Grégory and Olivia Marciano have transformed a 15th-century palazzo in Florence into a collection of long-stay rental apartments, marking their first venture into hospitality. The new project, La Réserve Firenze, is set to open later this month and represents the first Italian outpost of the La Réserve brand, known for its luxury hotels in Paris, Geneva, Zurich, and the French Riviera.
The Marcianos, originally from France, settled in Florence in 2019 after selling Sushi Shop, the French chain of Japanese restaurants co-founded by Grégory Marciano in 1998. The sale of Sushi Shop for €240 million a year earlier freed them to pursue new ventures and led them to acquire and renovate two historic properties in the Florence area. Their villa, Villa Sorgente, located in the hills south of Florence, inspired the design and aesthetic for La Réserve Firenze, located on Via Santo Spirito in the city’s historic center.
The palazzo dates back to the 15th century and was previously subdivided into 27 small studio units. The Marcianos worked with French design studio Gilles & Boissier to restore the building’s original structure and features, including coffered ceilings, carved woodwork, and frescoes. The restoration also incorporated the craftsmanship of local Florentine artisans to revive the classical elements while adapting the interiors for contemporary use. The palazzo now houses six spacious apartments, ranging from one to three bedrooms, each equipped with kitchens and dining areas.
Shared amenities within the building include a library, gym, and communal spaces designed to reflect a blend of classical architecture and understated luxury. The interiors feature materials such as rope, stone, and lime plaster, offering a natural texture that complements the Marcianos’ contemporary art collection. The art, curated with the assistance of Amelie du Chalard, draws from the family’s personal holdings and includes works by notable French sculptor Bernar Venet, as well as pieces by Angèle Guerre, Nuria María, and Lee Bae.
The apartments are characterized by traditional terracotta flooring, travertine marble bathrooms with frescoed ceilings, exposed wooden beams, and furnishings that evoke the earthy tones of Florence’s rooftops and domes. The shared design language resonates with the Marcianos’ nearby villa, despite differing historical backgrounds and stylistic details.
An important aspect of the project is its integration into local life. The Marcianos have made their tennis court available to guests, emphasizing the sport's social significance in Florence. The building also features a rooftop garden, while the villa’s extensive grounds include a swimming pool and spaces designed for outdoor living.
La Réserve Firenze aims to attract guests seeking extended stays in Florence, with several long-term bookings already secured, including families and individuals working in the city. The Marcianos see the project as a new chapter in their lives, combining their interests in design, hospitality, and cultural engagement within one of Italy’s most historic cities.