Casa Howard: an opulent and eclectic Florentine Residenza d’Epoca
Stepping through the doors of Casa Howard, there isn’t a typical “hotel reception” area. It feels more like walking into the stylish home of one of Italy’s most fashionable families – which is exactly what it is. To reinforce the familial vibe, guests are given their own key so they may come and go as they please.
Each of the 13 rooms has its distinct personality, from the romantic to the downright eccentric. Resplendent in an intriguing mix of vintage touches, the 60s and 70s memorabilia and high-end antique furniture: every corner of the typical Florentine Palazzo has been totally refurbished then decked out in carefully selected artworks and opulent fabrics, from sofas in sumptuous green velvet to zebra-print armchairs.
Bonifacio is the third-generation owner and is bringing a modern touch to this luxury boutique hotel which is perfectly located to explore the old town of Florence.
What we liked the most
- Staying in an iconic building right in the centre of artistic Florence
- Feeling like royalty as you savour the signature breakfast tray from the comfort of your bed
- The lush green courtyard hidden past the grand front doors
- Lathering up with the handmade luxurious bathroom soaps – which change according to the season
Rooms Overview
At Casa Howard, each of the rooms represents a distinct character in the guest house’s narrative, which spans almost 5 decades. Intriguing artwork and quirky touches set each room apart, but they are all united by way of a supremely comfortable bed with sumptuous linens.
Basic
The Garden Room has a view over the courtyard and is cosy and intimate in shades of violet and burnt ochre. Quirky details such as the wall of gilt-framed Renaissance prints and the patterned headboard and bed sheets give this room style and charm.
Standard
Refinement down to the last detail characterises the Standard rooms. You may choose the Twin Right with its original fresco or the charming Hidden Room, in which a Renaissance-era headboard contrasts with a state-of-the art shower. You could also stay at the Twin Left in bright tones of purple and green. These rooms are the perfect combination of stylish and comfortable.
Deluxe
Each of the Deluxe rooms is a showstopper, whether you stay in the iconic Library room where the walls are clad in hundreds of books or the Black and White room, unforgettable in its monochrome 70s-inspired eclecticism and original Florentine tiles. All the Deluxe rooms comprise an indoor or outdoor seating area. The iconic Studio has a standalone tub, access to a patio and a mezzanine sleeping area. The Camel room has an elegant four-poster and a kitsch plaid sofa and the seductive glamour of the Oriental room speaks for itself.
Suite
Feel like royalty as you recline in the standalone bathtub or gaze onto the Via della Scala from the palatial windows in the Fireplace room. The Casa Howard suites hark back to a bygone era, such as the Drawing room with its sophisticated entertaining area, antique Chinese wood and comfortable daybed.
Family Suite
The Play Room, comprising an extra children’s room complete with climbing wall and an ensuite clad in beautiful Vietri tiles, is fun for all the family. Spacious and elegant, the suite is serene in shades of grey and yellow and features animal-inspired frescoes. A crib can be added upon request.
Services and facilities
Taste the flavors
Carducci’s One
The small yet cosy Carducci’s One will amaze you with freshly homemade Roman cuisine. Talented Bonifacio (casa Howard’s owner) prepares homemade traditional Roman cuisine served with exquisite Italian wine.
Breakfast
A unique feature of Casa Howard is their elegant breakfast trays, served to your door every morning. Start your morning right with hot buttered toast, organic eggs and a freshly-baked cornetto. There’s nothing better than lingering over a velvety cappuccino or a fragrant tea as you listen to the sounds of a Florentine morning drifting in through the window.
Focus on sustainability
Citrus, the fruit of Promise, indicates that the property is noticeable eco-conscious as many areas of sustainability are addressed.
Casa Howard is nestled in a renovated renascence building.
- Located in the heart of the old city, Casa Howard is a historical residence that was brought back to its beauty thanks to preserving the authenticity of the Renaissance building - as renovating antique floorings back to their original splendour.
- Guests are offered Richard Ginori's crockery and soaps from the iconic Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella who are basing all its preparations on traditional herbs and oils of natural origin.
- Talented Bonifacio (casa Howard’s owner) prepares homemade traditional Roman cuisine served with local Italian wine in the Carducci's One. He can also organise a cooking class for those who are hungry to learn the secrets of authentic recipes.
Explore the location
Located next to the Santa Maria Novella Church in the beating historical heart of Florence, a stay at Casa Howard lets you live your Renaissance dream. Tucked away down Via della Scala street, you can reach iconic sites such as the Duomo and Officina dei Profumo within minutes.
The train station is located less than 5 minutes walk away and central Florence has easy access to Pisa, where there is an international airport.
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