Residence Hilda

Rooms

Each of the 12 airy suites , whether Classic, Superior or Deluxe, has a sleek design. You get a comfortable bedroom, kitchenette and living room, and all mod cons. There are teak parquet floors, calm off-white walls, soft beige furnishings and the occasional colour accent - relaxing orange sofas in the standard suites, or light blue throws on the beds.

The furniture is mostly modern Italian designer, with some Philippe Starck pieces and the odd family antique. Original double-height, double-glazed windows are hung with fine cream curtains with blackout and shutters that ensure a perfect night's sleep on the Simmons mattresses. Personal touches include fresh roses grown by the family and, for those who stay longer than 3 days, complimentary bottles of wine and oil. A few judiciously placed pieces of classic artwork - architectural drawings in the main hall, German romantic paintings in the apartments, and old plant prints - maintain the modern minimalist effect.

Bathrooms are spacious, well-fitted (hairdryers are included) and classy; soft beige walls covered with fine Italian porcelain contrast with black marble surfaces around the basin and shower or bath.

There are five classes of apartment - Classic and Deluxe for 2, Superior for 2 or 3, Family and Family Superior for 4 people -over four floors. All have one main bedroom but the more expensive Family and Family Superior apartments also have a double sofabed in the living room. The quiet Deluxe on the top floor is preferred for honeymooners. Some apartments, mostly the Superior ones, have the best views facing the via dei Servi towards the Duomo; the others face towards the Brunelleschi Rotunda.