“There are certain cities where the notion of architecture is so perfect that the mere idea of coming up against it is off putting…” he stated. “And here we can’t be pretentious, but we should have at least some ambition”.
So what does that mean in design terms? “A hotel which has to be aware that it is in Florence and accept the architectural terrain! For this reason I am convinced that the plan can have a notable impact on the notion of the hotel in the historic city centre and the contemporary architecture it symbolises”. On this basis a design in “splendid isolation” has been conceived, by way of acoustic and architectural protection an 18m high wall a metre and a half thick, surrounds the interior and gives a sense of privilege for those entering. Four doors are set into the wall which lead to a series of covered terraces (a multi storey cloister, an Elizabethan terrace?) which contain flowers which create fields and landscapes.
An unusual way to welcome guests, whose rooms are situated above in a plant filled and colourful area. The rooms also have terraces which are divided by canvas walls which at night become different coloured lamps. Internal gardens are set along the grand pergola of the hall, lending character to the restaurants, bars and halls.
http://www.concorsobelfiore.com
