Inside Venice Venice Hotel, ‘as far from a typical “art hotel” as possible‘

Violino d’Oro, a five-star boutique hotel unveiled by Collezione Em from the Maestrelli family, is situated a short walk from St. Mark's Square in Venice. This property aims to offer an immersive experience into Venetian culture, blending tradition with contemporary design, sustainability, and an authentic Venetian spirit. The hotel reflects the Maestrelli family's over three decades of experience in hospitality, emphasizing respect for cultural heritage and excellence. It has been recognized by The Leading Hotels of the World, signifying its status among exclusive global destinations. The hotel is housed within three meticulously restored 17th-century buildings. The interior design prioritizes silence, texture, and natural light. Every detail, from the materials to the subtle scents, contributes to a unique atmosphere. Sara and Elena Maestrelli have guided the reimagining of Venetian hospitality with a focus on sophistication and human connection. The decor features fabrics by Rubelli, lamps by Venini, artisanal Venetian terrazzo floors, and a curated collection of Italian art and design, all harmoniously integrated. The 32 rooms and suites balance elegance and comfort, showcasing a blend of clean-lined Italian furniture, Oriental pieces, Venetian antiques, and contemporary elements. Canal views, high ceilings, and a soft color palette contribute to a serene and sophisticated ambiance. Sara Maestrelli describes the hotel as an “artisanal Italian project designed like a home,” with everything from glassware to headboards crafted locally in Venice and Tuscany, using noble materials and skilled craftsmanship. Velvets, brocades, and damasks from Rubelli, Carrara marble inlays, and hand-blown Murano glass lamps are prominent features, each with a unique story and tactile quality. Sustainability is a core philosophy at Violino d’Oro, extending beyond a marketing label. This commitment is evident in the use of local materials, support for artisan economies, and mindful resource management, reflecting a dedication to environmental responsibility and the future of luxury travel. The hospitality is characterized by warmth, attentiveness, and personalized service, with staff trained to anticipate guest needs, offering a balance of professionalism and approachability. Breakfasts are served in a sun-drenched dining room, featuring fresh, seasonal, and organic produce, artisanal pastries, and made-to-order coffee, catering to various dietary preferences. The serene atmosphere is designed to promote a sense of well-being. The hotel's culinary highlight is Il Piccolo, an intimate, Michelin-recognized restaurant with nine tables. It offers a contemporary, plant-forward menu based on local and seasonal ingredients, complemented by creative cocktails from head bartender Francesco. The menu evolves with the seasons, combining innovative techniques with traditional respect for ingredients. Violino d’Oro offers unique experiences connecting guests to the soul of Venice. These include Venetian cooking classes, yoga by the canals, mixology workshops, and private visits to artisan ateliers like Rubelli or Micheluzzi. Cultural tours provide access to lesser-known parts of the city, operas, or private palaces. Tailor-made experiences such as sunrise photography walks, guided strolls through Dorsoduro, private lagoon cruises, and food tours through traditional Venetian bacari are also available, aiming to foster a deep connection with the city. Excursions to Murano and Burano are also arranged, offering insights into glassmaking and lace-making traditions, respectively. Murano provides opportunities to observe glass artisans at work and purchase unique pieces, while Burano captivates with its colorful houses and the delicate craft of handmade lace. The hotel aims to provide a new way of experiencing Venice—authentic, sophisticated, and deeply emotional, a sanctuary that makes guests feel at home while offering an exceptional and unique stay. #VenetianLuxuryHotel #BoutiqueHotel #VeniceTravel #ItalianDesign #SustainableHospitality #CulturalImmersion #ArtisanCraftsmanship #MichelinRestaurant #HistoricRenovation

French design firm Le Berre Vevaud, comprising Raphaël Le Berre and Thomas Vevaud, undertook the transformation of a three-floor hôtel particulier in Paris’s 16th arrondissement into a functional and luxurious family home. The project aimed to integrate the art of living with comfort for an art-collecting couple and their two children. The initial impression of the property revealed grand volumes and abundant natural light, necessitating extensive redesign. The designers focused on the first-floor living area, dining room, and kitchen, creating an open-plan layout to maximize natural light. To address the six-meter-high ceilings, a mezzanine level was constructed. This elevated platform now serves as an office overlooking the dining room and offers a view of an olive tree. This intervention cleverly utilized vertical space while maintaining the flow and original decadent character of the property. Adjacent walls were opened to create a larger lateral room, framing views between the living and dining areas. The dining room features a cloudy gold leaf canvas by Anne Féat Gaiss, a black round-legged Olbia cabinet from Le Berre Vevaud’s own furniture collection, minimal Sophie S’Assoit chairs from Maison Dada, and a custom marble table beneath a vintage 1950s eight-arm chandelier. The living room showcases mural artwork by Martin Berger, black wood sculptures by Charles Kalpakian, Ignazio Gardella armchairs, and a cantilevered bronze coffee table by Yann Dessauvage. A carved screen in cut-out brushed oak veneer was added to partition the sitting area from the entranceway elevator, which connects to street level. The design draws inspiration from a combination of materials and textures, spanning the Art Deco period to the bold colors and forms of the Memphis movement. Le Berre Vevaud's expertise extended beyond architectural ingenuity to interpreting the couple's extensive art collection within a domestic context. In the entranceway, a 17th-century portrait by Hans Hansen Rasch is casually displayed above a custom Belize bronze console. A bedroom features a Sophie Calle photograph and a pink and gold patterned de Gournay screen by David/Nicolas, alongside a custom-designed bed, presented in an unassuming manner. The home not only provides a backdrop for a diverse art collection—including modern and contemporary sculptures, photographs, paintings, and classical pieces—but also incorporates a 1,000-square-foot spa. Le Berre and Vevaud repurposed part of the ground floor courtyard for this zen-like space. The staircase leading to the spa features dark materials and waxed concrete to create a subdued atmosphere and mimic natural stone textures. Under a gridded skylight, a raised platform houses a circular Jacuzzi. Opposite, a shower room and hammam sauna are adorned with minuscule mosaic tiles designed in collaboration with Beton Blanché, aiming to transport the owners into a tranquil environment within their home. #ParisianHome #HôtelParticulier #LeBerreVevaud #LuxuryDesign #ArtCollectorsHome #SpaDesign #InteriorArchitecture #FrenchDesign #Mezzanine #ArtIntegration

Nolinski Venice, the latest hotel from Evok Collection, has opened its doors in the former stock exchange building of La Serenissima, marking the brand's first venture outside of Paris. The hotel, located on Calle Larga XXII Marzo, a luxury boutique-lined street just five minutes from Piazza San Marco and La Fenice opera house, is the result of a four-year restoration project by French-Italian duo Lecoadic-Scotto. The design brief for Nolinski Venice was to respectfully preserve the building's historical integrity and original architectural framework, while simultaneously infusing it with the city's unique essence in an eclectic and modern manner. The hotel's interior design is a cohesive fusion of Art Nouveau, Liberty, and Modernism, achieved through a diverse palette of colors, furnishings, and materials. Traditional Venetian terrazzo flooring, Renaissance-inspired rounded arched windows, and stucco marmorino walls are complemented by mid-twentieth century glass chandeliers. These elements are further enriched with opulent, velvety furnishings in shades of burgundy, indigo, and baby pink, contributing to a rich and inviting atmosphere. Central to the hotel's charm is the Library Bar, an intimate space characterized by dark wood paneling and deep burgundy velvet curtains. This area houses approximately four thousand books, interspersed with two frescoed canvases by Simon Buret, which offer his artistic interpretation of Venice. A notable abstract painting on the ceiling, also by Buret, carries a nautical theme, subtly referencing the mythical sea creatures depicted on the hotel's façade. The hotel features a curated collection of glass objects created by Mariapia Bellis of Avem, a Murano-based glassware artisan. These pieces, which include paperweights and vases in various colors, evoke marine themes and are available for purchase at the Nolinski store, further connecting the interior design to Venice's maritime heritage. Each of the 43 rooms and suites possesses a unique architectural layout, having been meticulously restored to retain their original structure. One room notably boasts a magnificent vaulted ceiling in the bedroom. The color schemes are vibrant and contrasting, featuring gold, black, baby pink, ruby red, and navy blue, which reflect the carnivalesque spirit of the city. Some accommodations include separate living areas with floor-to-ceiling bookcases, inspired by Italian architect Franco Albini, filled with a thoughtfully chosen selection of books, decorative items, and artwork. Guest amenities have been carefully considered to enhance the stay, including Dyson hair dryers, a comprehensive stationary briefcase, powder-blue slippers, and a silver trolley stocked with a selection of spirits. The hotel's culinary offerings include breakfast served in the former council chamber's auditorium, which will transform into the Palais Royal Restaurant in the spring. This grand space, with its seven-meter high ceiling and a large 1950s chandelier, will feature a gastronomic experience led by chef Philip Chronopoulos, drawing inspiration from Greek, French, and Italian culinary traditions. Until then, Il Caffè, located on the ground floor, provides Mediterranean-style lunches and dinners, offering both alfresco and indoor dining options amidst a coffered ceiling and gondola-inspired furnishings. The menu includes dishes such as linguine with lobster and Milanese veal chop, presented with gueridon service. The rooftop features a gold-mosaic covered plunge pool, offering a splendid 360-degree panoramic view of the city, where guests might observe the reflection of the San Marco bell tower in the water. #NolinskiVenice #HotelDesign #VenetianArtDeVivre #LecoadicScotto #EvokCollection #LuxuryTravel #InteriorDesign #VeniceArchitecture

The Gritti Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, reemerged in 2013 as a premier destination in Venice following an extensive 15-month, $55 million restoration. This historical palazzo, boasting more than 500 years of history, is strategically positioned along the Grand Canal, offering guests unparalleled views and access to Venice's iconic waterways. The renovation meticulously preserved the building's rich heritage while integrating modern luxury, cementing its status as one of the city’s most distinguished hotels. The hotel now encompasses 82 exquisitely designed rooms, each a testament to Venetian artistry and grandeur. These rooms are appointed with a curated collection of centuries-old antiques and priceless artworks, reflecting the property’s deep connection to Italian culture and history. Luxurious fabrics, specifically miles of Rubelli silks, are prominently featured throughout the interiors, adding to the opulent and authentic Venetian atmosphere. Every detail, from the furniture to the decorative elements, has been carefully selected to immerse guests in a bygone era of Venetian aristocracy, blending historical charm with contemporary comfort. Among its many luxurious offerings, the hotel introduces the Redentore Terrazza Suite, a new addition situated on the top floor. This expansive suite provides a private and lavish retreat, offering panoramic views of the surrounding canals and the vibrant Venetian landscape. The interior of the Redentore Terrazza Suite is a masterpiece of design, featuring polished terrazzo floors that lead into a living room adorned with intricate frescoed walls, evoking the grandeur of historical Venetian palaces. The transition to the bedroom reveals a softer, yet equally luxurious, aesthetic with handwoven rugs laid over elegant parquet floors. The walls are covered in silk-damask, complemented by Venetian mirrors that reflect the suite's sophisticated ambiance. The suite's design is further enriched by carved-wood antiques, richly hued upholstery, and elegant marble and gilded accents. These elements collectively create an authentic 19th-century-salon atmosphere, providing guests with an immersive experience of Venetian luxury. The meticulous attention to detail ensures that the suite feels both historically resonant and supremely comfortable, offering a serene sanctuary amidst the bustling city. A standout feature of the Redentore Terrazza Suite is its extraordinary 2,700-square-foot rooftop terrace. This private outdoor space is accessible via a spiral staircase and is designed for ultimate relaxation and entertainment. The terrace includes a pool, providing a refreshing escape with breathtaking 360-degree views of Venice. This elevated vantage point allows guests to admire the city's iconic architecture, intricate waterways, and vibrant life from a unique and exclusive perspective. The terrace serves as an ideal setting for private gatherings, sunbathing, or simply savoring the beauty of Venice in unparalleled privacy and luxury. The Redentore Terrazza Suite offers an unparalleled Venetian experience, with rates starting from approximately $16,200 per night. #LuxuryHotel #VeniceTravel #HistoricRenovation #GrandCanal #LuxurySuite #RooftopPool #VenetianDesign #ArchitecturalHeritage #FineInteriors

The A by Adina hotel, marking its European debut in Vienna, presents a premium apartment hotel concept that redefines 'hotel-living.' Occupying five floors of the 180-meter-tall Danubeflats, this establishment by Australian-born TFE Hotels combines the sophistication and services of a high-end hotel with the independence and comfort of apartment living. This approach caters to a growing trend among travelers seeking home-from-home amenities complemented by luxury hotel services. The hotel offers 120 premium studios and one- and two-bedroom apartments, each designed to provide individual, flexible, and stylish living spaces. These units are equipped with their own kitchens and work areas, making them suitable for both extended stays and short breaks. The unique architecture of the Danubeflats building ensures that each room has a distinctive layout, with sizes ranging from 23 sqm for studios to 96 sqm for two-bedroom apartments. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of Vienna from a private infinity pool, utilize saunas, and access a state-of-the-art gym. The on-site bar and restaurant, Lottie’s, operates under the ethos of 'a little luxe, a little laid back,' focusing on exceptionally well-executed simple offerings. In collaboration with BWM Designers & Architects, the interior design of A by Adina Vienna Danube harmoniously blends European architectural sophistication with Australia’s relaxed elegance. Recognizable Viennese elements, such as herringbone wooden floors and the use of Cipollino marble in kitchen areas—a material favored by modernist architect Adolf Loos—are subtly integrated. These are complemented by colors, patterns, and textures inspired by Australia’s natural landscapes, featuring soft, earthy tones contrasted with deep blues and greens that evoke Australian skies and oceans. Bespoke wallpaper features curved lines, mirroring the Australian landscape, a motif that is geometrically reiterated in custom-made lighting and specially designed carpets, where the curves are looser, suggesting flowing water. The corridors are intentionally decorated in dark tones to heighten anticipation for the naturally lit rooms, which benefit from expansive floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Ceilings are painted to match the walls, creating an illusion of greater space by eliminating color barriers. Extensive use of wood contributes to the interiors' softness and warmth. Erich Bernard, CEO and Founder of BWM, explained the design philosophy. The vision was not to overtly replicate Vienna within the hotel, as the city already surrounds it. Instead, the focus was on a subtle integration of Viennese elements with the A by Adina concept, creating a unique fusion. Bernard emphasized the importance of authenticity in the narrative, aiming to combine two distinct elements rather than separating them. He highlighted the principle of synthesis, bringing together the Viennese and Australian influences in a coherent and unified manner. A deliberate design choice in Lottie's, for instance, involved leaving the ceiling exposed to reveal the building's structure, adding texture and character. The selection of real wood and bespoke materials was crucial for conveying the desired atmosphere and narrative depth. Bernard also underscored the importance of timeless design for sustainability, advocating for creations that transcend fleeting trends to ensure longevity. The A by Adina hotel successfully embodies a luxury lifestyle hospitality experience, encapsulated by Lottie’s ethos of 'a little luxe, a little laid back,' by providing a unique environment that merges comfort, luxury, and cultural synthesis. #HotelReview #LuxuryTravel #ApartmentHotel #Vienna #HotelDesign #InteriorArchitecture #EuropeanDebut #PremiumAccommodation #HospitalityDesign

Palazzo delle Pietre, a 15th-century building in Rome's historic Campo Marzio district, offers a unique hospitality experience that blends ancient Roman history with modern design. Owner and collector Carlo Mazzi transformed the time-worn structure, which sits atop the ancient Baths of Nero, into a collection of luxury serviced apartments. The restoration, completed over seven years, aimed to create a space that fosters a "conversation between past and future," embodying the ancient concept of _Civis Romanus sum_—that one becomes a Roman citizen through elective affinity rather than birth. The property features 10 unique apartments, ranging from intimate studios to expansive penthouses, each meticulously designed to serve as a private home for sophisticated, art-loving travelers. Mazzi's extensive collection of approximately 200 archaeological finds and 50 Renaissance-era pieces is distributed throughout the common areas and apartments, creating a continuous dialogue with contemporary design elements. Guests will find modern furnishings and lighting, such as Harry Bertoia chairs by Knoll, desks by De Padova, and Artemide lights, juxtaposed with antique wooden headboards, restored doors, and Roman stone fragments. The interior design emphasizes material richness, incorporating at least ten different types of marble, including rare book-matched slabs, alongside vaulted ceilings and travertine doorways. Textiles from Lo Studio di Beatrice Petriccione di Vadi soften the architectural geometry of stone and wood. Each apartment is fully equipped with bespoke items, including Richard Ginori porcelain, allowing guests to immerse themselves in daily Roman life while benefiting from hotel-like services such as concierge assistance, spa appointments, and event space access. Notable accommodations include the "Penthouse Apartment" and "La Corte Rooftop Terrace," a split-level residence with panoramic views and a private hammam. The property's strategic location on Via delle Coppelle places guests within walking distance of iconic Roman landmarks such as Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, and Caravaggio's masterpieces, yet it maintains a distinct neighborhood feel away from chaotic tourist hubs. This provides an authentic Roman living experience where history, art, and artisan culture converge. Palazzo delle Pietre also cultivates a vibrant cultural atmosphere through its "FraMmenti Club," which hosts monthly events, talks, and salons designed to foster social cohesion and revive the spirit of ancient Roman academies. Wellness facilities are integrated with artistic flair; the fitness room is uniquely adorned with original Andy Warhol Marilyn portraits, contrasting with the ancient surroundings. The communal wellness area features a hammam with green mosaics and a massage room clad in warm yellow marble, underscoring the property’s commitment to an artful and luxurious guest experience. The establishment aims to offer a discreet and unique hospitality choice, enabling travelers to feel like citizens rather than mere tourists in a city that continually evolves. #LuxuryTravel #RomanHistory #ModernDesign #BoutiqueHotel #ArtCollection #ItalyTravel #InteriorDesign #CulturalImmersion #PalazzoDellePietre

Rome is preparing for a significant year, marked by a Catholic jubilee, which occurs every 25 years. This event, commencing on December 24 with the opening of the holy door in St Peter’s Basilica, is expected to draw millions of pilgrims seeking plenary indulgence. Coinciding with this momentous period, a new luxury establishment, the Romeo Roma, has opened its doors on Via di Ripetta, near Piazza del Popolo, after over a decade of development. This is the second hotel from the family-owned Romeo Collection, situated within an elegant 17th-century palazzo. The Romeo Roma is among several ultra-luxury hotels that have recently launched or are under development in Rome, including the Bulgari, the W, the Edition, the Rosewood, a forthcoming Four Seasons, and a Nobu. The Six Senses, an IHG-owned wellness brand, also opened its first European hotel in Rome in early 2023. The Romeo Roma distinguishes itself with a starting rate of approximately £2,000 per night, positioning it as one of the world's most expensive hotels. This price point surpasses that of competitors like the Bulgari, a detail the hotel seems to emphasize. Key to the Romeo Roma's extraordinary appeal are its high-profile collaborators: Zaha Hadid, who designed the interiors, and Alain Ducasse, responsible for the culinary offerings. The hotel's design is characterized by avant-garde elements, featuring lacquered Macassar ebony and Carrara marble. The restoration of Palazzo Capponi, originally a government office, began in 2012 and uncovered an ancient workshop in the basement. The construction involved the careful integration of tons of wood, marble, and steel, all while preserving the historical integrity of the building, which includes a rotating head of Livia Drusilla in a glass case in the lobby. The lobby itself, formerly the palazzo's inner courtyard, now boasts a retractable glass roof, a vaulted steel lattice ceiling, a red Schulze Pollman grand piano, Rubinacci floor cushions, and an uplit waterfall that spells out “ROMEO” in rainbow-colored water. The rooms continue the space-age aesthetic, with Hadid’s signature curves evident in the ebony beds, mirrored TV stands, and sinuous white spa baths. Some rooms even feature original 17th-century frescoes discovered during renovation. The owner, Alfredo Romeo, expressed the challenge of merging historical heritage with innovative contemporary architecture and sustainability. Culinary experiences at the Romeo Roma are a major draw. Il Ristorante Alain Ducasse offers a ten-course tasting menu for £232, featuring dishes such as charred puntarelle and pink venison. Breakfast by Alain Ducasse, included in the room rate, provides an extensive spread and the Monégasque chef’s signature hot chocolate. The slightly less extravagant Il Cortile offers a Roman menu with pasta, pizza, and fish amidst Carrara marble columns and a shimmering ebony ceiling. The hotel also includes a Sisley spa with treatment rooms, a hammam, an infrared sauna, and a Sicilian salt relaxation room. The hotel caters to a distinguished clientele, as evidenced by the attendance of ambassadors from various countries at its opening. Despite its opulent nature, the hotel considers micro-level details, such as staff remembering coffee orders and personalized amenities like silk eye masks and branded toiletries. The owner, Alfredo Romeo, personally approved many details, including eclectic artworks and custom furniture. While some minor issues, like a lack of bathroom hooks or temperamental lighting, were noted, they are attributed to opening jitters. The article concludes by highlighting Rome's attractions during the jubilee year, including pedestrianized areas, renovated historical sites, and new cultural experiences, affirming the city's appeal beyond the hotel's luxury. #LuxuryHotel #RomeTourism #ZahaHadid #AlainDucasse #HotelDesign #JubileeYear #ItalianHospitality #ArchitecturalInnovation #HistoricalPreservation

Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá, located in the hills near the Vatican, offers an urban resort experience in Rome, blending cultural immersion with relaxation. The property, part of The Leading Hotels of the World, maintains a monastic past, evident in its serene ambiance and architecture, while also belonging to Meliá Hotels International. It provides a quiet escape from the bustling city, with amenities catering to both families and couples seeking tranquility. The hotel is currently undergoing a room refresh, with select suites being redesigned to feature a contemporary, wellness-oriented aesthetic. These updated rooms incorporate rich woods, clean lines, and midcentury-inspired furniture with deep green and navy velvet accents, aiming for an airy and curated feel with enhanced natural light. Meanwhile, some suites retain an original Italian Deco style, characterized by moody grays, luxurious fabrics, and a bold, opulent design reminiscent of 1990s Versace or Miami mansions. Both room styles are designed with family comfort in mind, offering separate living areas and dressing spaces to ensure privacy and comfort for all guests. Dining options include Gala, a Mediterranean eatery known for its garden-and-poolside patio, ideal for aperitivo and dinners featuring dishes like octopus. Follo serves as the fine dining establishment, offering multi-course tasting menus. The bar at Gala is noted for its innovative cocktails, such as the Mezcalgroni, and provides a social atmosphere for guests to interact. The service at Villa Agrippina is described as classic luxury, characterized by attentive and efficient staff. Many team members have long tenures, contributing to a welcoming and personalized guest experience, including impromptu mixology classes for departing guests. The hotel's spa offers a comprehensive thermal circuit, including a steam room, sauna, warm pool, and cold showers, utilizing Clarins products for treatments. Massage services are highlighted for their quality and personalized approach, with therapists extending sessions as needed to ensure thorough care. The location is advantageous, being a short walk from the Tiber River and a 20-minute stroll to the Vatican, with a convenient Metro stop nearby. However, the hotel's elevated position means the return walk can be challenging after a day of sightseeing. While suitable for families due to spacious rooms, the on-site entertainment for children is limited primarily to the pool. The hotel emphasizes a "Sauna. Pool. Aperitivo. Repeat." wellness philosophy, encouraging guests to embrace a relaxed Roman lifestyle. #RomeHotel #LuxuryTravel #VillaAgrippina #VaticanProximity #ItalianHospitality #SpaExperience #FineDining #HotelDesign

The Maker Hotel, a boutique establishment in Hudson, New York, is the creation of Lev Glazman and Alina Roytberg, co-founders of the skincare brand Fresh, and hospitality expert Damien Janowicz. This 11-room hotel is designed to embody an "old-world bohemian glamour" by integrating original decor features and a collection of vintage treasures. The hotel's concept revolves around celebrating craftsmanship and providing guests with inspiring and unique spaces. Glazman emphasized the desire to expand the hospitality experience by offering a dream-like atmosphere, a vision that he believed was perfectly suited for Hudson due to its rich artisan community, history, and design scene. The hotel's design intentionally moves away from standardized aesthetics, instead harmoniously blending various periods and styles to create an eclectic feel. Physically, The Maker Hotel is a complex of three historical buildings: a Georgian mansion, a Greek revival-style property, and a carriage house, all dating back to the early 1800s. Extensive construction was undertaken to connect the different rooms across the 14,000-square-foot (1,300 square meters) property. New structural additions include a central courtyard filled with lush greenery and a 'jewel box'-like conservatory, which now serves as the hotel's main restaurant. The interior design, largely overseen by Glazman, prioritized the preservation of original architectural elements. This involved retaining ornate fireplaces, hand-painted ceilings, stained-glass windows, and tiled mosaic flooring. Over 70% of the decorative items are either antique or custom-made, incorporating salvaged objects, with some artworks even sourced from Glazman's personal collection. This approach contributes to the hotel's distinct aesthetic, characterized by an unexpected fusion of global design influences acquired over decades of travel. The guest accommodations are categorized into five types: The Bedrooms, The Terrace Lofts, The Corner Studio, and The Maker Studios. Each of The Maker Studios is individually themed, drawing inspiration from different creative professions such as an architect, artist, gardener, and writer. For instance, The Artist room features a vintage easel, and The Writer room is adorned with book-lined shelves surrounding an oak fireplace. Beyond their rooms, guests have access to amenities including a pool, a cafe, and an intimate cocktail bar. The Maker Hotel joins a growing trend of getaway destinations outside Manhattan, offering a retreat from the city's fast pace. Another example mentioned is The Hoxton in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Photography for The Maker Hotel was carried out by Francine Zaslow. #BoutiqueHotel #HotelInteriors #EclecticDesign #VintageDecor #HudsonNewYork #HistoricBuildings #Craftsmanship #HospitalityDesign

The Art’otel Rome Piazza Sallustio, a five-star boutique hotel in Rome, offers a unique and immersive experience that blends art, luxury, and celestial themes. The hotel's design is heavily influenced by Roman-born artist Pietro Ruffo, known for merging political history with cartography and astronomy. His artwork is not merely decorative but narrates the hotel's entire visual identity, transforming spaces like the elevators into psychedelic frescoes of mythological beasts and astrological figures. A dedicated art gallery within the hotel features rotating exhibitions curated in line with Ruffo's vision. The hotel's interior design contrasts with its sharp, modernist exterior, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere through layered textures, sculptural lighting, and mirrored panels that reflect Ruffo's artwork throughout the space. Suites, such as the Junior Suite, feature contemporary furniture and whimsical, celestial accents, including custom zodiac pillows and black-and-white tiled bathrooms reminiscent of a spa within a Richard Serra exhibit. The balconies are adorned with Ruffo’s cobalt celestial tilework, offering views of the Roman skyline and ancient ruins, creating a sense of a private portal to another universe. Room amenities include high-quality Egyptian cotton sheets, Turkish cotton robes, Dyson Supersonic dryers and Airwraps, Kevin Murphy toiletries, a Roberts Radio, and an in-room illy machine, catering to the needs of creative travelers. The Art’otel Rome prides itself on exceptional service, with staff balancing attentiveness with a relaxed demeanor. Located in Piazza Sallustio, the hotel is conveniently close to major attractions like the Trevi Fountain but far enough to offer an escape from tourist crowds. Guests can enjoy lounging on balconies overlooking the Horti Sallustiani, relaxing in the wood-fired sauna, or exploring Rome with personalized recommendations and transfer arrangements from the staff. The hotel also hosts YEZI, an Asian fusion restaurant that provides a culinary alternative to traditional Italian fare. The menu features dishes like yuzu-drenched hamachi crudo and black cod with miso, alongside Milanese-style cocktails, offering a sophisticated dining experience. The hotel's intentional design and curated details, from the astrology-laced murals to the high-end amenities and unique culinary offerings, solidify its identity as a distinct and memorable destination that celebrates the intersection of art, luxury, and travel. #RomeHotel #BoutiqueHotel #ArtHotel #PietroRuffo #HotelDesign #LuxuryTravel #InteriorDesign #CelestialThemes #ItalianArt

The article details the transformation of a 15th-century palace in Orvieto, Italy, into a nine-key boutique hotel named Palazzo Petrvs. Local hotelier Raffaele Tysserand commissioned Naples-based architect Giuliano Andrea dell’Uva, founder of his namesake firm, to undertake the renovation. The palace, once owned by the wealthy notary Petrvs Facienus, had been abandoned for a considerable period before its conversion. The design process for the hotel involved extensive research, with dell'Uva and Tysserand exploring historical buildings and gardens in the surrounding area to inform their approach. The palace's location, adjacent to the 14th-century Duomo di Orvieto, served as a primary source of inspiration for the hotel's interior design, particularly its distinctive facade of alternating white travertine and black basalt stripes. Dell'Uva's design concept for Palazzo Petrvs is characterized by a playful yet sensitive approach that aims to honor the building's historical context while offering a contemporary luxury experience. Upon peeling back 19th-century renovations, original frescoes and Renaissance-era painted wood ceilings were discovered. The architect meticulously restored these historical details and returned rooms to their original proportions. Where frescoes were absent, walls were finished with natural clay plaster and floors were laid with terra-cotta, referencing the city's Etruscan heritage and artisan traditions. This palette provides a warm, soft backdrop for a curated mix of custom and vintage Italian and Nordic furnishings, creating a studied exercise in contrast. The lobby serves as a central point, featuring the original massive stone fireplace. Dell'Uva designed a blocky, double-sided sofa upholstered in forest green fabric, complemented by fringed Hans-Agne Jakobsson table lamps from 1950. Dynamically contemporary brass-and-glass sconces flank the hearth, while a purpose-built dining table with a black-and-white striped base and Hans Wegner seating, a Marco Zanuso armchair, and a Carlo Scarpa console, all vintage, add to the eclectic yet cohesive aesthetic. Many guest rooms incorporate a striped motif, directly referencing the Duomo's facade. This includes an en-suite bathtub constructed from black and white banded terra-cotta beneath a 1500-era coffered ceiling, custom beds with striped linen headboards and skirts, and floors laid with locally handmade terra-cotta tiles in a striped pattern, particularly prominent in the stair leading to the large suite in the ancient tower. The only exception to the striped motif is Coro, the hotel's restaurant, which occupies a deconsecrated 15th-century church adjoining the main building. Dell'Uva preserved its stacked stone walls, adorning them with works by Milanese artist Michele Guido. The restaurant is furnished with recycled-wood tables, upholstered benches, and more Wegner chairs, illuminated by spindly wrought-iron candelabras. Modern amenities, including generous contemporary bathrooms, were integrated for guest comfort. New waxed-iron partitions with openings for windows and doorways were installed to preserve original stone portals and wooden doors. The hotel's courtyard, inspired by local palace gardens and traditional riads, features a working fountain, custom terra-cotta and iron benches with built-in planters, wrought-iron café tables with earth-red cushions, and local Renaissance-era greenery, creating an oasis that blends historical inspiration with new design elements. #BoutiqueHotel #HistoricRenovation #ItalianArchitecture #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHospitality #OrvietoItaly #GiulianoAndreaDellUva #PalazzoPetrvs #Restoration

Dorothée Meilichzon, founder of the Paris-based studio Chzon, has designed Il Palazzo Experimental, a 32-key boutique hotel housed within a centuries-old palazzo in Venice. Meilichzon established her firm in 2009, following industrial design studies at Strate School of Design and RISD, and early career experiences at creative agencies Dragon Rouge and Landor. Her inaugural solo interior project was the speakeasy-style Prescription Cocktail Club, and she was later recognized as Maison & Objet Paris designer of the year in 2015. Her extensive portfolio predominantly features hospitality projects across Europe, including the Henrietta Hotel in London and Hotel Menorca Experimental in Spain. Il Palazzo Experimental marks Meilichzon's first venture in Italy and her fifth collaboration with the Experimental hospitality group. Her design philosophy emphasizes creating distinct settings deeply rooted in their local environments. For this Venetian project, she incorporated local flair through hand-painted tiles and columns, curved furnishings and arches, and a color palette featuring salmon and terra-cotta hues, inspired by the city's unique aesthetic. The hotel's Ristorante Adriatica features a striped canopy and utilizes local materials such as terrazzo and marble. These elements, combined with the color scheme and custom furnishings, also serve as a tribute to Italy's Memphis movement. The surrounding Venetian lagoon significantly influenced the design, reflected in the prevalence of blues and greens in the walls and window treatments. The project integrates custom headboards in guest rooms, Venetian terrazzo flooring in the reception area, and existing ceiling beams in some suites. Throughout the hotel, arches are incorporated to echo historic Venetian design elements, creating a cohesive and authentic atmosphere that respects the building's heritage and location. #HotelDesign #VenetianStyle #BoutiqueHotel #DorotheeMeilichzon #ChzonStudio #HospitalityDesign #InteriorArchitecture #MemphisMovement #CustomFurnishings

Villa F, a luxurious hotel in Venice, Italy, transformed from a 16th-century palazzo, stands on Giudecca Island, offering views of St Mark's Square. Italian hotelier Francesca Bortolotto Possati oversaw its renovation, opening the property in 2011. The hotel became notable when it housed Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt during the filming of 'The Tourist' in 2010. The property is characterized by its extensive and exquisite gardens. Villa F comprises 11 suites, each uniquely named, with Residenza F being featured in the final scene of 'The Tourist.' Guests are provided with personal butlers, and the suites boast antique furniture, original frescoes, and Venetian terrazzo floors. The gardens are accessible to all guests, with the exception of the meditation pool, which is restricted to individuals over 18 years of age. While each suite includes a kitchenette, most guests opt to dine outside at the various establishments within Bortolotto Possati's Bauer group. These dining options include De Pisis, an establishment located beside the Grand Canal that serves Mediterranean/Asian cuisine under the direction of chef Hiraki Masakazu. Another option is L'Ulivo, situated at the Palladio Hotel, which offers a seasonal organic menu with seating either by its open kitchen or on a secluded garden patio. For a more elevated experience, Settimo Cielo, a rooftop lounge, provides panoramic views of the city and lagoon, making it a popular choice for breakfast. For drinks throughout the day, Bar Canale offers a lively atmosphere, with bartenders crafting bellinis as various crafts traverse the adjacent waterway. The B Bar is rumored to attract celebrities such as Daniel Craig, Al Pacino, Jeremy Irons, and Sting on weekends. To facilitate guest transportation, Villa F operates a solar-powered shuttle boat, available at all hours. #LuxuryTravel #VeniceHotel #VillaF #BauerGroup #CelebritySpotting #BoutiqueHotel #GiudeccaIsland #HistoricRenovation #FineDining

Hotel Hotel, a new boutique accommodation offering in Canberra's New Acton precinct, is the result of an extensive collaboration involving over fifty designers, architects, and artists. Located within Nishi, a mixed-use building, the hotel aims to transcend the sum of its individual design elements by engaging with complex urban systems, emphasizing diversity, sustainability, urbanism, arts patronage, and community development. The dramatic entry experience features a staircase designed by March Studio, constructed from more than 2,150 pieces of recycled timber. This intricate design element provides a striking contrast of rustic and baroque, high-tech and low-tech, and represents the project's multifaceted approach. The developer, Molonglo Group, intentionally fostered a pluralistic design process, believing that multiple voices and creative input, even if initially messy, lead to a richer and more challenging outcome. The hotel lobby, described as vaguely subterranean, showcases custom-developed furniture and objects by Broached Commissions and designers like Lucy McRae, Adam Goodrum, and Charles Wilson, alongside curated mid-century pieces by room designer Don Cameron. While Fender Katsalidis Architects and Japan’s Suppose Design Office designed the Nishi building, and March Studio was responsible for the lobby, the various design strands successfully integrate into a cohesive guest experience. Molonglo Group and Don Cameron collaborated to establish a sensibility for the hotel, drawing inspiration from the romantic ideal of the Australian shack. This concept translates into a focus on authenticity and sustainability through the use of enduring, quality materials and vintage furnishings. The aim was to create hotel rooms that feel like a home – inviting, tactile, and designed to age gracefully, similar to a cherished leather jacket or pair of shoes. The lobby features expressed materials like lightly finished timber and raw concrete, while the rooms offer textured surfaces, autumnal colors, and carefully tempered lighting to evoke a sense of being transported. Beyond its interior aesthetics, Hotel Hotel's genius lies in its holistic understanding of urban ecology. Situated above 220 private apartments, the hotel's lobby functions as a semi-public arcade with a cafe-bar and retail tenancies, supporting the amenity for both hotel guests and permanent residents. The Nishi building also houses a cinema and a 6-Star Greenstar office, providing recycled water and other services to its neighbors, further integrating the hotel within a broader sustainable and community-focused environment. The Molonglo Group emphasizes breaking down traditional boundaries of development to create truly great places that benefit the entire neighborhood. Through the work of numerous skilled individuals, Hotel Hotel is characterized by meticulous design and subtle details. However, it is the Molonglo Group’s deep appreciation for the intricate systems that define successful urban environments that truly elevates the project, allowing it to surpass the individual excellence of its components and contribute significantly to Canberra’s burgeoning New Acton precinct. #HotelDesign #Hospitality #InteriorDesign #SustainableDesign #UrbanDevelopment #ArchitecturalCollaboration #CanberraArchitecture #RecycledMaterials #BoutiqueHotel

The W Prague, a newly unveiled hotel in the Czech capital, occupies a meticulously refurbished and restored heritage building from 1905, a significant example of Art Nouveau architecture on Wenceslas Square. The hotel's development follows a nearly decade-long refurbishment, breathing new life into the historic structure which had been shuttered since 2013. The facade retains its original grandeur with refreshed verdigris and gold on swirling ironwork balconies, candy-red window mullions, and renewed gilding on the pediment's sculpture, while a subtle golden 'W' signifies its new identity. The property, formerly known as Grand Hotel Europa, now blends historical preservation with contemporary design. Marriott International and W Hotels spearheaded the redevelopment of the 19,380-square-foot property, which also includes an elliptical, nine-story extension. Benoy, a London-headquartered firm, designed the architecture for the new wing, based on concepts by Czech studio DAM.architekti. Chapman Taylor, an international firm with a Prague office, managed the restoration of the historical areas, collaborated with Czech heritage authorities, oversaw the design of the spa and standard guest rooms, and acted as the project’s architect of record. AvroKO, a U.S. firm recognized for its work on Marriott properties, was tasked with unifying the design, curating key public spaces and premium suites, and cooperating with Chapman Taylor on lighting, tilework, and dining and bar areas that seamlessly merge old and new. AvroKO's design approach centered on creating original contemporary elements that authentically interact with the historical fabric, avoiding mere replication of Art Nouveau details. The team, led by Alex Reed from AvroKO's London office, drew inspiration from three core pillars: Art Nouveau's organic foliate and floral forms, particularly influenced by Czech artist Alphonse Mucha; "the fantastical garden" concept, embodying whimsicality, magic, and escapism; and the historical context of elixirs and alchemy prevalent in 16th-century Prague, symbolizing transformation and healing. These visual narratives are integrated throughout the hotel, from the atmospheric lobby to the guest rooms. In the lobby, restored Art Nouveau lighting, plasterwork, and mosaic flooring are complemented by AvroKO-designed shimmering brass check-in desks set against an arched niche of colorful square tiles from Preciosa, a Czech glass company. These radiant gold and jewel-toned tiles establish the hotel's color palette. Preciosa also crafted the grand pendant fixtures in the atrium and the main staircase, where crystals cascade between ironwork balustrades, symbolizing a fusion of modern design with Czech heritage. Other spaces, like the Bisou lounge, feature custom sofas and faceted mirror cocktail tables inspired by Czech Cubism. The transition between the historic and new buildings is marked by a dramatic emerald and gold corridor, draped in velvet curtains embroidered with botanical motifs, evoking the fantastical garden theme. The new building houses the W Lounge, an all-day space with a mid-century chic aesthetic, featuring poured terrazzo flooring, groovy fireplaces, and curvilinear furniture. A 30-foot-long serpentine bar with a sculptural bottle display serves as a focal point. Guest rooms include 14 suites primarily in the new extension, such as the 1,000-square-foot E-Wow suite, which showcases richly veined stone countertops and expansive city views. The original building's top floors feature two loft-like Wow Bohemia duplexes, characterized by deep reds and golds, sumptuous furnishings, and exposed timber beams, honoring the hotel's history while embracing a luxurious contemporary feel. #HotelDesign #ArtNouveau #PragueArchitecture #HistoricalRestoration #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHospitality #AvroKO #CzechHeritage #AdaptiveReuse

The Mr. C Coconut Grove Hotel in Miami, Florida, is a luxury boutique hotel designed by Arquitectonica and Martin Brudnizki. The hotel is a creation of Ignazio and Maggio Cipriani, who drew upon their family's extensive history in the hospitality industry to establish a new upscale destination in Miami. The design concept for the hotel is deeply rooted in nautical aesthetics, influenced by coastal Italian culture and the sleek, sophisticated interiors of yachts. This thematic approach is evident throughout the property, from its architectural details to its interior furnishings. Key design elements include the prominent use of high-gloss timber and lacquer detailing, which evoke the polished finishes often found on marine vessels. These materials are seamlessly integrated with mid-century Italian furnishings, creating a blend of classic elegance and modernist architectural style. The hotel's architecture and interior design work in harmony to transport guests to a setting reminiscent of luxurious Italian coastal living, infused with a contemporary Miami sensibility. The six-story structure houses 100 meticulously designed guest rooms, each reflecting the hotel's distinctive nautical and Italian-inspired theme. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, The Mr. C Coconut Grove Hotel also features a range of premium amenities. A notable highlight is the rooftop pool area, which offers private cabanas, providing an exclusive and relaxing retreat for guests. The hotel also boasts two signature Italian dining establishments, further enhancing the immersive culinary experience aligned with its Italian heritage. These restaurants are designed to offer a taste of authentic Italian cuisine within a refined atmosphere. Sustainability is a significant aspect of the hotel's construction and operation. The property has achieved gold-level LEED certification, indicating its commitment to environmental responsibility. This certification highlights the hotel's efforts in implementing sustainable practices, including the use of green energy-efficient lighting throughout the premises. The focus on sustainability demonstrates a forward-thinking approach, combining luxury with ecological consciousness. Overall, The Mr. C Coconut Grove Hotel stands as a testament to sophisticated design, drawing inspiration from rich family history and specific cultural influences. Its blend of nautical aesthetics, mid-century Italian design, and modernist architecture creates a unique and luxurious experience for visitors, complemented by high-end amenities and a dedication to environmental sustainability. #HotelDesign #NauticalAesthetics #MiamiArchitecture #ItalianDesign #LuxuryHospitality #SustainableDesign #BoutiqueHotel #MidCenturyModern #InteriorDesign