| Demiurge of
the radical architectural remodelling, of the laborious
recovery of an important texture of signs and memories,
and of the admirable intervention of interior design,
architect Michael Bonan, a young, Florentine professional,
well-known on an international level and director
of many extraordinary hotel projects, has given
life to a sophisticated and timeless play on the
classic. JK Place does not in fact seem to be a
hotel. Buried in a comfortable bergère in
the lounge, where differing stylistic philosophies
join together harmoniously, a Charles X fireplace
and objects from the 1970's, a large neoclassical
bookcase, animalier armchairs, 1950's lamps, a rigorous
play on black and white, - the pale-coloured, wooden
caisson ornamented with delicate grotesque figures
was saved on the upper floors - thoughts run to
Albany, legendary London residence, and to one of
its most famous inhabitants, David Hicks, society
decorator par excellence during the 1960's and 1970's
and irreproachable experimenter in a new, superb
decorative figure. But the surprises don't end here.
Reception is in a splendid library of geometrical
black woodwork, again masculine in tone, engrossing,
perhaps inspired by the 16th century Long Gallery
of Ham House, aristocratic British country residence.
Breakfast may be eaten in what was once the internal
courtyard of the original building, now covered
with a glass structure that shows off the clear
form and structure of the ancient works.
The four Junior Suites positioned on the four floors
each have a view of the Basilica of Santa Maria
Novella and are distinguished by shades of grey
melted with a cream colour. Three of these suites
have a splendid Louis XV fireplace. The only terrace
is located on the façade of the building
and is in the Master Room.
The other three J.K. Classic Double Rooms have
a more intimate atmosphere and are decorated with
woodwork and softer colours. Every room is furnished
with high-tech comforts which crown the stylistic
harmony.
The four grand Deluxe Double Rooms are positioned
on two floors and are of parquet bisque. To complete
the make-up of J.K. Place, there are seven Superior
Rooms and the Penthouse which is actually an apartment
on the roof of the city.
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