Original featurePalazzo Sogni Brings a Dreamlike New Chapter to FlorenceDesign Milk · 26 October 2026 →

Preserving the Past: Frescoes and Surface Treatments

The first design decision was to conserve the original frescoes, using specialist conservators to stabilise pigment and repair cracks. Restoring rather than covering historic art adds provenance, a factor that consistently lifts resale potential in heritage properties.

Where wall surfaces required new finishes, the designers opted for lime plaster and natural pigments, echoing the building’s original palette while offering breathability and durability. These traditional materials age gracefully and avoid the rapid obsolescence of synthetic wallcoverings.

Bespoke Furnishings and Florentine Craftsmanship

Elena and Giulia Sella commissioned local artisans to hand‑carve walnut sideboards, inlay marble tabletops and upholster sofas in hand‑woven linen. The emphasis on regional craftsmanship creates a narrative that buyers value, especially in markets where authenticity commands premiums.

For tighter budgets, the same principle can be applied by sourcing limited‑edition pieces from reputable Italian workshops or by selecting high‑grade reproductions that retain the tactile quality of hand‑crafted wood and stone.

Palette, Light and Spatial Flow

A restrained colour scheme of warm ochres, muted greens and soft greys was layered over the historic backdrop, allowing natural light from the palazzo’s tall windows to flood interiors. Neutral tones act as a backdrop for changing décor trends, ensuring the space feels current without costly updates.

The layout respects the original room proportions, inserting discreet partitions to create private suites while preserving sightlines to the frescoed walls. Maintaining the building’s structural rhythm supports long‑term value, as alterations that compromise historic geometry often diminish market appeal.

Scalable Design for Different Budgets

For owners of smaller heritage apartments, the Palazzo Sogni approach can be distilled into three steps: (1) protect any original artwork or architectural detail; (2) invest in one or two statement pieces of locally made furniture; (3) keep the colour palette neutral and let natural light be the main accent.

Even in contemporary new builds, echoing these principles—using natural stone, timber finishes and timeless silhouettes—creates interiors that age well and retain resale strength.

Related reads

• Inside Palazzo Sogni, Florence’s Dreamlike New Hotel (Design Milk, 26 Oct 2026)

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