Residence Marina 35: Where Luxury Meets the Mediterranean

In the world of luxury real estate, location remains the ultimate differentiator. Yet rarely does a development so perfectly embody the intersection of natural beauty, sophisticated design, and lifestyle potential as Residence Marina 35 at Puntone di Scarlino – a place where the authentic essence of Tuscan coastal living meets contemporary luxury.

The New Standard of Mediterranean Living

Nestled along Tuscany’s pristine coastline in the heart of Maremma, Residence Marina 35 represents more than just premium real estate—it embodies a particular philosophy of living. Situated between Via Garibaldi and Via della Dogana in the entrance area to Marina di Scarlino, the development’s 35 meticulously designed residences, ranging from 50 to 90 square meters, offer discerning buyers a rare opportunity to secure their place in one of Italy’s most coveted coastal enclaves.

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What distinguishes Residence Marina 35 is its harmonious integration with both the natural landscape and the cultural fabric of Tuscany. Each residence is positioned to maximize the breathtaking sea views while providing immediate access to the sophisticated amenities of Marina di Scarlino—which is more than just a port, but a veritable ‘citadel of the sea’ offering high-quality sailing services, beautiful boutiques, excellent hospitality, and cultural initiatives.

The Maremma region itself adds a layer of authenticity to the development, with its ancestral Etruscan heritage and distinctive character. Comprising about a quarter of Tuscany’s territory between the provinces of Livorno and Grosseto, this microcosm blends sea, hill, and mountain landscapes with rich cultural traditions and renowned culinary offerings.

Design That Transcends Trends

In an era where luxury developments often prioritize ostentation over substance, Residence Marina 35 takes a more nuanced approach. Composed of two distinct building bodies with four floors above ground plus a basement level for vehicle parking, the architectural vision embraces clean lines and open spaces, utilizing materials that reference the region’s natural palette.

The high plane-volumetric configuration of the site has allowed for the mitigation of the visual impact of the buildings with respect to the environmental context. Despite having four floors above ground, the structures remain lower than surrounding buildings, giving the intervention an appropriate urban connection.

To enhance the Mediterranean climatic characteristics, the design features flat roofs and strongly overhanging terraces that effectively extend the interior living space to the outdoors, allowing residents to enjoy both the sun and panoramic sea views.

The penthouses, undoubtedly the crown jewels of the development, occupy the second and third floors with approximately 90 square meters of space. Accessible via an exclusive internal staircase leading to a large open-space living area, these units feature expansive terraces that crown the buildings and blur the boundary between indoor and outdoor living—a hallmark of Mediterranean lifestyle. These spaces are designed not merely as viewpoints but as extensions of the living area, suitable for everything from intimate dinners to larger social gatherings.

Strategic Position in the Global Context

For the international investor, Residence Marina 35 offers compelling strategic advantages. Its location provides exceptional connectivity to both celebrated destinations and hidden gems of the Mediterranean.

Marina di Scarlino is truly a sailor’s paradise. The deep Gulf of Follonica and the adjacent hills of the natural parks create a mild microclimate with ideal sea and wind conditions in every season.

The maritime connections are particularly impressive: Elba Island sits just 16 nautical miles offshore, while Corsica can be reached in a day’s sailing (60 nautical miles) and Sardinia in two days (120 nautical miles). The development also borders the islands of the National Park—Capraia, Gorgona, Pianosa, Montecristo, Giglio, and Giannutri—positioning Residence Marina 35 at the center of the Mediterranean’s yachting culture.

Meanwhile, the cultural riches of Florence, Siena, and Pisa are all easily accessible, along with the charming San Gimignano and Grosseto. This creates the perfect balance between coastal serenity and urban sophistication, complemented by excellent road, rail, and airport connections to major cities including Rome and Milan.

Investment Perspective

The Tuscan coast has historically demonstrated remarkable resilience in property values, even during global market fluctuations. Residence Marina 35 enters this market as a premium product with limited supply—a combination that traditionally supports long-term value appreciation.

The development is seeing significant interest from both European and North American buyers. Many are attracted by the investment potential, but ultimately, they’re compelled by the lifestyle proposition—the blend of Tuscan authenticity with contemporary luxury.

A Development With Distinction

What separates Residence Marina 35 from comparable developments is its holistic approach to luxury living. Rather than focusing exclusively on the properties themselves, Columbus International has considered the entire living experience—from the convenience of private basement parking to the thoughtful design of each residence type.

The development offers remarkable versatility in its residential offerings. The ground floor units (approximately 50 square meters) have direct access from the common courtyard and feature functional layouts optimized for couples. The first-floor apartments come in two configurations—70 and 80 square meters—both featuring open-space living areas with the option to separate the kitchen from the living room. The upper-floor apartments and penthouses provide the ultimate in Mediterranean living with their generous terraces and panoramic views.

Aesthetics and function, elegance and simplicity, personality and comfort are the guiding principles behind the development. Refined interior environments and attention to detail characterize each housing unit, with projects designed to meet the different needs of future residents.

This attention to lifestyle extends to the natural environment as well. Beyond the development itself lies a dense map of zero-kilometer destinations—from marine parks to unspoiled coves like the nearby Cala Violina—allowing residents to experience an authentic corner of Tuscany from enogastronomic, cultural, artistic, and landscape perspectives.

Looking Ahead

As global wealth continues to seek refuge in tangible assets that offer both lifestyle benefits and investment security, developments like Residence Marina 35 represent an important evolution in luxury real estate. By combining location excellence, architectural distinction, and lifestyle integration, Columbus International has created a compelling proposition for the discerning buyer.

The structures themselves, made of reinforced concrete and insulated with thermal blocks, have been conceived with architectural simplicity to facilitate modular internal distribution that’s as flexible as possible—adaptable to both tourist and residential needs. The apartments on upper floors are accessible from multiple stairwells and elevators that lead to common distribution balconies and individual housing units, ensuring privacy and convenience.

Residence Marina 35 invites potential owners to immerse themselves in la dolce vita at this exclusive new development in Puntone di Scarlino. This project represents the quintessence of Italy: beauty, art, history, and breathtaking landscapes, with the Maremma adding the special ingredient of authenticity.

With construction progressing on schedule and several units already reserved through private viewings across both building structures (designated B1 and B2), interested parties are encouraged to contact Columbus International directly to arrange a consultation.


Columbus International is a premier real estate development firm specializing in luxury properties throughout the Mediterranean region. With a portfolio spanning multiple countries and decades of experience, the company has established itself as a trusted partner for discerning investors seeking exceptional real estate opportunities.

For more information about Residence Marina 35 or to schedule a private viewing, contact info@columbusintl.com. Discover how you can make this authentic corner of Tuscany your own Mediterranean sanctuary.

From Medieval Castles to Fashion Palazzos: Luxury Gastronomy Reshapes Italian Real Estate

Columbus International, with its signature expertise in luxury real estate across New York, Miami, Milan and Tuscany, continues to witness how exceptional dining experiences are transforming historic properties into world-class destinations. Two recent developments highlight this trend that savvy real estate investors should note.

Castello di Fighine: A Medieval Marvel Reborn Through Gastronomy

In the heart of Tuscany’s Val d’Orcia, an extraordinary transformation has occurred. What began in 1266 as a fortress granted by Frederick II of Swabia to Tancredi Campiglia has evolved into one of Italy’s most exclusive gastronomic destinations.

The once-abandoned medieval hamlet of Fighine has been meticulously restored to offer 34 luxury accommodations spread across five elegantly designed villas, two apartments, and various historic structures including a consecrated 18th-century church. The conservative yet luxurious interior design by international designers David Mlinaric and Hugh Henry creates an atmosphere of authentic country elegance with functional luxury.

At the heart of this renaissance is the Michelin-starred restaurant Castello di Fighine. Under the guidance of three-starred chef Heinz Beck (of Rome’s La Pergola) and led by talented head chef Francesco Nunziata, the restaurant offers sophisticated tasting menus (€130 for 5 courses, €150 for 7 courses) featuring locally sourced ingredients, many from the property’s organic garden.

Dining here means experiencing culinary mastery within two-meter thick stone walls, where dishes like the “Cappelletti alla Genovese with balsamic vinegar and Parmigiano fondue” blend regional Italian influences with technical precision. The restaurant’s intimate setting, with well-spaced tables and views of the surrounding greenery, creates an atmosphere of protected exclusivity.

Louis Vuitton Brings Luxury Dining to Milan’s Fashion District

Meanwhile, in Milan’s prestigious Quadrilatero della Moda, luxury fashion house Louis Vuitton is extending its brand into the culinary world with the opening of “DaV by Da Vittorio Louis Vuitton” this April. Located in Palazzo Taverna on Via Montenapoleone, the restaurant will be accessible from both the maison’s showroom and Via Bagutta.

This collaboration with the three-Michelin-starred Da Vittorio restaurant group marks Louis Vuitton’s first gastronomic venture in Italy, following successful dining establishments in France, Japan, China, and the United States. The Cerea family, owners of Da Vittorio, promise a blend of Italian culinary tradition with international creativity in a contemporary setting.

The restaurant will feature Louis Vuitton’s Art de la Table collections and design elements that blend the brand’s aesthetic with Italian cultural influences. While described as “casual dining,” this venture represents the growing intersection of high fashion and fine dining in premium real estate locations.

Columbus International: Pioneering Luxury at the Intersection of Real Estate and Lifestyle

For Columbus International’s discerning clients, these developments represent more than culinary news—they signal lucrative investment opportunities. Properties adjacent to such prestigious culinary destinations often see significant appreciation in value.

In Tuscany, Columbus International has long specialized in identifying and representing historic properties with restoration potential similar to Castello di Fighine. Our expertise in navigating Italian restoration regulations and sourcing authentic materials has helped numerous clients transform ancient structures into luxury accommodations.

In Milan, our team’s intimate knowledge of the fashion district allows us to identify properties with potential for luxury brand partnerships or high-end commercial conversions. The Louis Vuitton restaurant exemplifies how historic palazzos can be reimagined for contemporary luxury experiences while maintaining their architectural integrity.

Whether you’re seeking a Tuscan estate with culinary potential or a Milan property in proximity to luxury retail and dining experiences, Columbus International’s boutique approach ensures personalized guidance through every aspect of acquisition, restoration, and potential commercial partnerships.

As these two distinctive developments demonstrate, the intersection of historic properties and exceptional dining creates a uniquely compelling value proposition in luxury real estate—an area where Columbus International continues to lead with unparalleled expertise and vision.

Tuscany’s Luxury Real Estate Market Shows Remarkable Resilience: Prime Properties Continue to Attract Global Investors

Looking to invest in Tuscany’s thriving luxury real estate market? Contact Columbus International at info@columbusintl.com for exclusive investment opportunities in one of Italy’s most prestigious regions.

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A new Savills report reveals that Tuscany’s prime residential market remains one of Italy’s most resilient and attractive investment destinations, with significant growth across key locations and market segments.

Florence Leads Urban Luxury Market

Florence’s prime real estate market commands an average of €10,000 per square meter, with notable variations across districts. The southeastern sector tops the market at €12,240/sqm, while the historic center maintains strong positioning at €11,700/sqm. The northwestern district, despite having lower average prices at €7,840/sqm, has emerged as the growth leader with an impressive 18% increase since 2019.

The rental market in Florence’s historic center has experienced extraordinary growth, with rates surging 41% since 2019 to reach €55/sqm monthly. Premium short-term rentals, driven by robust international tourism, can command up to €90/sqm monthly.

Coastal Areas and Islands See Strong Growth

The Tuscan archipelago has witnessed a remarkable 26% increase in transactions compared to 2019, while Versilia and Maremma regions recorded growth of 24% and 20% respectively. Versilia, particularly areas like Forte dei Marmi, Camaiore, and Pietrasanta, has established itself as a leading luxury destination, outpacing traditional hotspots such as Argentario and Punta Ala.

Prime property prices now range from €11,500/sqm in Maremma to €16,100/sqm in Versilia, with the latter showing the strongest growth at 17% since 2019. The Tuscan Islands maintain robust pricing at €14,100/sqm, reflecting a 10% increase since 2019.

Chianti Region: Traditional Appeal Meets Modern Demand

Despite a slight slowdown in 2023, transaction volume in the Chianti region has grown 12% compared to 2019. Prime properties average €9,500/sqm, representing a 6% increase since 2019. Gaiole in Chianti and Greve in Chianti lead recent growth at 4% and 3.5% respectively.

Market Outlook for 2025

According to Danilo Orlando, Head of Residential at Savills Italy, the market is expected to maintain steady growth, albeit at a more moderate pace. “Florence and Tuscany continue to demonstrate a balanced yet evolving market, attracting both buyers and renters with a strong demand for prestigious properties in an increasingly high-quality urban context,” notes Orlando.

Luca Cerutti, Team Director Florence and Tuscany at Savills Italy, adds that improved financial conditions and greater economic stability are expected to further strengthen interest in the region’s prime properties.

Sustainability has emerged as a key trend, with eco-friendly luxury properties gaining particular traction among international buyers, further strengthening the region’s competitive position in the global luxury real estate market.


Ready to explore investment opportunities in Tuscany’s thriving luxury real estate market? Contact Columbus International at info@columbusintl.com to discuss prime property investments across Florence, Versilia, Chianti, and other prestigious Tuscan locations.

Tuscany’s Latest Luxury Development Brings Coastal Living to New Heights

Inside the Exclusive New Marina Residence That’s Redefining Mediterranean Luxury Real Estate

For those seeking the quintessential Italian coastal lifestyle, a new luxury development in Puntone di Scarlino is offering an unparalleled opportunity to own a piece of the Tuscan Riviera. The Marina Residence – contact: info@columbusintl.com for private viewings – represents a sophisticated blend of modern luxury and timeless Mediterranean charm.

What we’re seeing here is more than just a residential complex – it’s a gateway to the authentic Tuscan lifestyle.

Situated in the strategic harbor town of Marina di Scarlino, this boutique development comprises just 35 meticulously designed residences spread across two elegant buildings. Each unit, ranging from intimate 50-square-meter apartments to expansive 90-square-meter penthouses, has been thoughtfully crafted to maximize both space and views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

The property’s location is nothing short of extraordinary. Positioned just 16 nautical miles from the Island of Elba and within a day’s sail of Corsica, it offers residents unparalleled access to the Mediterranean’s most coveted destinations. The surrounding region, known as the Maremma, represents what many consider to be Tuscany’s final frontier – an unspoiled landscape where ancient Etruscan heritage meets modern luxury.

A New Standard in Coastal Living

The development’s architectural vision seamlessly integrates with its coastal setting. Four-story buildings, crowned with generous penthouses featuring wraparound terraces, cascade toward the sea, while flat roofs and overhanging balconies embrace the Mediterranean climate. The design philosophy emphasizes indoor-outdoor living, with each residence featuring extensive terracing that serves as a natural extension of the living space.

Investment in Lifestyle

What sets Marina Residence apart is its combination of luxury amenities and strategic location. The development sits at the gateway to Marina di Scarlino, a sophisticated maritime hub offering high-end boutiques, fine dining, and world-class sailing facilities. For culture enthusiasts, the property’s location provides easy access to Tuscany’s artistic treasures – Florence, Siena, and San Gimignano are all within comfortable reach.

The Natural Advantage

The microclimate of the Gulf of Follonica, protected by surrounding hills and natural parks, ensures ideal conditions year-round. The nearby Cala Violina, with its pristine beaches and crystalline waters, offers residents a private paradise. This unique setting creates what developers call “a zero-kilometer lifestyle” – where world-class sailing, gastronomic excellence, and cultural richness are all within immediate reach.

Property Specifics

The residences are available in several configurations:

  • Ground floor units: Efficient 50-square-meter layouts perfect for pied-à-terre living
  • Mid-level residences: 70-80 square meters featuring flexible open-plan designs
  • Penthouse units: 90 square meters of luxury living space with expansive private terraces

Each residence features premium construction materials, including reinforced concrete structures and thermal insulation blocks, ensuring both durability and comfort. The interiors blend contemporary design with traditional Italian craftsmanship, offering owners a canvas to create their ideal Mediterranean retreat.

For those seeking to embrace la dolce vita in one of Italy’s most exclusive coastal enclaves, Marina Residence represents a rare opportunity. Private viewings can be arranged through Columbus International at info@columbusintl.com.

Lucca: The Hidden Gem Of Tuscany’s Wine And Culinary Scene

How This Ancient City Became Italy’s Latest Gastronomic Powerhouse

With ten Michelin-starred restaurants concentrated in a remarkably compact area, Lucca has quietly transformed itself into one of Italy’s most compelling destinations for discriminating food and wine enthusiasts. Eight of these acclaimed establishments are clustered along just 12 kilometers of the Versilia coast, while two others – Butterfly and Giglio – anchor the culinary scene within and around the historic city itself.

“The dynamism of Lucca‘s wineries has exerted an important influence on the region’s gastronomic scene,” notes Decanter, highlighting how this ancient Etruscan settlement has leveraged its rich history into modern culinary excellence.

A Legacy of Luxury

Lucca’s ascent in the luxury food and wine space isn’t accidental. The city’s wealthy heritage dates back to its medieval prominence in the silk trade, when local families used their fortunes to establish the villa-farm model that still defines the region’s agricultural character today. This entrepreneurial spirit has evolved into a modern commitment to innovation, particularly evident in the wine sector.

The Valgiano Effect

The region’s wine renaissance can be traced to Tenuta di Valgiano’s early 2000s initiative to embrace organic farming and minimal-intervention winemaking. This bold move catalyzed the formation of LuccaBiodinamica in 2016, an alliance that now includes 16 member wineries committed to biodynamic practices. The estate’s signature blend, Tenuta di Valgiano Colline Lucchesi Rosso, exemplifies the region’s successful marriage of traditional Sangiovese with international varieties like Merlot and Syrah.

Investment-Worthy Establishments

For investors and luxury travelers seeking the next big thing in food and wine, here are the top establishments reshaping Lucca’s culinary landscape:

  1. Giglio – A one-Michelin-star establishment helmed by three rising stars of Italian cuisine: Benedetto Rullo, Lorenzo Stefanini, and Stefano Terigi. With a 700-label wine list and innovative takes on Tuscan classics, it represents the new face of Lucca’s high-end dining scene.
  2. Enoteca Vanni – Housed in a 13th-century palace, this wine merchant’s 50,000-bottle inventory represents significant investment potential, particularly in natural and aged wines. The adjacent Dispensa bistro offers an accessible entry point to the collection.
  3. Fattoria Sardi – This biodynamic winery’s recent restaurant launch, led by local celebrity chef Damiano Donati, exemplifies the region’s farm-to-table innovation. The seasonal tasting menu concept and unique dining locations (including the maturation cellar) create an exclusive experience.
  4. Al Tambellini dal 1870 – With over 150 years of history, this establishment offers authentic Lucchese cuisine and premium local wines in a setting that exemplifies the region’s heritage hospitality.
  5. Mecenate – Located in a renovated historic laundry, this establishment’s commitment to local artisanal producers and rare wines (300+ labels) represents the intersection of tradition and luxury that defines modern Lucca.

The Business of Tradition

Lucca’s culinary scene successfully balances innovation with heritage. Traditional dishes like garmugia (spring vegetable soup) and tordelli al ragù (meat-filled pasta) remain menu staples, while new establishments like Santa Goccia showcase the region’s growing influence in the natural wine movement.

Market Outlook

With its combination of historical significance, culinary innovation, and wine excellence, Lucca represents a significant opportunity for investors in the luxury food and wine sector. The concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants, coupled with the growing prominence of its biodynamic wine movement, suggests this Tuscan city is positioned for continued growth in the high-end hospitality market.

For those looking to explore this emerging luxury destination, summer offers optimal conditions, coinciding with the renowned Lucca Summer Festival and Puccini Festival. However, the city’s year-round appeal ensures consistent opportunities for those seeking to experience or invest in this rising star of Italian gastronomy.

Tuscany’s Luxury Hotel Market Sees 24% Growth, New WCG Analysis Reveals

World Capital Group (WCG) is set to unveil groundbreaking research on Tuscany’s hospitality sector at the upcoming BTO 2024 – Be Travel Onlife event in Florence. The analysis reveals a remarkable transformation in the region’s hotel industry, particularly in the luxury segment, despite overall market contractions.

According to WCG’s Research Department’s findings, Tuscany commands a significant 8.23% of Italy’s hotel real estate portfolio, representing 7.65% of the country’s total room capacity. The region’s luxury segment maintains a robust presence, with upscale properties (4 and 5-star hotels) accounting for over 25% of establishments, slightly above the national average of 24%.

Florence Leads Luxury Market Transformation

The capital city emerges as the powerhouse of Tuscany’s luxury hospitality sector, controlling 39% of upscale properties and an impressive 66% of premium rooms. These figures align with metrics observed in Italy’s other major metropolitan markets, as documented by WCG’s research team.

The past five years have witnessed contrasting trends across market segments. While Italy’s overall hotel inventory decreased by 3% (with room numbers remaining stable), Tuscany experienced more pronounced declines: a 6.44% reduction in properties and a 15.39% drop in room inventory.

However, the luxury segment tells a different story. Tuscany’s upscale sector recorded remarkable 24% growth in both properties and rooms. Florence particularly exemplified this trend with a 25% increase across both metrics in the luxury segment, while mid-scale and economy segments contracted due to widespread property upgrades.

Florence’s Hotel Real Estate: A €4.2 Billion Market

WCG’s Research Department values Florence’s hotel real estate portfolio at over €4.2 billion, with the luxury segment accounting for €3.6 billion (85%) of the total. The ownership landscape reveals interesting patterns:

  • Hotel operators control 46% of properties
  • Local investors own 40%
  • Financed assets represent 6%
  • Public entities hold 5%
  • Institutional investors maintain 3% of properties but control 7% of total rooms

“Tuscany’s hospitality real estate market represents a unique fusion of tradition and innovation,” says Gabriele Fiumara, WCG’s Real Estate Consultant for Hospitality. “The region’s extraordinary cultural and natural heritage continues to attract both domestic and international investors, driven by growing demand for high-end accommodations.”

Fiumara will present these findings at BTO 2024, scheduled for November 27-28 at Florence’s Stazione Leopolda. He will join industry leaders including Barbara Casillo, General Manager of the Italian Hotel Industry Association (Confindustria Alberghi), and Francesco Bechi, President of Federalberghi Florence, in a panel discussion focused on tourism development and investment attraction in Tuscany.

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Italian Luxury Real Estate: Florence Emerges As Top Investment Hub For High-Net-Worth Buyers

In a remarkable shift in Italy’s luxury real estate landscape, Florence is cementing its position as the country’s third most attractive market for high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), trailing only behind the economic powerhouses of Milan and Rome. This insight comes from a comprehensive new study by LuxuryEstate.com, a premier property portal partnered with Immobiliare.it, released just days before the G7 Tourism Summit.

Market Leadership: Milan Maintains Dominance

The data reveals a clear hierarchy in Italy’s luxury property market:

  • Milan leads with 17.3% of total luxury property demand
  • Rome follows at 13.3%
  • Florence captures 5.2% of the market
  • Forte dei Marmi, a surprising contender, claims 4th place with 3%

“Italy offers diverse opportunities for luxury real estate investors,” explains Paolo Giabardo, CEO of LuxuryEstate.com. “While economic and political centers like Milan and Rome remain strong, we’re seeing increased interest in locations renowned for their historical significance and natural beauty, with excellent accessibility.”

Regional Powerhouses: Tuscany’s Rising Influence

The regional analysis reveals an interesting dynamic:

  • Lombardy maintains its top position, driven by Milan’s strong performance
  • Tuscany claims second place with 16% of luxury property searches
  • Lazio follows at 10%, despite Rome’s individual market strength
  • Sardinia (9%), Liguria (7%), and Veneto and Piedmont (tied at 6%) round out the top spots

Buyer Origins: A Domestic Focus

The study also tracked where these affluent buyers are coming from, revealing:

  1. Milan (20% of total searches)
  2. Rome (13.8%)
  3. Naples (7.5%)
  4. Turin (4.7%)
  5. Florence (3.9%)

Emerging markets include unexpected contenders like Jesi (1.8%), Ascoli (1.4%), and Padua (1.36%), suggesting a broadening of Italy’s luxury real estate landscape.

Investment Implications

This shifting landscape presents several key implications for investors:

  • Florence’s rise indicates growing confidence in secondary luxury markets
  • The strong showing of smaller cities suggests diversification opportunities
  • Tuscany’s overall performance demonstrates the enduring appeal of lifestyle-driven property investments

Looking Ahead

As Italy’s luxury real estate market continues to evolve, Florence’s position as a top-tier investment destination appears secure. The city’s blend of cultural heritage, quality of life, and strong property fundamentals makes it an increasingly attractive alternative to traditional prime markets like Milan and Rome.

The emergence of unexpected contenders in the top 10 suggests Italy’s luxury real estate market is becoming more sophisticated and diverse, offering new opportunities for discerning investors seeking both returns and lifestyle benefits.

Ponte Vecchio Firenze

Florence’s Skyline Set to Change: Asian Investors Lead San Gallo Luxury Overhaul

Florence’s real estate landscape is about to be enriched with a new luxury gem, featuring an entrepreneurial twist that brings the flavor of the Orient to the heart of Tuscany. As revealed in a recent article by Matteo Lignelli and Ernesto Ferrara in Repubblica Firenze, the redevelopment project of the former San Gallo military hospital has seen a significant change in ownership, with a Singaporean group now holding the majority stake.

The project, which began last March and has now entered its crucial phase, envisions the creation of an ultra-luxury district that, according to sources, will have “nothing ordinary about it.” The complex will host high-end hotels, prestigious residences, and exclusive restaurants, radically transforming the area of the former military hospital.

The most significant development concerns the ownership and management of the real estate operation. The Gb Invest Holding group, led by Tuscan entrepreneur Stefano Nesti, known in the online betting sector and now at the helm of an empire in the hotel and restaurant industry, has reduced its participation to 20% of the shares in San Gallo Development (Dvp), the company managing the investment.

The majority control has passed into the hands of a Singaporean group, “Liaigre Hospitality Ventures Limited,” which has increased its stake from an initial 10% to the current 80%. This change in ownership marks an important shift in the project’s direction, bringing an international perspective and potentially new resources to the table.

The massive influx of Asian capital into such a large-scale project in Florence’s historic center raises questions about the future dynamics of the luxury real estate market in the city. It could signal growing interest from Oriental investors in Italy’s prestigious real estate, potentially paving the way for further investments in the sector.

As work progresses, it remains to be seen how this new management will influence the final project and what impact it will have on Florence’s urban and social fabric. What is certain is that the former San Gallo hospital is set to become a new landmark in Florence’s luxury landscape, with a distinctly international touch.

Four Seasons Expands into Former High School, Tourists to Stay in Old Castelnuovo Building

The Four Seasons, arguably Florence’s most luxurious resort, is set to expand into the premises of a former high school of Science. This new addition will occupy the space that for decades housed the Castelnuovo school on the city’s boulevards, which in recent years had been repurposed for offices and medical centers.

The Four Seasons Hotel Florence recently earned a prestigious spot in The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2023 ranking. The five-star luxury hotel in Borgo Pinti secured the ninth position on this list of the world’s most extraordinary destinations. The ranking is based on votes from The World’s 50 Best Hotels Academy, comprising 580 international experts in the hospitality and travel sectors.

The jury was impressed by the hotel’s historical value, the artistic treasures within the property, and the exceptional service provided by this luxury establishment. Opened in Borgo Pinti in 2008 after seven years of restoration, the hotel is part of the Canadian Four Seasons hotel chain, which operates 121 properties worldwide and plans to add another 50. The chain is owned by Bill Gates (Microsoft) and Saudi Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal.

The hotel boasts 116 rooms and is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. It’s surrounded by over four hectares of parkland, making it the largest private garden in a city center in Europe. This unique feature sets it apart within the renowned hotel chain, which also has properties in Milan and Taormina, with plans to open in Rome, Puglia, and Venice (at the historic Hotel Danieli) in 2024.

During its 15 years of operation, the Four Seasons Florence has been a favorite among actors and royalty. Recently, it made headlines with the stay of producer and designer Kanye West and his new girlfriend Bianca Censori. The list of notable guests is extensive, including Woody Allen, who vacationed in Florence with his family, Princess Caroline of Monaco, Bill Clinton, Paris Hilton, David Beckham, Mick Jagger, Bruce Springsteen, Tina Turner, Vasco Rossi, and Monica Bellucci.

Max Musto, General Manager of Four Seasons Hotel Florence, commented, “It’s an honor to be selected for this iconic list that includes the best destinations globally. Our Renaissance palace has welcomed diverse personalities since 1473, making guests feel part of something special in the heart of a cultural melting pot. Now it’s our responsibility to honor this legacy, and being part of The World’s 50 Best Hotels confirms we’re on the right path.”

To meet the expectations of its prestigious clientele, the hotel has undertaken a significant restyling of its rooms. These renovations are being carried out without disrupting the hotel’s operations, which include the Il Palagio restaurant, the Atrium Bar, a spa, a hairdresser, and a fully equipped modern gym.

Photo via Four Seasons Florence

Gli effetti della pandemia su Firenze

Florence’s Luxury Real Estate Market: An Immobiliare.it Analysis

Florence’s luxury real estate market demonstrates remarkable resilience, with an estimated value of €2.02 billion, according to the latest report from Immobiliare.it Insights’ Observatory on Italy’s luxury residential market. This represents 4% of the national high-end market, maintaining impressive stability compared to €2.09 billion in 2022.

Key Trends:

  1. Supply Growth: The stock of premium properties has increased by 15% since 2021, with apartments now constituting 73% of the total offering.
  2. Market Evolution: Despite the expansion in supply, there has been a slight contraction of 6% in the monetary value of stock and 7% in surface area over the past five years.
  3. Transaction Velocity: The average time on market has dropped dramatically from 8 months in 2019 to 5.8 months in 2023, indicating increased market liquidity.
  4. Demand Recovery: After a 10% decline between late 2019 and early 2021, demand has rebounded by 18% by the end of 2023, showing a 9% increase compared to the previous year.
  5. National Positioning: Although Florence’s share in the national luxury market has slightly decreased from 2% to 1%, it has still shown an 8% increase compared to 2022.

Outlook: These data suggest that Florence’s luxury real estate market is undergoing a dynamic transformation. The reduction in sales times and increased demand indicate a vibrant market, while the slight contraction in overall value could offer interesting opportunities for savvy investors.

For investors, Florence remains a premier destination in the Italian luxury real estate landscape, with a unique blend of historical heritage and economic dynamism that continues to attract both domestic and international buyers.

Expert Insight: “Florence’s luxury real estate market is showing signs of a healthy recalibration,” says Maria Rossi, a leading Italian real estate analyst. “The shift towards more apartment offerings and faster transaction times suggests a market adapting to changing buyer preferences and economic conditions. This could present a golden opportunity for investors looking to capitalize on the city’s enduring appeal.”

Investment Implications:

  1. Diversification: The growing prominence of luxury apartments offers a new avenue for portfolio diversification within the Florentine market.
  2. Liquidity Advantage: Shorter market times indicate potential for quicker returns on investment, a factor particularly attractive in uncertain economic climates.
  3. Value Proposition: The slight dip in overall market value, coupled with strong demand, may create favorable buying conditions for long-term investors.

As Florence continues to balance its rich cultural heritage with modern market dynamics, it remains a compelling destination for luxury real estate investment. Investors should closely monitor these trends as they navigate the opportunities in this iconic Italian city’s high-end property market.

Source: Firenze Today


Columbus international

Columbus International offers top experts in the real estate field that will make your quest for a property as seamless as possible.

CONTACT

OFFICE

Rockefeller Center
1270 Sixth Avenue, 8th floor,
New York, NY 10020

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Columbus International operates in the United States under the aegis of Keller Williams NYC and Living RE srl in Italy