ROCCO Forte Hotels celebrates the “renaissance” of Hotel Savoy with the unveiling of its beautifully refurbished Florentine hotel, found in the heart of the city on the imposing Piazza della Repubblica. After undergoing six months of painstaking renovation, the prestigious Hotel, built 125 years ago in 1893, officially reopens its doors on April 13.

Director of Design Olga Polizzi has enhanced the timeless elegance of Hotel Savoy, using contemporary themes, hints of the Renaissance, Florentine fashion and the very best artisans of Florence. The hotel entrance and lobby have been reinstated to their original grandeur, with a five meter high corniced ceiling and with two new large reception desks which incorporate caryatid putti on the four corners, representing the four seasons and the ‘Fleur de Lis’, the emblem of the city.

The fluid and mostly white space is punctuated with colorful art and design elements, including paintings by Luca Pignatelli, all adding a sense of glamour. The Florentine theme continues with two classical stone figures also sourced in the city and a beautiful 17th century marble table with gold detailing, all adding a sense of grandeur to the lobby.

In addition to the public spaces, Olga Polizzi has also created a completely new look for the guest rooms and suites. By reducing the number from 102 to 80, many of them have been completely restructured and have increased in size to offer guests a more luxurious and spacious experience: the Junior Suites, the Grand View Suites and the new impressive 177m2 Duomo Presidential Suite, that occupies its own wing with splendid views of Brunelleschi’s stunning Dome. Furthermore, on the 5th floor, lies the unique two-story suite with a panoramic view of the rooftops of Florence.

Each of the rooms and suites has been designed to give a sense of calm and freshness and the tranquil tones used, combined with the luxurious fabrics in a mix of materials, create a predominantly Italian feel, mirroring the essence of Rocco Forte.

Exclusively designed Il Bronzetto tables, chairs and mirrors and pieces from Chelini Firenze workshop, combined with C&C Milano materials help to give the Hotel Savoy a uniquely Italian flavor. Olga Polizzi said: “It is wonderful to see how many craftsmen still work and create their masterpieces in the center of Florence. We commissioned many artisans from the city, a lovely experience which I hope will make the hotel feel truly Florentine.”

Following this significant renovation project, Hotel Savoy begins a new chapter in its history as renovated expression of luxury hospitality. The Florentine gem of Rocco Forte Hotels repositions itself as a landmark for 21st century travellers in Florence, a worldwide destination with a vibrant contemporary scene and birthplace of Italian fashion. — SG