The restoration of the Palazzo Coppini: a new chapter for culture and events

The initial project for Palazzo Coppini envisioned the creation of a historic residence and a hotel made up of ten serviced apartments. Renovation work on the entire building began in 2012, but in the autumn of the same year, the owners decided to take a new direction. They abandoned the original tourism and hospitality plan in favor of a restoration project that would transform the space into a Center for Studies and International Meetings. This new vision aligned perfectly with the mission of the Romualdo Del Bianco Foundation – Life Beyond Tourism, which has been promoting international relations and cultural exchange since 1991.

A cultural center that celebrates history and memory

The restoration of Palazzo Coppini has given rise to a monument of memories, represented by books (over 8,000 volumes written in ten alphabets and multiple languages), artifacts, and objects displayed throughout the rooms (seven rooms spread across the ground and first floors). These objects, donated by students, professors, institutional representatives, and friends of the Foundation, are tangible symbols of the harmonious human relationships that have emerged through the activities promoted by the Foundation in Tuscany.

Spatial design: a restoration with meticulous attention to detail

The design of the spaces focused on highlighting the details while keeping the layout largely unchanged. The main challenge was adapting the historic spaces to new functions, while respecting the aesthetic coherence and the unified image of the building. Nonetheless, each space was designed with its own distinct identity, reflecting the various activities and functions it was meant to host.

The restoration paid particular attention to preserving the building’s historical and architectural features, although in some cases a more assertive intervention was necessary. A significant example of this approach is the Renaissance helical staircase, which, thanks to a design solution, has finally been made visible. In the past, its location made the staircase difficult to appreciate, but today it serves as the visual centerpiece of a space specifically designed to highlight it. The path to the “spiral” has been emphasized through a design that exposes the metal reinforcements, creating a striking contrast with the intentionally dark surroundings and focused lighting.

The importance of the structures and building systems

One of the most complex challenges was maintaining functionality without compromising the building’s aesthetic appearance. For example, the steel structure adjacent to the historic columns was necessary to support the load of the arches above, but this resulted in a change to the ceiling’s appearance, which was originally much more articulated.

The installation of the electrical systems was another significant intervention. The conduits required for the electrical system were particularly intrusive, necessitating channelling work that, in a historic structure, had to be minimized. Nevertheless, all regulatory requirements were met, and modern technologies were integrated without compromising the building’s historical value.

Lighting: a key element in enhancing the space

The selection of lighting fixtures was another key decision in the restoration project. Custom-made wall sconces were designed for the common areas and corridors, while suspended ceiling lights with metal cables were used in the seven rooms. This approach allowed the vaulted ceilings on the ground floor and the coffered ceilings on the first floor to remain fully visible, without compromising the lighting of the spaces.

The completion of the restoration and the new role of Palazzo Coppini

In 2013, after years of work, the restoration of Palazzo Coppini was finally completed. This palace, which is part of Florence’s urban history, is now open for public use, offering its rooms and facilities to institutions, organizations, associations, and businesses wishing to host activities, conferences, or meetings in a prestigious setting.