RESIDENCE HILDA

Residence Hilda is your ideal home away from home in the San Lorenzo neighbourhood of Florence. 12 carefully crafted suites are stretched over 4 floors, nicely situated in a completely renovated 19th century building. Modern commodities and sizeable spaces gives you the capacity to live your Florentine experience with absolute privacy. There is no minimum stay length and you will love to cave in to the contemporary designer furnitures before a day outing. Situated only a stone throw away from the stunning Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral (Duomo) and the David by Michelangelo, you will be happy to lounge around the comfortable spaces before gawking to the city's many sights. Live like a local in this family-friendly haven suitable for all travel personalities. 

Residence Hilda was donated from Countess Hilda Fabbricotti Guerrini herself to the manager Valentina's mother. The historic building was occupied at the time and was given in very bad conditions. After 12 years, the mother of Valentina (manager) was able to acquire it back from the 'tenants'. It was only then when she decided to act on fulfilling the dream of her life, to have an exclusive accommodation in the lively city of Florence where guests can call it home.

Valentina's family used to travel frequently when she was only a child, but they never had enough space, comfort or the right equipment for travelling with minors. So entire apartments were given to them, but only to run them like a hotel room. It was a time that it was common in the international market, but Residence Hilda is the first in Florence to allow guests to rent apartment-suites by the night. All odds were against them at the time, including the authorities' dismissive behaviour wishing them to 'fail in 2 years time'. Not withstanding a defeat, the family managed to gain their faiths and grow Hilda with occupancy. Residence Hilda to this day has been well received and celebrated as one of the best places to stay in Florence.  

The entire property underwent a complete restoration that lasted 2 years, with only the stairs remaining as the original structure. The marbles were designed and laid by Mr. Sollazzini the same artisan restoring the Uffizi marbles, the furniture was partly tailor-made by a carpenter, partly bought from modern designers as Philippe Starck, De Padova, Vico Magistretti, etc. and partly donated to the Residence Hilda from manager Valentina's family (all the staff that you can see in the common areas). The embroidery on the ceilings was designed by Valentina's father as well as the windows at the entrance and to the courtyard: Valentina's father is originally a dentist, but has good eyes on design and architecture as they are his passion. Her mother takes care of the flowers, the gifts for guests and check every suite before the arrivals. 

Soft colours and cutting-edge design are serenaded across the hotel's premises. The only 2 communal spaces are this hallway and a little garden in the back for easy reading.

OUR STORY

There are 3 classes of apartments - Classic, Superior and Deluxe in ascending order of size. The high-end design and arranged furnishings are gratifying to everyone's liking. Each of the 12 suites has a living area with kitchenette and a fully loaded bathroom. The more sophisticated designer can spot some Philippe Starck, De Padova and Vico Magistretti design pieces and old, familiar antiques serenaded across the communal and private spaces. Simmons mattresses are used for the beds, and the silky tone of the sheets will set you fast to sleep as you quickly unwind in your comfort zone. 

Residence Hilda shows great appreciation for the extra revenue (stays longer than 3 nights), by providing personalised gifts that we wish not spoil the surprises for you. If you are a couple staying, we recommend booking the quiet Deluxe suite on the top floor, for its views and maximum privacy. The Duomo can be seen from some of the Superior apartments, whilst others face towards the Brunelleschi Rotunda. Added perks are speedy WiFi connections and luxury bedding and towels. Amenities like free water in the fridge and slippers in the bathroom are a nice add-on, considering this is a self-catered apartment rental and not exactly a hotel. Residence Hilda offers an airport shuttle (available on request) for 50€ per vehicle round trip.

The establishment as a whole is convenient, as the walk to the main railway station is within walking distance as well as most of the main sights in Florence. The kitchen is well stocked and fully appointed, with sufficient necessities for cooking if you so desire to. We bought groceries at one of the three nearby shops in the area, and had a bulk fruit basket in the kitchen table for snacking and topped up on drinks and tidbits. If you can't bother making your own brekkie in the morning, breakfast can be provided at a small cafe adjacent to the hotel, for a mere 8,50€ you get good value and conveniently done on the spot. 

The staff are friendly, helpful and attentive to details. Late check-outs and early check-ins are part of the service. Buses and taxi rank are only a few metres away, including the number seven bus that takes you to the mountain town of Fiesole, overlooking the city of Florence and its surrounding countryside.

THE GOODIES

- Daily maid service, kitchen included
- Cribs and high chairs for children (free of charge)
- Children trollies and car seats rental service
- Room service from noon to 10:00 pm, full menu
- SAT LCV Tv, Dvd and Cd players on request
- Telephone and intercom
- Iron, iron board, towels heater, hair dryer and razor plug
- Private garage with valet service or public parking nearby

 

SUMMARY

Rate - Start from 95 euros per night
Location - 3 minutes walking distance from the Duomo
Suitable for - couples, friends, business, families and solo travellers
Tips - Try the organic pizzeria Simbiosi and the restaurant La Ménagére. 

You will sleep tight with the double-glazed windows in the rooms. Thick shutters and fine cream curtains can be opened or closed, to ensure a good night's sleep.
Classy, modern bathrooms with soft beige walls in the finest Italian characteristics. Rooms have either a shower or a bath, be sure to select your preference.

Images © Residence Hilda