Knitted structure ‘Necto’ debuts at Venice Architecture Biennale

A breathtaking knitted installation named Necto is drawing global attention at the 19th Venice Architecture Biennale, where it is installed prominently at the entrance of the Arsenale Corderie, one of the event’s main venues. On view until November 2025, this fluid, tension-driven structure is a demonstration of what 3D knitting technology and sustainable design can achieve when architecture and textiles converge.

Necto is the outcome of an ambitious partnership between SO-IL, Prof. Mariana Popescu, TheGreenEyl and Steiger. Their collective vision explores computational design, material intelligence, and circular architecture through the lens of knitted textiles.

Necto takes the form of modular, flowing cones crafted from 100% natural linen yarn, seamlessly knitted into 12 strips by Steiger’s advanced technology. The piece integrates 23 programmable LED yarns and nine multisensory sound-light scenes that interact with the spatial dynamics of the textile, transforming the space into a living architectural experience.

Necto is 95% biodegradable, combining linen with PVA plastic yarns. Locally sourced materials and modularity support its commitment to circular design. Remarkably, after the Biennale, the knitted structure can be dissolved, packed into hand luggage, and reused, embodying the essence of temporary, mobile, and eco-conscious architecture.