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 9 th, 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, characterized by 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.
Hotel Gabrielli Venezia – Starhotels Collezione
Opening in 2025 with a respectful nod to the past and a forward-looking concept, the new Hotel Gabrielli Venezia - Starhotels Collezione aims to redefine Venetian chic, reestablishing itself as not only an iconic landmark, but also a new contemporary hotel designed for life and luxury travel in the 21st century. The Perkhofer family, custodian of Hotel Gabrielli since it first opened in 1856, welcomed over the centuries special guests, particularly enlightened artists, renowned writers, fashion celebrities, and politicians. A landmark for travellers during the era of the Grand Tour, the Gabrielli was a favoured accommodation for Orient Express passengers, who enjoyed staying here during their journeys.
Starhotels
Starhotels, the first Italian private hotel company, is a market leader in the 4- and 5-stars hotels sector. The Group counts 31 hotels with more than 4,200 rooms and luxury residences located in the heart of the top Italian destinations, in addition to London, Paris and New York. Starhotels is synonymous with the excellence of Italian hospitality, offering impeccable service that excels at anticipating the guests' wishes and exceeding their expectations.
The prestigious Starhotels Collezione – icons of style in the most beautiful destinations in the world – stand out for their strategic positions, sophisticated design and bespoke services. Starhotels Collezione properties are located in Florence, London, Milan, New York, Paris, Rome, Saturnia, Siena, Trieste, Vicenza and Venice.
Starhotels Premium, located in the heart of the most beautiful Italian cities, Bergamo, Bologna, Florence, Genoa, Milan, Naples, Parma, Rome, Saronno, Venice and Turin, stand out for their contemporary style, and perfect combination of elegance and comfort, providing an intangible sense of well-being through excellent and welcoming service.
 Hotel Gabrielli prepares to write a new chapter in Venetian hospitality history
|
