Inside Look: Portrait Firenze, Florence Italy

When one thinks of the name Ferragamo, images of colorful loafers most likely come to mind. Thanks to the Lungarno Collection, you can now associate the shoemaker’s name with stylish hotel digs in the heart of Florence. The highly buzzed about Portrait Firenze (sister hotel to Portrait Roma where Mark Zuckerburg honeymooned) opened its doors to guests and fashionistas on May 1st and we couldn’t wait to explore! We’ve even heard rumblings that the first guest to check in was a queen, so we’re royally intrigued.

When one thinks of the name Ferragamo, images of colorful loafers most likely come to mind. Thanks to the Lungarno Collection, you can now associate the shoemaker’s name with stylish hotel digs in the heart of Florence. The highly buzzed about Portrait Firenze (sister hotel to Portrait Roma…where Mark Zuckerburg honeymooned) opened its doors to guests and fashionistas on May 1st and we couldn’t wait to explore! We’ve even heard rumblings that the first guest to check in was a queen, so we’re royally intrigued.

What may immediately grab your attention are the sprawling balcony views of the Arno River and Ponte Vecchio. However, what really sets the Portrait Firenze apart is that it is a family labor of love….Ferragamo style, that is. Special touches including the dozens of framed Ferragamo family photos throughout make it feel as though you are walking into the family’s home.

The family was involved in every detail from the staff uniforms to the Café dell’Oro restaurant. When it came to selecting the right interior designer, the family didn’t have to look far for Florentine designer Michele Bönan. Bönan is responsible for recreating the glamour and golden days of Italy’s dolce vita years that lie behind every guestroom door. Bönan, the brain behind JK Place Florence, JK Capri and the Cipriani Miami, drew inspiration from Florence’s 1950’s high fashion heydays for Portrait Firenze. The lavishly styled rooms with handcrafted furniture transport you to another era, you may even start feeling like Audrey Hepburn or Sophia Loren.

Each space is designed with glamour and relaxation in mind. With features such as dark hardwood floors, cashmere throws and linen touches, you may not want to go back to the home you came from. What we’re especially excited about are the classic marble bathrooms that are slathered in Carrara marble. Each room comes with marble showers, baths, and Ferragamo toiletries, of course.

With some soaking tub views overlooking the city and Florentine countryside, you may never want to leave…bring on the bubbles!

The Portrait Firenze offers 36 suites and guestrooms ranging from 430 sq ft suites to the 2,960 sq ft Portrait Penthouse Floor, each designed to be a portrait of your own home. All rooms are technologically-equipped (take advantage of the complementary iPad and Bluetooth-enable sound system) and come with a fully stocked bar and kitchenette. With every intention to make you feel at home, we’re not surprised that each kitchenette includes an espresso/cappuccino maker, kettle, microwave, dishwasher, cookware and silverware. So, kick off your Ferragamos and make yourself at home.

There are several suites to choose from, so it all depends on your personal needs. If you’re looking to spread out, the Portrait Penthouse Floor is your best bet because it is the only guestroom that takes up the entire top floor of the property. It also comes with a personal butler and dedicated lifestyle team at your disposal, so if shopping is also a priority, a personal in-room Salvatore Ferragamo shopping experience can be arranged. After building up an appetite from all the shopping, you can dine alfresco with special dishes from the chefs. With views from your full-facade terrace overlooking the rolling Tuscan hillside, you may never want to leave.

For those traveling with families, there are several connecting rooms including the Family Suite and Rooftop Suite (Rooftop can sleep up to 5).  The Family Suite comes with a separate living room and the lounge area can be used as a second bedroom (up to 2 kids). The main bedroom also has space for a cot and is available upon request.  We love that there are two bathrooms, one with a walk-in shower and another with a bathtub and shower, so there’s room for everyone. To entertain the kids (aside from the toys and DVD player available), activities such as a visit to the Galileo Museum and bicycle riding through the countryside can be arranged. Need a night out? A baby sitter is also available upon request.

And for those traveling with Fido, rest assured, Portrait Firenze is pet friendly and special amenities (i.e. bowl and toys) for your pup are also available. Guest can even fill out a personalized pet pre-stay questionnaire to ensure their pet’s needs are taken care of.

It’s not a coincidence that Lungarno properties tend to be within walking distance to designer stores. After all, one shouldn’t be walking long distances in heels. At Portrait Firenze, personal shopping tours can be arranged to nearby Palazzo Vecchio and Piazza della Signoria. As an added bonus, guests get free access to the legendary Salvatore Ferragamo Museum and get special benefits at the Ferragamo men’s and women’s boutique. And if you’re concerned about closet space to put those newly purchased shoes, no need to worry – each room has its own walk in closet.

Inviato Note: Note that there are limited onsite amenities (i.e. no gym or spa here to work off those extra pounds from pasta and gelato!), but guests have access to facilities at nearby sister properties.

Photos courtesy of Lungarno Collection