, tree-lined sidewalks and paths meander along the promenade, inviting leisurely strolls and spontaneous encounters. Cyclists glide effortlessly on dedicated paths woven through lush greenery. Native plants and wildflowers attract butterflies and birds, creating a natural symphony amidst the urban hum. Soaring walkways and viewing platforms offer breathtaking panoramas of the sea and the horizon. Here, visitors enjoy the vastness of the landscape, capturing unforgettable photos with the majestic backdrop. Children’s play areas burst with energy, offering laughter and adventure for young minds and active bodies. Spacious outdoor sports areas invite locals and visitors to engage in friendly competition. Interactive art installations and sculptures spark the curiosity of people of all ages, while the new urban plaza and open-air amphitheater become a vibrant stage for cultural events and community gatherings.

“Lignano 2.0" envisions a seamless blend of natural environment and urban amenities and experiences, transforming Lignano’s coastal area into a vibrant, sustainable, and interactive waterfront community.

Celebrating people and nature

"Lignano 2.0" is the master plan that breathes new life and activity into the underutilized coastal area. The designers aimed to celebrate the local identity through the architectural language of the project, which can be characterized by soft forms and elegant arches that were intentionally drawn from the region’s mid-century heritage structures.

STUDIO VI carefully considered the site's unique characteristics. The designers believe that careful research of the local environment plays an important role in the rehabilitation of local ecosystems and the conservation of the environment, promoting greater interaction and engagement of the community with nature. The existing wild landscape is proposed to be carefully preserved, and new pedestrian paths and cycling lanes are to be added, providing safe and enjoyable access to the public spaces.

“We identified nature preservation as a crucial aspect of this region, and made it the cornerstone of our design strategy,” says Valentina Tambovtseva. “This meant going beyond aesthetics and focusing on solutions that minimized environmental impact and fostered a harmonious relationship with the natural surroundings. We carefully considered local traditions and architectural styles to create a design that feels authentic, respectful, and deeply rooted in the spirit of the place.”

With “Lignano 2.0," STUDIO VI demonstrated a nuanced response to contemporary challenges. With a strong emphasis on human-centric design, habitat restoration, and multi-seasonal activities, the project aims to showcase the potential of neglected waterfront areas to become thriving community hubs.

“We believe that urban waterfronts are more than just coastlines; they are untapped opportunities for cities to thrive,” says Iuliia Tambovtseva. “By revitalizing waterfronts, we can stimulate economic growth, attract businesses, create jobs, and enhance tourism, as well as improve public health and environmental quality in our cities.”

The project strategy balances innovation with sensitivity to place. By integrating local ecological systems, respecting historical context, and providing for flexible future uses, “Lignano 2.0” seeks to create a public realm that is both robust and adaptable. It reflects the kind of architectural thinking that is reshaping urban waterfronts around the world: climate-resilient, socially inclusive, deeply rooted in place, and beautifully human.

Design excellence

Recognizing bold visions and impactful ideas, the Architizer A+ Awards honors projects that push boundaries and inspire change. “Lignano 2.0” by STUDIO VI is a powerful example of how thoughtful design can transform underutilized waterfront areas into thriving spaces that connect neighborhoods, restore nature, and enhance the quality of life. While unbuilt, the project presents a highly feasible vision that offers strategic guidance for similar waterfront redevelopments around the world.