Zaha Hadid Architects Transforms Rome’s Palazzo Capponi into Hotel Romeo Roma
In the heart of Rome’s historic center lies a 16th-century palazzo that has been reimagined into a stunning hotel by Zaha Hadid Architects. The project, known as Hotel Romeo Roma, seamlessly blends the rich heritage of Rome with contemporary design elements, offering guests a unique experience that marries the past and present in a harmonious way.
Palazzo Capponi, the original structure of Hotel Romeo Roma, has a storied history that spans several centuries, with various architectural components reflecting different time periods. When Zaha Hadid was approached by the Romeo Collection hotel group in 2015 to lead the transformation of this building, she embraced the challenge of preserving its historical integrity while infusing it with a modern touch. The result is a testament to Hadid’s visionary approach to architecture, marking one of her final projects before her passing in 2016.
The hotel boasts 74 rooms and suites, each meticulously designed to strike a delicate balance between traditional Roman aesthetics and contemporary architectural innovations. Drawing inspiration from the classical Roman vaults, ZHA’s design features sweeping ceilings that pay homage to this iconic architectural element. Paola Cattarin, the project’s director, explains, “We took inspiration from this idea, to make a new interpretation of vaults and their intersections. All the different rooms, down to the furniture, are designed with this concept in mind.”
The centerpiece of Hotel Romeo Roma is its breathtaking courtyard, surrounded by historic facades and offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. With a retractable glass roof that bathes the lobby in natural light, the courtyard is a welcoming oasis filled with artistic installations, lush greenery, and designer furniture. This space serves as a testament to the seamless integration of nature, art, and architecture within the hotel.
During the excavation process to create the hotel’s garden, a remarkable discovery was made—a Roman wall and a previously undocumented workshop dating back 2,000 years were unearthed. This archaeological find now forms the foundation of a subterranean gallery beneath the courtyard, further bridging the gap between ancient history and modern luxury.
Hotel Romeo Roma is not just a place to stay; it is a living museum that showcases a blend of historical artifacts and contemporary art. Original 17th-century frescoes adorn the walls, alongside a white marble head of Livia Drusilla, the wife of Emperor Augustus. These historical treasures are complemented by works from renowned contemporary artists, adding layers of cultural significance to the hotel’s ambiance.
ZHA’s design philosophy for Hotel Romeo Roma emphasizes the restoration of the building’s original interiors, paying homage to Italy’s tradition of exceptional craftsmanship. Luxurious materials such as Nero Marquina marble, Makassar ebony, Sicilian rock salt, and Moroccan tadelakt adorn the hotel, creating an opulent yet inviting atmosphere for guests to enjoy. Alfredo Romeo, the Founder of the Romeo Collection, sums up the essence of the project by stating, “Romeo Roma represents the expression of a new civilization of living and hospitality, combining beauty, functionality, and an innovative vision of hotellerie.”
With its seamless blend of past and present, Hotel Romeo Roma stands as a testament to Zaha Hadid Architects’ innovative approach to architecture and design. The transformation of Palazzo Capponi into a stunning hotel is a fitting tribute to Rome’s rich heritage, offering guests a truly immersive experience that celebrates the city’s architectural palimpsest in a contemporary setting. To learn more about this remarkable project, visit the Zaha Hadid Architects website.
