A new protagonist enters the Venetian hospitality scene: a hotel entirely dedicated to the world of haute horlogerie or finewatch making, situated in a wonderful location on the Grand Canal, close to the famous Rialto bridge and 5 minutes’ walk from St Mark’s Square. The renowned architectural practice of Baciocci wished to showcase the existing structure and has created a modern and minimalist reinterpretation. The hotel features typically Venetian materials, colours and finishes, such as Istrian stone and cocciopesto, and marries these with haute horlogerie aesthetics. On the ground floor the large space containing the reception, bar and lounge areas is unifiedby quartz concrete flooring in a warm red tone. The walls feature original walltapestries restored and modernised with a red lime wash and the original woodenceilings have been restored and maintained. The haute horlogerie theme is further developed by means of unique interpretations: original internal mechanisms in elegant boiseries in the reception area; large watch hands displayed in thebar area and faithful, working, reproductions of important collectors’ watches.Other unique collectors’ pieces are displayed in glass cases, accompanyingclients into a fascinating world of passion for detail and design.The communal areas are enriched by bespoke furnishings such as the armchairs and small sofasin vintage leather. The intimate, diffused lighting also helps create adesirable and special atmosphere. References to the haute horlogerie theme continue on the upper floors and are manifested by elements such as the key card readers, door handles and the faithful reproductions of watches placed above the entrances to the rooms and in the focal points of the corridors.
