The Principe di Savoia is arguably the greatest Grande Dame of the Italian hotel aristocracy. Nearly a century old, this luxurious establishment is as fashionable today as it was when it first opened its doors in 1927. As part of the Dorchester Collection, everything and anything at the Principe di Savoia exudes quality and class: the majestic Neoclassical façade, the multicoloured marble floors, the crystal chandeliers, the lavish textiles… and to crown it all, the Presidential Suite.
Located on the top floor of the building, this suite epitomises the definition of luxury and grandeur. The Presidential suite at the Principe di Savoia offers not only opulence but also a dynamic flow of space and light brought to life by its designer, American architect Michael Stelea. This is space conceived to impress.
And impress it does. Spread over 500sqm, the suite comprises three ensuite bedrooms, a dining room, private gym, indoor swimming pool and spa area, and a fabulous terrace with panoramic views of Milan. It is decorated throughout in Empire style, with original antique furniture that many collectors would wish for themselves. Venetian 19th century mirrors, original prints and fine objects of art complete the ‘attrezzo’ of this spectacular apartment.
Left: The master bedroom at the Principe di Savoia Presidential Suite, featuring Empire furniture and lavish finishes in gold, velvet and wood.
Right: The private terrace provides an expansive outdoor space with unobstructed views of Piazza della Repubblica.
The master bedroom is flooded with light; the large, imposing Empire furniture reminiscent of a refined bygone era. I imagine Maria Callas warming her voice here and Madonna indulging in a hydra-massage after performing to her adoring Italian fans. Lady Gaga chose this lavish suite as her quarters when she stayed in Milan for her 2012 concert.
Sofia Coppola made great use of all its spaces in Somewhere (2010), as one of the two places where the film-star protagonist of the movie (Stephen Dorff) and his 11-year-old daughter (Elle Fanning) stay – the other being Chateau Marmont in Los Angeles. The scenes shot in the suite really show off the splendour of the Pompeii-style indoor swimming pool in its private spa, which is also equipped with a sauna and a steam room.
Even our late queen, Elizabeth II, and her husband Philip, Duke of Edinbugh have enjoyed the exuberant luxury of the Presidential Suite at the Principe di Savoia.
The living room is decorated with a combination of French and Italian styles and includes a fireplace and a grand piano.
The formal dining room has floor to ceiling wood panelling and features an extraordinary Murano glass chandelier. The chairs are upholstered in burgundy leather, matching the lush velvet curtains. The glass and silverware are French, the porcelain, from Limoges. I can only imagine how many world leaders and dignitaries must have discussed issues of global consequence over a meal at its table. The food can be provided by the restaurants in the hotel or, alternatively, the service area has a small but well-equipped kitchen to fulfil the needs of a private chef or external catering service.
Should you choose to entertain more informally, in the living room there is a baby grand piano, a bar and a fireplace in front of which large sofas are arranged, for those relaxed evening conversations that – on occasion – run into the early hours. In warm evenings, it is magical to sit out on the private terrace with a long drink, letting your eyes travel across the lights that, like fallen stars, illuminate the skyline of the city.
It is no wonder that the Presidential Suite at the Principe di Savoia is considered one of the most spectacular hotel rooms in the world.
Author: Julia Pasarón
Book the Principe di Savoia Presidential Suite, HERE.
Other luxury accommodation in Milan recommended by I-M Inquisitive Minds includes the Park Hyatt and the Rocco Forte House.
