Vimar at Palazzo Serristori: inhabiting history with a contemporary touch
In the heart of Florence, overlooking the river Arno and just a short stroll from the iconic Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Serristori has been restored to its former glory. It stands as a magnificent example of Florentine Renaissance architecture. Its origins date back to the 16th Century when Lorenzo Serristori, an influential ambassador to the Medici court, commissioned Giuliano and Antonio da Sangallo to design a residence for his distinguished family. Over the centuries, the building has become a custodian of prestigious memories, playing host to exceptional guests such as Joseph Bonaparte, Pope Leo X, and eminent figures from culture and music, including Giacomo Puccini, Gioachino Rossini, Lord Byron, Richard Strauss, Richard Wagner, and Queen Elena of Savoy.
Today, following a meticulous restoration led by Architect Adriana Novelli of AnDesignTeam, with ESA Engineering Srl, this historic residence spanning five floors and a total surface area of 5,500 square metres has been transformed into an exclusive complex featuring 12 luxury apartments, ranging in size from 1,700 to 500 square metres. The frescoed ceilings and walls, marble fireplaces, the grand Ballroom with its pioneering Murano stained-glass chandeliers, the lavish Hall of Mirrors, and a rare glazed terracotta stove all tell the tale of a glorious past, meticulously preserved in every detail.
Natural light, prized materials, and technological innovation: it's within this balance of aesthetics and functionality that Vimar fits in, thanks to the work of M.R. Montini Impianti Sas. The Eikon Exé wiring series with Flat controls discreetly and elegantly complements the hues of the frescoed walls. Its finishes in gold, satin gold, matt white, and anthracite grey create a continuous dialogue between past and present.
For light management and temperature control, which are crucial for preserving the frescoes, a KNX home automation system was chosen, integrating Vimar products. This complex system allows for the supervision of functions and centralised management of the building, ensuring interoperability with third-party systems. Another important aspect for an exclusive complex like Palazzo Serristori is security; Vimar solutions offer high-performance products, made with the most innovative technologies to guarantee maximum building protection in any condition. Here, the By-alarm Plus burglar alarm and Elvox CCTV video surveillance systems have been installed and integrated, allowing them to communicate with each other through the View App. This enables user-friendly remote management, complete with alarm notifications and video check streaming. Additionally, the By-alarm Plus system incorporates contact and motion detection sensors for monitoring every area of the building. To complete this experience, equipped with the most modern residential comforts, the complex boasts a spa, a fitness area, and a magnificent monumental Italian garden - the largest in the heart of Florence - which features a charming outdoor swimming pool nestled amidst the greenery.
Palazzo Serristori thus represents a place where living means inhabiting history, where eras intertwine harmoniously, transforming every space into an authentic narrative of the city. Here, the positive energy of Vimar integrates in a balanced way, bringing a contemporary touch that enhances, without ever altering, the soul of the place.
Credits
Design:
• AnDesign Team – Arch. Adriana Novelli
• ESA Engineering Srl
• Studio Protecno
Construction firm:
• CEV Spa
System installation:
• M.R. Montini Impianti Sas
• Fiel Spa
• Stimp Srl
Published on