Venice, May 12th, 2025 – Once a residence that inspired Franz Kafka’s love letters to Felice Bauer,
Starhotels announces the opening of Hotel Gabrielli, which will welcome guests again from July
9th, 2025 as a 5-star property, following a meticulous restoration that enhances its architectural
value and deep connection with Venetian tradition.
Overlooking the enchanting Riva degli Schiavoni, with views toward the Island of San Giorgio
Maggiore, Punta della Dogana, and the San Marco basin, Hotel Gabrielli has always been a special
destination. Just steps away from St. Mark’s Square, the evocative Biennale Gardens and Arsenale,
its address is steeped in art, history, and beauty. Since 1856, the year of its opening, it has been
managed by the Perkhofer family, and today, thanks to a property lease agreement, it joins the
prestigious Starhotels Collezione portfolio – which in Venice already includes the charming
Splendid Venice.„We are thrilled to welcome Hotel Gabrielli, once a refuge for intellectuals and artists, into our
Starhotels Collezione portfolio,” comments Elisabetta Fabri, President and CEO of Starhotels.
„Together with the Perkhofer family, we have undertaken a careful and conservative restoration to
preserve and enhance the authentic soul of this Venetian jewel. This approach follows in the
footsteps of our recent projects, including the Helvetia & Bristol in Florence and, just a few months
ago, the Hotel d’Inghilterra in Rome.”
Designer Andrea Auletta, who coordinated the restoration project together with his studio,
comments: „Venice has always been our inspiration: from the color palette that recalls the hues of
the lagoon and Venetian stones, to the materials and stylistic codes that maintain a strong territorial
identity. The genius loci is preserved, blending Venetian tradition with modern luxury: Murano
chandeliers, coffered ceilings, and Istrian stone columns coexist with contemporary sophistication.”
The historic façade, meticulously restored to its original splendor, features magnificent polifore, the
traditional Venetian windows, today the emblem of the new Gabrielli, and a surprising architectural
element of one of its signature suites, framing unparalleled views of San Giorgio Maggiore.
In order to offer an even more exclusive experience, the number of rooms and suites has been
reduced from 105 to 66, favoring generous, bright, and refined spaces. Each environment is unique,
designed to combine essentiality and refinement, with carefully selected furnishings that dialogue
with the historic soul of the place. Many rooms offer suggestive glimpses of the lagoon, overlooking
the rooftops of Venice or the internal garden, while the Presidential Suite – among the largest on the
island – boasts a private rooftop terrace with breathtaking views of the city.
The entire restoration involved local artisan craftsmen to preserve and enhance the hotel’s
historical heritage, part of Starhotels’ patronage project La Grande Bellezza – The Dream Factory,
which celebrates Italian craftsmanship. Over 700 chandeliers and wall sconces, created by Murano
master glassmakers such as Archimede Seguso and the historic artistic glassworks Pauly & C., have
been recovered and restored to their former glory. The majestic entrance staircase, marble
coverings, exposed beam ceilings, and original wooden floors now tell a story of continuity between
past and present.
At the heart of the hotel lies a true rarity: a private garden of over 600 square meters, the largest
on Venice’s central island. A corner of protected nature, enriched with centuries-old olive trees and
native plants, brought back to life with botanical sensitivity and respect for history. An oasis of
tranquility amidst the vibrant energy of Venice.
On the sixth floor, behold the panoramic Gabrielli Rooftop Terrace: 150 square meters of
spectacular 360-degree views over the lagoon, from the Lido to Punta della Dogana and the San
Marco basin. A sky bar with warm and enveloping tones – brick red like the sunsets over the lagoon
– suspended over the Venetian sky to enhance its magic at any time of day.
Guests and Venetians will be welcomed throughout the day at Caffè Gabrielli Restaurant and the
K Lounge Bar, conceived as open and fluid spaces with a sophisticated atmosphere, characterizedby canaletto wood, green marbles, precious mirrors, and soft lighting in a warm and inviting harmony.
The internal courtyard, partially covered and enjoyable throughout the year as a charming and
relaxing space, has been designed as a winter garden, adorned with jute-effect fabrics and green
finishes, and an ancient well that was originally present in the courtyard.
Inside the hotel, the elegant Ballroom, embellished with majestic chandeliers and large windows
that flood the space with natural light, offers a refined setting for private events and intimate
receptions.
An exclusive SPA completes the experience, positioned on the hotel’s noble floor, with hammam,
sauna, sensory shower, and treatment room. A regenerating refuge for body and spirit, perfect after
a day of discovery among the narrow streets, art, and wonders of the city.
Hotel Gabrielli has recently joined the prestigious collection of The Leading Hotels of the World.
