Orient Express Unveils Venetian Palazzo Conversion, Blending Heritage and Modernity

Orient Express, recognized for its luxury trains and maritime ventures, has introduced its second Italian hotel, the Orient Express Venezia. This new property occupies the historic Palazzo Donà Giovannelli in Venice’s Cannaregio district, a quieter quarter of the city, according to Rachel Cormack of Robb Report.

The 15th-century palazzo, dating back to 1436, has been entirely re-envisioned for hospitality by architect and interior designer Aline Asmar d’Amman. Her approach involved restoring original features while weaving in contemporary elegance, juxtaposing antique Venetian craftsmanship with modern design elements.

The building's rich history includes mid-19th-century Neogothic and Baroque additions by architect Giovanni Battista Meduna, which, as Rachel Cormack for Robb Report notes, created a theatrical ambiance that persists today. This layered past is evident in the patinated walls, carved surfaces, and painted frescoes, complemented by sumptuous materials such as natural stones, embossed leathers, and moiré silks.

Guests may experience a dramatic arrival via the Gothic water gate, docking directly at the palazzo. The former open stone courtyard lobby has been transformed into a grand living room, adorned with sculpted wood paneling, velvet upholstery, and bespoke Murano chandeliers, as described in Robb Report.

Beyond the public spaces, a gallery showcasing contemporary art leads to a secluded garden, accessible through antique gates and illuminated by Venetian lanterns. The hotel features 47 rooms, suites, and residences, each boasting restored murals, sculptural ceilings, and views overlooking gardens or canals.

Among these, the six Signature Suites offer expansive accommodations of up to 1,560 square feet, characterized by 19th-century frescoes, gilded salons, marble fireplaces, and tall windows. Culinary offerings include fine dining at Heinz Beck Venezia, helmed by the Michelin three-star chef, and more casual fare at the all-day restaurant, La Casati, according to Robb Report.

Our take: The sensitive adaptation of a historic palazzo into a luxury hotel demands a precise balance between reverence for provenance and the exigencies of modern comfort. The choice of Aline Asmar d’Amman, known for her work at Hôtel de Crillon, suggests an understanding of this delicate equilibrium, promising a refined Venetian experience that transcends mere opulence.