Hotel of the Week: Iconic Rome Palazzo Re-Opens in Stylish Splendor

The historic Hotel d'Inghilterra is located just steps from the Piazza di Spagna, and is once again welcoming design lovers to the Eternal City

November 1, 2024

Hotel d'Inghilterra has retained its 19th century charm.

The hotel has retained its 19th century charm. Photo: Courtesy of Hotel d'Inghilterra

Rome is well known for its storied, sumptuous hotels, many of which were staples on the Grand Tour and have since played host to heads of state, starlets and world curious travelers alike. One of the earliest—and most beloved—was the Hotel d’Inghilterra which has been painstakingly reimagined by owner Elisabetta Fabri to retain its 19^th century charm; rich fabrics, plenty of gilding, and stunning, original chandeliers. The results are a luxurious boutique setting that’s in prime position for shopping the Via Condotti and exploration of the city’s most famous sights.

For those who appreciate design details—custom Rubelli fabrics and Dedar wallpapers, not to mention chic staff uniforms—a stay here is immersive. Starting with a grand sense of arrival, guests are welcomed into two charming sitting rooms swathed in rich velvet and with antique lamps by Bronzetto. Contemporary pieces by Jacques Grange are in keeping with the rich overall palette of deep reds, mustards and gold. Original black and white marble floors add to the rich, historic sensibility.

Guests are welcomed into two charming sitting rooms. Photo: Courtesy of Hotel d'Inghilterra

The wonderfully old school vibe extends to the check-in area as well, where an attentive staff oversees the original desk area, complete with wooden boxes for each of 80 room keys. Spread across five floors, rooms and suites are highly individualized in shades ranging from azure to emerald, with sumptuous linens by Frette, while the third-floor spaces feature English wallpapers by Morris & Co. that reference the hotel’s heritage. Carrara-clad baths are a highlight throughout, with sleek mirrors and state-of-the-art fixtures adding modern touches. On the upper floors, spacious balcony suites invite guests to relax under chic striped awnings and immerse themselves in the rooftops of Rome, complete with chiming church bells. The piéce de resistance is the jewel-toned Presidential Suite with its 750-square foot patio for entertaining—and direct access to the hotel’s rooftop bar (opening spring 2025).

Food—and beverages, courtesy of the original bijou American bar—take center stage, with Café Romano enticing guests and locals alike throughout the day. Executive chef Andrea Sagiuliano is already garnering a following for his Zucchini Flowers with Cacio e Pepe filling and an outstanding Spaghettone with Mantis Shrimp and Terracita Lemon Zest. Insider tip: score a table at the outdoor cafe along Via Borgognona and linger over a long lunch with a perfect club sandwich and excellent people-watching to match.

Contemporary pieces by Jacques Grange are in keeping with the rich overall palette of deep reds, mustards and gold. Photo: Courtesy of Hotel d'Inghilterra

The hotel has retained it's original black and white marble floors. Photo: Courtesy of Hotel d'Inghilterra

For those who appreciate artisanal craft, a stay at the d’Inghliterra is fascinating; from the original brass doorknobs that have been restored by local metalsmiths, to the ceiling cornices courtesy of Stucchi Italia, to the furniture and mirrors that have been brought back to life by local workshop, Fersini Restauro, every detail has been meticulously executed. The d’Inghliterra is a particular passion project for the larger Starhotels Collezione, and at just three weeks old, the hotel promises to be the city’s most sought after, luxurious stay.

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