With the financial markets abuzz over Italy’s political crisis, it’s a rather ominous week to launch a new venture in Milan. But if there’s anyone to come out with a vote of confidence in both the city and the country, it’s Giorgio Armani. Tonight with a cocktail party (where incidentally Jessica Alba and Maggie Gyllenhaal are expected), the designer opens the Armani Hotel Milano, a 95-room palazzo on via Manzoni, dressed in the house’s trademark understated chic—which, a good sign, happens to be the opposite of Berlusconi’s signature flamboyance.
Anyone familiar with the ubiquitous baroque decor and often surly hospitality of most Milan establishments will be pleased to hear that Armani Hotel bucks that trend. This is a grown-up space, less bunga bunga and more dolce vita. Service is tantamount—not surprising, given that the designer is a renowned perfectionist and, as anyone living here can vouch, commonly spotted at his restaurant, Armani Nobu, keeping a watchful eye over the proceedings. Nothing is left to chance; each guest is assigned their personal “lifestyle manager,” a staffer who is on call 24/7 to cater to every whim. There’s also a huge rooftop spa with a Japanese onsen-style jacuzzi and gym that overlooks the Duomo and La Scala, though various suites offer private gyms as well as personal kitchens.
But the really remarkable aspect of this property is the view, which is why upon arrival each guest is whisked to the seventh-floor bar and restaurant, which boasts stunning 360-degree city vistas. They’re so impressive it’s as if the designer’s saying (in Italian, of course; Armani prefers to not speak English), “Look, isn’t my city beautiful?”
Source:Katie Olsen for Vogue
Location:Milan, Italy
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