Florence, a city steeped in history and art, has welcomed a new masterpiece to its illustrious hospitality scene: the Stella d’Italia Hotel. Nestled within a 16th-century palazzo on the elegant Via Tornabuoni, this boutique hotel is a testament to the enduring allure of Italianità, a celebration of all things Italian.
The mastermind behind this unique project is the visionary hotelier Matteo Perduca, a Florentine native whose keen eye for detail and passion for storytelling have already graced the city with establishments like AdAstra, SoprArno, and Oltrarno Splendid. In collaboration with architect Francesco Maestrelli, Perduca has transformed the second and third floors of the historic Palazzo Corsi, originally designed by Giorgio Vasari, into a 24-room haven, each a curated vignette of Italian history and artistry.
Stepping into Stella d’Italia is like entering a living museum. A 17th-century wardrobe repurposed as a headboard, a monumental hand-painted movie poster from 1954’s “Amori di mezzo secolo,” a framed Redshirt from the Risorgimento – these are just a few of the evocative artifacts that populate the hotel. Perduca’s dedication to authenticity is evident in every detail, from the custom font inspired by Giambattista Bodoni’s typography to the over 500 paintings and prints that adorn the walls.
The rooms themselves are a testament to Perduca’s discerning taste and collaborative spirit. Local artisans, from marble workers to upholsterers and Il Bronzetto for bespoke lighting, have contributed their expertise to create spaces that are both luxurious and deeply personal. One room might feature 1950s-style recliners and vintage movie posters starring Marcello Mastroianni and Claudia Cardinale, while another boasts restored blue-tinted frescoes and maritime-themed paintings. Still another features a collage of vintage maps of Florence. Many rooms offer the indulgence of clawfoot tubs or double-headed showers, each element carefully selected to enhance the guest experience.
Perduca’s personal touch is undeniable. He, his partner Betty Soldi, a renowned calligraphy artist, and even his 14-year-old daughter have contributed original artwork, making Stella d’Italia a true family affair. When asked about his favorite room, Perduca’s response is heartfelt: “They’re like my children. I love them all. It’s impossible to choose.” Yet, he admits a soft spot for the cozy Room 12, adjacent to the Salone breakfast room. And while Room 10 and Suite 31, with their panoramic views of Florentine rooftops, are undeniably captivating, the true joy lies in discovering one’s own personal favorite.
Beyond the individual rooms, the hotel offers communal spaces that invite exploration and connection. The fourth-floor loggia provides a tranquil retreat with views of the Bellosguardo hills, while the Salone breakfast room, with its 360-degree fresco depicting the Corsi family’s country estates and tables crafted from different types of marble, is a feast for the eyes. The bar, a hub of convivial activity, offers classic Italian aperitivos, from Campari spritz to Negroni and Sambuca.
Perduca’s vision extends beyond providing luxurious accommodations; he aims to offer guests an authentic Florentine experience. “I feel responsible for all our guests that come from near or far—sometimes very far!—to visit our hometown,” he says. “I want them to discover the real mood of Florence, beyond the obvious tourism.”
Stella d’Italia’s prime location on Via Tornabuoni places guests within easy reach of Florence’s major attractions, the Oltrarno district, and the Santa Maria Novella train station. The proximity to Palazzo Strozzi, a hub for contemporary art exhibitions, further enhances the hotel’s appeal.
Stella d’Italia is more than just a hotel; it’s a curated journey through Italian history, art, and culture. It’s a place where every detail tells a story, and where guests are invited to immerse themselves in the timeless beauty of Florence. It is an experience that begs repeat visits, each revealing new layers of Italianità.