The Venetian

The Venetian, Las Vegas, USA, is a luxury hotel, casino, convention, resort, and entertainment complex that encapsulates the romance and grandeur of Venice on a dramatic scale. Covering an expansive 36 acres, the project consists of a 35-story tower housing 3,036 suites and a sprawling 120,000-square-foot casino. WATG, in collaboration with the Las Vegas Sands Executive Team, undertook the design of this magnificent endeavor, paying meticulous attention to replicating the architectural opulence and iconic landmarks of Venice. 

The design team incorporated significant architectural icons of Venice, including The Doge’s Palace, Campanile, Bridge of Sighs, and Rialto Bridge, into the complex. These elements were seamlessly integrated to capture the evocative allure of Venice. The result was a breathtaking composition that showcased the essence of the historic city within a modern context, creating a unique destination resort in Las Vegas. 

Construction on The Venetian began in April 1997, and the resort welcomed its first guests on May 4, 1999. The sheer scale and complexity of the project demanded close coordination and collaboration among the design and construction teams. The fast-track schedule further added to the challenges faced during the construction phase. However, through effective project management and the collective efforts of over a thousand construction workers, The Venetian was successfully completed within the tight three-year timeframe. 

The Venetian offers a range of amenities and attractions, tailored to cater to convention-goers and leisure guests alike. The resort features its own meeting space, as well as the adjacent Venetian Expo, addressing the underserved needs of convention attendees in Las Vegas. Visitors can explore the Grand Canal Shoppes, enjoy gondola rides along the replica of Venice’s Grand Canal, and immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of St. Mark’s Square. 

The design and execution of The Venetian garnered recognition from industry professionals. WATG received the Las Vegas A.I.A. Chapter -1999 Design Merit Award for the Venetian Hotel, which highlights best practices and recognizes exemplary projects.

WATG, along with their partners and the entire project team, accomplished an ambitious feat, delivering an awe-inspiring experience that transports guests to the heart of Italy’s most romantic city. With its grandeur and attention to detail, The Venetian remains a captivating destination, welcoming visitors from around the world.

“What I value about WATG is their willingness to listen to clients and to design to their program and vision.” – W. Robert Smith, Executive Director, Canyon Resort Spa Club