Built in the XVIth century, the Palazzetto is located on the ancient
premises of a Roman villa, where more than 2000 years ago, Roman aristocrat
Lucullus held his banquets.After the construction of the world-famous Spanish Steps, the Palazzetto
was enriched by the addition of further floors, to allow a panoramic view of
the site.
For many years it was inhabited by a family that belonged to Roman
aristocracy. Due to the exclusive location, they preferred to reside here,
rather than in their historical Palazzo, in the nearby Piazza Mignanelli.
Asked to convert the second floor of the building into a trendy
restaurant and wine-bar, architects Colli and Galliano chose an aesthetic language consciously
respectful of the architectural heritage of Rome.
They created an environment with a strong identity, where symbolism and
functionality coexist.
The place takes inspiration from its surroundings and opens up to the
town and its visitors for very special events, but also for simple moments in
every day’s life, such as informal lunches, cocktails and dinners.
“The Palazzetto represents a step forward in the field of hotel
entertainment, with the aim of attracting and involving a wide range of guests”
the architects point out.By means of a global project, where the innovations of contemporary
design coexist with a neoclassic architectural style while elegantly decorated
mirrors offer precious reflections of the ensamble, the Palazzetto comes
up as a unique experience, a tour through the past with the aid of
modernity.
Thanks to a thorough renovation, the new Palazzetto has achieved a
contemporary look and feel, yet it retains the inspirational atmospheres of
classicism.Highlight of the project is the juxtaposition of traditional and
high-tech materials that speak both for innovation and Rome’s urban tradition. Together with the use
of rich Pompeian red colour and decorative mirrors catching glimpses of our
daily lives, they represent the generating elements of the creative
process.
Light is the second focal point in the design. Beams of light flow from
precious crystal chandeliers, reminiscent of an opulent past and from
invisible, highly technological LEDs. They alternatively create a mellow
atmosphere or originate luminous objects, such as the back-lit, red glass
bar-counter that stands out in the room as a pure monolith.
For a contrast with its formal rigour, it contains a decorative heart. a
gleaming and luminous core, a throbbing element in the lean purity of the
neoclassical ambience.
Functionalism unexpectedly becomes an instrument to create an intriguing
object, a giant ribbon that expands and maximizes the counter decoration. Its
design is functional to the wine-bar, so drinks with their colours and bottles
in multiple shapes declare their function in their form.
The lounge garden with the overlooking obelisk and the world-famous
Spanish Steps is a miniature island of privacy in the heart of Rome’s history, a place to relax and enjoy an
impeccable service. It offers the possibility of taking a rest from hectic
metropolitan life, while the continuous flow of space between inside and
outside surprises and enthrals guests.
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