Rome, a city layered with history, has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, the flourishing of art, and the whispers of countless stories. Now, a new chapter is being written with the unveiling of Palazzo Talìa, a luxury hotel that seamlessly blends centuries of heritage with contemporary design. Opening in May 2024, this 26-room and suite haven, conceived by Federici and brought to life by the creative vision of Studio Luca Guadagnino and others, promises to be Rome’s most coveted address.
Stepping through the majestic wooden doors near Sant’Andrea delle Fratte is like stepping into a time machine. The Palazzo, originally built in the 16th century, boasts a rich and varied past. From its origins as the private residence of humanist Angelo Maria Colocci, a confidante of Pope Leo X, to its later incarnation as the Nazarene College under San Giuseppe Calasanzio, the building has hosted scholars, nobles, and even pontiffs. It has weathered historical storms, from Napoleonic occupations to Nazi rule, and even echoed with the footsteps of cinematic royalty. This layered history forms the very fabric of the hotel, a living testament to Rome’s enduring spirit.
Federici, a name synonymous with construction and real estate, has poured passion and artistry into this project. Engineer Elia Federici, the driving force behind the renovation, emphasizes the hotel’s unique character: “It doesn’t have the constraints of anonymous hotel chains, nor does it exhibit standardized luxury. To the contrary, it is highly distinctive, boasting a recognizable style and a personal touch. A palace infused with the syncretism of three centuries of history, yet also exuding contemporary flair.” This vision is shared by his daughter Angelica, an art and F&B expert, and his son Fortunato, responsible for hotel management.
To capture this unique blend of past and present, Federici enlisted the talents of Studio Luca Guadagnino. Known for their refined aesthetic and cinematic vision, the studio, founded by the acclaimed director, took on the design of the public and reception areas, the Terrace Suite, and the hotel’s restaurant, bar, and wellness spa. This marks the studio’s foray into hospitality design, a challenge they embraced with enthusiasm.
Pablo Molezún, project manager for studiolucaguadagnino, highlights the importance of collaboration and chromaticism: “Chromaticism guides the entire project, as does our close collaboration with artisans. This aspect allowed us to experiment with various techniques. The project itself is the result of a process aimed at achieving this balanced decorative synthesis.” A monumental, floral-themed carpet designed by Nigel Peake for the studio, in rich hues of red, burgundy, and pink, acts as a guiding thread through the public spaces, winding its way up the staircase to the noble floor. Here, the Magna Hall, a 248-square-meter space adorned with 18th-century frescoes by Gaspare Serenari, awaits, ready to host exclusive events.
The studio’s touch is evident throughout, from custom-designed furniture and lighting to the Wellness Area, a serene space that pays homage to Roman heritage with precious marbles and vibrant green majolica tiles. The Terrace Suite, a crowning jewel on the top floor, offers peach wood paneling, soft, muted tones, a fireplace, and a sprawling 66-square-meter terrace overlooking a lush inner courtyard designed by landscape artist Blu Mambor. This urban oasis serves as an extension of the hotel’s social spaces, housing the bar and part of the restaurant seating.
While Studio Luca Guadagnino set the overall creative tone, the interiors of the 25 individual rooms were entrusted to Mia Home Design Gallery and Laura Feroldi Studio. This all-female team drew inspiration from the building’s history and the concept of the “flâneur”—the urban wanderer with a keen eye for detail. They sought to create spacious, welcoming environments that blend traditional design with contemporary sensibilities. Bespoke furnishings, including multicolored bathroom tiles, round sofas, and wrought iron canopy beds, complement a curated selection of pieces from Italian and international designers and artisans. Each room is unique, respecting the building’s original volumes and light, creating a sense of timeless elegance and the comfort of a five-star hotel.
Palazzo Talìa is more than just a hotel; it is a living embodiment of Rome’s rich history, reimagined for the modern traveler. It is a testament to the power of collaboration, craftsmanship, and a deep respect for the past. As Elia Federici concludes, the choice of design teams stemmed from “their attention to detail, and last but not least, the professionalism, shared values and love for aesthetic harmony necessary for the renovation of an historical building, with a complex and challenging theme.” Palazzo Talìa is poised to become a landmark destination, a place where history and contemporary design converge to create an unforgettable Roman experience.