In Florence, the Sant’Ambrogio neighbourhood has a new kid on the block, and it may just be one of the coolest new acquisitions for the city. Step into the home of architect James Cavagnari, who lovingly restored this property and created 14 rooms and suites across three floors. Originally an antique convent, this palazzo was purchased by his parents in 1971, and used by James as his florentine home while he was studying. To him, it was (and still is) a place filled with memories which is why, when he decided to let go and renovate, he did it with meticulous dedication, precision and care and this is visible to anyone who enters.
The style is undeniably eclectic with a thoughtful interplay of colour, texture, and light. Nothing here is accidental. Every object carries a story; some rooted in Italian craftsmanship, others gathered during Cavagnari’s travels around the world. North African carpets sit alongside Moroccan lamps, bathrooms are dressed in coloured tiles, while vintage Hermès foulards, Maxwell Williams coffee cups, and Bugatti silverware. Each rooms is purposely different, united by a shared devotion to detail rather than uniformity.
On the ground floor, step through to the 1564 bar, a visually extraordinary space characterized by velvet sofas, pastel tones, Murano lighting, large antique mirrors and vaulted painted ceilings. Then there’s the cocktail list – equally compelling; where mixology becomes an alchemy of rare spirits, exotic flavours and homemade botanical infusions. Our suggestion? order a Smokey Nero for a big surprise.
The James restaurant is cosy; set within a greenhouse structure filled with tall banana palm trees. The menu is Mediterranean, seasonal and well curated. Standout dishes include the Spaghetti with butter, anchovies, lemon and crispy herb-infused breadcrumbs and Honey-glazed duck breast, chestnuts and melted leeks or the special “Shaken” Carbonara, a dish close to the heart of Roman-born Executive Chef Giuseppe di Iorio.