Housed within a restored palazzo from the 19th century, the Hotel Calimala is set to debut in October in Florence. The 38-room boutique concept will evoke the classic cultural traditions of Florence through a contemporary lens thanks to the thoughtful renovation of the site by Israeli architect and designer Alex Meitlis.
“The interiors of Calimala are inextricably linked to the city,” Meitlis says. “Our mission was dictated by the building’s history and age. It was important to us that every stone, crack, and crevice that could be salvaged would remain within the final design. We wanted guests to know that they are in Florence- and not anywhere else- as soon as they wake up in their rooms.”
The refreshed exterior of etched motifs engraved by traditional “sgraffito” technique, and original stone walls highlight the legacy of the property. Interiors are punctuated by a curated art collection by the Israeli artist Carmel Ilan, while signature branding details, and statement pieces are credited to the Italian designer and creative mind, Ivo Bisignano. Custom furnishings and light fixtures are installed in each accommodation along with tri-colored terrazzo in the bathrooms. A centerpiece of the hotel, the three-story rooftop restaurant, Angel, is located by the swimming pool, and is home to a dining room, bar, and a garden patio.
