Historic Apartment, Florence

Sensitive renovation of a piano nobile apartment in a protected historic building for a second-home owner

RoleOwner’s Representative & Design Coordinator

ClientPrivate owner (second home)

ScopeInterior renovation · Systems · Historic compliance

Duration11 months

Project Overview

Modern comfort within strict historic constraints

Located in a protected building within Florence’s historic center, this piano nobile apartment required a complete interior renovation while strictly respecting the architectural and decorative constraints imposed by the Soprintendenza. The client, based in the United States, wanted a refined, livable second home that combined contemporary comfort with the original character of the space.

I acted as the owner’s independent representative throughout the process — coordinating the design team, managing permits and historic approvals, overseeing the contractor, controlling costs, and providing structured remote reporting so the client could approve decisions with confidence from abroad.

Living room with original wooden beams and leather sofa — Main living space — original beams preserved, contemporary furnishings introduced

Bedroom with blue bed and preserved 15th-century fresco — Primary bedroom — elegant blue bed and preserved 15th-century fresco

Walk-in closet with exposed brick wall — Walk-in closet — exposed original brick wall

My Role as Owner’s Representative

Technical evaluation of the apartment prior to final purchase decisions
Coordination of interior architect and specialist consultants
Preparation and management of all Soprintendenza and municipal applications
Contractor selection, contract negotiation, and ongoing supervision
Weekly photographic and video progress reports with clear decision points
Material and finish selection support with local Italian suppliers
Budget tracking and change-order control
Final inspection, snag list management, and handover

Scope of Work

Full interior redesign of living areas, bedrooms, and bathrooms
Discreet integration of new electrical, plumbing, and climate systems
Restoration and conservation of original wooden ceilings and selected floors
New custom kitchen and two bathrooms
Acoustic and thermal improvements within regulatory limits
Lighting design and selection of Italian furnishings and fixtures
Coordination of all finishes, hardware, and decorative elements

Historic Apartment, Florence

Modern comfort within strict historic constraints

Key Challenges

My Role as Owner’s Representative

Scope of Work

Outcome