Somewhat precariously located within the Venetian Lagoon, the city of Venice seems surprisingly resilient to change. Bridges, perhaps, are the most frequent mode of new development, from temporary pontoons and lashed-together boat bridges to more ornate classical assemblages. The Accademia, steeply rising above the Grand Canal, is one such landmark (a contemporary Venetian icon?) providing spectacular views to and from its distinctive timber deck. Its future, however, is in some ...