Florence, a city steeped in history, constantly challenges its inhabitants to reconcile the past with the present. For designers Elena and Giulia Sella, this challenge became a magnificent opportunity at Palazzo Sogni, a new 30-room luxury hotel nestled just steps from the iconic Duomo. Their ambitious vision was to breathe new life into a 16th-century palazzo, preserving its Renaissance grandeur and historic frescoes while imbuing it with a distinct, contemporary identity. The result is a captivating dialogue between eras, where Florentine craftsmanship, bespoke furniture, and a playful sense of discovery converge under the overarching theme of “dreaming.”
A Tapestry of Time: Honoring History
The story of Palazzo Sogni begins in the 16th century, as part of the grand Palazzo Testa, built by the influential Martelli family. Its walls whisper tales of centuries past, boasting a monumental nymphaeum with a stone fountain traditionally attributed to the renowned sculptor Baccio Bandinelli, and historic frescoes by masters like Luigi Catani and Antonio Marini. The Sella sisters embarked on a meticulous conservation journey, carefully peeling back layers of paint to reveal long-hidden artistic treasures.
Preserving the Soul of the Palazzo
Rather than treating these invaluable historic elements as mere decorative backdrops, Elena and Giulia Sella allowed them to inform and inspire every aspect of the new interiors. “From the beginning, it was essential to preserve the character and soul of the palazzo,” they explain. Original ceiling frescoes underwent painstaking restoration, while marble flooring was meticulously recreated to mirror the building’s original checkerboard pattern. This deep respect for heritage laid the foundation for a truly authentic transformation.
Crafting a Contemporary Dreamscape
The hotel’s name, “Sogni” (dreams), is more than just a moniker; it’s the guiding principle behind its design philosophy. This dreamlike concept manifests in a signature powder blue hue, which gracefully flows through the reception, corridors, and boutique, creating a serene and ethereal ambiance. Complementary tones of mint green, blush pink, and ochre, often paired with sumptuous velvets, silks, and warm metallic accents, complete a palette that is both sophisticated and inviting.
Bespoke Luxury and Artisan Collaboration
Each of the 30 rooms and suites at Palazzo Sogni is a unique narrative, with historic frescoes dictating individual color schemes and material choices. Room proportions thoughtfully shaped furniture arrangements, ensuring every space feels perfectly tailored. Lighting, too, plays a crucial role, with integrated architectural illumination drawing the eye to restored ceiling paintings and dedicated fixtures highlighting wall frescoes.
“We focused on materials that create richness through texture rather than excess,” the designers reveal. Subtly iridescent velvets introduce depth and movement, while original lime-based wall finishes were preserved wherever possible. This thoughtful approach allows contemporary furnishings to stand confidently alongside elaborate historic architecture without ever competing for attention.
A cornerstone of Palazzo Sogni’s identity is its commitment to bespoke design. Elena and Giulia eschewed existing collections, instead designing every single piece of furniture specifically for the hotel. Working hand-in-hand with specialized artisans and workshops across Florence and its surrounding region, they created a “couture design collection” – a unique language of sculptural wardrobes, four-poster beds, upholstered headboards, and custom lighting that could only belong to this extraordinary place.
Details That Delight: A Symphony of Senses
The emphasis on local production and bespoke craftsmanship extends to every detail. The hotel’s signature Floral Butterfly pattern, for instance, was developed in collaboration with Florence-area textile company Alessandro Bini. They created a dedicated loom setup to translate the intricate design into a silk-based jacquard with a distinctive texture and relief, gracing bed canopies, armchairs, and wardrobe interiors. Bespoke linens and terry collections by Italian manufacturer Rivolta Carmignani further elevate the guest experience.
Even the tableware tells a story, with Ginori 1735 reinterpreting its classic Antico Doccia collection in the hotel’s signature powder blue, adorned with delicate floral and butterfly motifs. Perhaps one of the most unexpected yet impactful materials is aged amber mirror, which appears throughout the interiors – from bathrooms and elevators to expansive architectural surfaces. Its reflective quality visually lightens substantial volumes while infusing each space with a warm, inviting glow. “It feels elegant and warm while visually lightening substantial volumes and introducing warmth,” the designers conclude, perfectly encapsulating the hotel’s harmonious blend of history, artistry, and dreamlike luxury.
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