JK Place

HIDDEN BEHIND A DISCREET townhouse door on an iconic Florentine square, JK Place is more like an elegant private home than a hotel. This coolly modern and über-chic retreat is all sleek sophistication. 

JK Place (the initials are those of the owner’s family), is a residence for those in the know. Intimate in style and run with utter professionalism, this remodelled Renaissance palazzo has retained its ancient architectural lines while sporting a striking glass-roofed courtyard and delectable rooftop terrace.

Interiors mix the classic, contemporary and supremely comfortable. Stylish collectibles and artworks blend brilliantly with retro 1950s lamps, panelled ceilings, glossy black  floors and soothing decor in shades of cream and soft gunmetal grey. It’s rather like a sophisticated home with scattered books, antiques and help-yourselves drinks.

Soothing shades

A Charles X fireplace – aglow in winter – sets off the neoclassical bookcases, stuffed armchairs and zebra-striped fabrics in the vaulted JK Lounge. An airy stairway tiled in pietra serena stone curves through the centre of the house, while check-in takes place in a library  lined with books and geometric black woodwork.

Bedrooms – some with four posters – match creature comforts with essential in-room gadgetry. Decorated in restful neutrals – shades of grey, taupe and ivory – all have super-comfy beds, pampering showers, plenty of fluffy towels and robes. The understated colour palette is set off by abstract art and chrome lamps.

Rooms vary in size and outlook, and Master doubles have balconies with wonderful views of the Duomo. The duplex Penthouse suite is the eponymous Room with a View, with its mirrored bathtub vista of Florentine terracotta rooftops.

Not that you’ll miss those views if you opt for less costly quarters. The hotel’s nautical, teak-planked rooftop terrace, with its long lounge bed, is just the place for a cooling aperitivo while watching the city’s twinkly lights. You can nibble on help-yourself cakes and hors d’ouvres in the glass-roofed courtyard, or hang out in the super-stylish Pink Room – with drinks.

Attentive and hospitable staff complement the nicely informal vibe at JK Place.  You’re in the perfect location – steps away from Santa Maria Novella church and a stroll away from Florence’s museums, shops, and galleries. Perfetto!

© Room for Romance