Rocco Forte Hotels has unveiled the completion of two major renovation projects in Italy, introducing redesigned interiors at Hotel Savoy in Florence and newly refurbished arrival spaces at Hotel de Russie in Rome.
Led by Olga Polizzi, Director of Design at Rocco Forte Hotels, the projects were developed in collaboration with Studio Ferrari in Florence and Studio Moschino in Rome. Both renovations were designed to strengthen each property’s connection to its destination while offering a contemporary luxury experience.
Hotel Savoy Completes €9 Million Transformation
Located on Florence’s Piazza della Repubblica, Hotel Savoy has completed a three-year refurbishment supported by an investment of more than €9 million. The redesign places local craftsmanship at its centre, incorporating bespoke parquet flooring, Arabescato marble, locally sourced stone, timber finishes and carefully selected Italian textiles.
The hotel’s 46 rooms and suites have been reconfigured with larger layouts, redesigned bathrooms, interconnecting options and flexible accommodation designed to appeal to couples, families and groups.
“We wanted the interiors to feel more rooted in Florence — more tactile, more characterful, and more reflective of the craftsmanship and culture that make the city so special,” said Olga Polizzi.
The refurbishment also expands the hotel’s Suite & Beyond programme, offering exclusive experiences including private visits to Palazzo Strozzi, calligraphy workshops overlooking Ponte Vecchio in partnership with Pineider, and access to Florence’s historic leather workshops.
New Dining and Social Spaces in Florence
As part of the renovation, Hotel Savoy has redesigned its public spaces. Irene restaurant now features interiors inspired by a refined Florentine residence, with walnut panelling, marble finishes and rich fabrics. The restaurant continues to serve Tuscan cuisine created by Fulvio Pierangelini, Creative Director of Food at Rocco Forte Hotels.
The hotel has also introduced Bar Artemisia, named after artist Artemisia Gentileschi. The new cocktail bar features interiors inspired by Florentine art and a drinks menu developed by Maestro Salvatore Calabrese and Federico Pavan, highlighting regional flavours such as Chianti, truffle and leather.
Guests are also welcomed by a partnership with Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella, one of Florence’s oldest heritage brands.
Hotel de Russie Refreshes Arrival Experience
In Rome, Hotel de Russie has completed the latest phase of its renovation with redesigned entrance, reception and concierge areas. Inspired in part by Palazzo Pecci Blunt, the interiors combine warm colours, walnut panelling, ivory finishes and bespoke furnishings produced by Italian artisans.
The redesigned layout creates three distinct guest areas, improving circulation while maintaining the hotel’s historic character. More than 90% of the furnishings and finishes were custom-made for the project, complemented by carefully selected antiques, including an 18th-century glass chandelier and a 17th-century Italian carving.
“We wanted to create a space that feels both welcoming and unexpected, and that expresses a natural sense of elegance,” Polizzi said. “The design reflects a more nuanced idea of Rome, moving beyond traditional classical references.”
Design Inspired by Destination
According to Rocco Forte Hotels, both projects reflect the company’s design philosophy of creating hotels that are deeply connected to their locations through local craftsmanship, architecture and culture.
Established in 1996 by Sir Rocco Forte and Olga Polizzi, Rocco Forte Hotels operates a collection of 15 luxury hotels, resorts, residences and villas across Europe. The group also has several new Italian properties in development, including openings planned in Sardinia, Noto, Naples and Puglia over the coming years.
