Hotel Gabrielli, nestled on Venice’s iconic Riva degli Schiavoni just a step from Piazza San Marco, has officially reopened following a profound restoration, reintroducing itself as a refined five-star hotel. Owned by the Perkhofer family for five generations, the historic 14th-century palazzo has been meticulously transformed to offer a modern interpretation of Venetian grandeur, embodying Starhotels’ commitment to cultural preservation through its Collezione brand.
Heritage Meets Contemporary Italian Design
The renovation, led by Milanese designer Andrea Auletta, balances timeless Venetian architectural features with subtle modern details. Within the hotel, guests are welcomed by restored coffered ceilings, traditional Istrian stone columns, and an abundance of Murano glass chandeliers – over 700 originals refurbished by skilled artisans. The façade has been brought back to its original splendor, and the famous Quadrifora windows now define the design of the most exclusive suites, commanding the lagoon’s aerial beauty.
Reflecting a desire for intimacy and elevated hospitality, the hotel has reduced its room count from 105 to just 66. Even the spacious Presidential Suite stands apart – not only for its generous proportions but for its rooftop altana terrace offering panoramic views over the city and the lagoon. Throughout the hotel, original elements like the marble staircase, exposed beams, and parquet floors have been preserved, standing alongside refined contemporary touches that reflect both Venetian tradition and modern sensibilities.
Sanctuary and Elegance in the Heart of Venice
Beyond its rooms, Gabrielli offers a host of signature experiences. A 600-square-meter private garden lies tucked behind the palazzo – a rare private retreat in Venice – where olive trees, hydrangeas, magnolias, and antique marble tubs share shaded paths that echo centuries past. This unique sanctuary merges historical charm with a sense of tranquility, allowing guests to escape the bustle of the Riva just steps away.
Dining honors local ingredients and culinary traditions. Both the elegant Felice al Gabrielli Restaurant and the K Lounge Bar spotlight Venetian flavors through dishes crafted under the “Km Veneto” philosophy, celebrating ingredients sourced from nearby producers. The restaurant is named after poet Franz Kafka’s muse, adding a poetic layer of cultural resonance to the setting.
Guests can also ascend to Terrazza Gabrielli on the sixth floor, a sky bar offering 360-degree views of Venice – perfect for sunset cocktails and quiet reflection above the lagoon. The property also introduces an exclusive Venetian spa for guests seeking relaxation, offering a serene blend of wellness and historic atmosphere.
In reopening Hotel Gabrielli, Starhotels has created more than just a luxury address – it has restored a living piece of Venetian history. Infused with craftsmanship, local identity, and thoughtful design, this property stands as the group’s new signature residence in Venice, inviting travelers to not merely see the city, but experience it at its most luminous and refined.
