Location
Set just behind the Accademia, the Ca' Pisani Hotel is in a low key, picturesque part of Venice. This luxury Venice design hotel is a stone's throw from the Grand Canal, a few minutes walk from all the major attractions, and yet far enough off the beaten track to be comfortably removed from the summer hoards of St Mark's.
Style
The Ca' Pisani is an inspired amalgam of 13th, 16th and 20th century history. Originally built in the 1300s, it was a typical small palace of Venetian nobility. In the late 16th century, additions were made, and on the first floor you can see the original, ornate beams in the high ceilings. The interior design features fantastic examples of Art Deco and Futurist decoration and furniture (a passion of the family owners). This works wonderfully with the existing building and adds clean, sharp lines and a modern feel to this Venice hotel.
Rooms
All of the rooms at this Venice hotel have a luxurious style influenced by the Futurist and Art Deco movements of the 1930s and 40s. Each has an original curvaceous, walnut bed from the period, sourced by the family from across Italy.
The 23 bedrooms, two studios and four junior suites have Art Deco leather armchairs, one-off beds and a Mondrian-esque feel to the wall decoration.
The studios are spread over two floors linked by a curving glass staircase, while the junior suites are the most spacious. Three of the suites are on the top floor and have the best views of Venice.
Dining
La Rivista is a laid-back area serving as restaurant, wine and cheese bar and breakfast room. It opens out to the sunny, quiet Venice street. For dinner, there is an excellent tasting menu and a selection of imaginative pasta, rice and meat dishes. The breakfast is copious and delicious.
Roof terrace and sun deck
A metal curving staircase opens out onto a large roof terrace with a panoramic view of the Venice rooftops.
Who goes?
Chic, well-heeled European (Italian, German, French) couples in their mid-30s in search of a stylish Venice design hotel. At breakfast there was good-looking French family with young teenagers, Italian couples and a few older, smart couples in their 50s.
Unexpected pleasure
In such a small Venice hotel, it was surprising to find the luxury of a steam room. On the top floor and with its own adjoining shower room, it was a private little retreat - perfect after a long day walking the streets of Venice.
Could do better
The toiletries in the bathrooms were minimal.
Verdict
This Venice design hotel combines historic grandeur with early 20th century glamour and contemporary comfort. The hoteliers’ personal passion for the Modernist interior design and their dedication to high quality, personalised service makes Ca’ Pisani a real gem. The charming neighbourhood, the romance of Venice itself and the uber-stylishness of the hotel makes this perfect for a chic, romantic break.
Ca’ Pisani Hotel, Dorsoduro 979/a, Venice, Italy, 00800 37 46 83 57, designhotels.com
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