Palazzo Genazzini, a restored historic lakeside property in the heart of Bellagio, will open on 1 June 2026 following an extensive redevelopment by Francesco Pastorelli Architetti and Studio Reveria.
Positioned directly on the waterfront in one of Italy’s most iconic destinations, the 35-room boutique hotel brings renewed life to a landmark building with origins dating back to 1721. Combining historic architecture with contemporary Italian design and panoramic views across Lake Como, Palazzo Genazzini represents a significant new addition to the region’s luxury hospitality landscape.
Named after the Genazzini family, who acquired the property in 1788, the palazzo was among Bellagio’s earliest hospitality addresses and later became a recognised stop for Grand Tour travellers during the 19th century. Following decades of inactivity, the building has now been carefully restored and reimagined, preserving its historic identity while introducing a contemporary residential approach to hospitality.
The architectural restoration focused on retaining the building’s original character while adapting it for modern use. Historic elements uncovered during the works – including frescoes, the original stone staircase and the façade’s established colour palette – have been carefully preserved and integrated throughout the project.
Interior design and styling were developed by Studio Reveria, founded by Laura Delfina Sari and Diego Paccagnella, with construction overseen by Alessandro Mauri.
Matteo Mauri, CEO of Palazzo Genazzini, said:
“The project began with recognising an identity that was already there, shaped over time. Our work was to preserve and reinforce that character rather than introduce anything extraneous. The focus remained on proportion, materials and light, allowing the building’s original relationship with Bellagio and the lake to remain central to the experience.”
Design
The design approach places particular emphasis on material continuity, craftsmanship and the relationship between interiors and the surrounding landscape. Wood, marble and Moltrasio stone have been used consistently throughout the property, alongside parquet flooring inspired by 19th-century villas and silk-effect wall finishes referencing Como’s textile heritage.
Natural light formed a central part of the architectural concept, with interiors designed to respond to changing conditions throughout the day. Marble, textiles and reflective surfaces were selected specifically for the way they interact with daylight and views across the lake.
All furnishings across the property have been custom designed and produced by Italian artisans, including regional specialists in stonework, carpentry, upholstery, ceramics, lighting and textiles. Subtle references to Bellagio’s architectural and nautical heritage appear throughout the interiors, including circular detailing inspired by portholes and floral motifs drawn from historic Lake Como façades.
Landscape design for the project has been developed by Roberto Benatti, with terraces and gardens inspired by the layered planting approach associated with British horticultural designer Gertrude Jekyll. Local species including banksia roses, cypresses and Trachycarpus palms have been incorporated throughout the outdoor spaces and suite terraces.
Room Categories
The property comprises 35 rooms and suites across four floors, including 20 suites, with views across Lake Como, Bellagio’s historic centre and the surrounding mountains.
Accommodation categories include Superior Rooms, Prestige Rooms, Junior Suites, Suite Bellagio, Corner Suites and the signature Suite Genazzini. Interconnecting options will also be available for families and groups.
Several first-floor suites include landscaped terraces overlooking the lake, designed as extensions of the interior spaces. Interiors are intended to maintain a residential atmosphere, combining bespoke furnishings, soft neutral palettes and locally inspired materials with contemporary comfort.
The Bar, Ristorante Genazzini 1788 and the Rooftop Bar
Dining and social spaces at the property will include Ristorante Genazzini 1788, an outdoor piazza bar and a rooftop bar overlooking Lake Como. These venues will be open to both hotel guests and non-residents, with the intention of creating spaces connected to the daily life of Bellagio as well as the hotel itself.
Ristorante Genazzini 1788 will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner, with menus centred on Italian cuisine alongside selected international dishes. Breakfast will be available to both residents and external guests, while daytime dining will include lighter dishes, pizza and café-style options.
The rooftop bar will focus on aperitivo and evening service, offering cocktails developed by Alessandro Grechi alongside seafood and sharing plates. Designed to transition from daytime terrace to evening destination, the rooftop will provide panoramic views across Lake Como and the surrounding mountains.
Andrea Pavesio, General Manager of Palazzo Genazzini, added:
“The intention has been to create a hotel that reflects the history and atmosphere of Bellagio while offering a contemporary hospitality experience. The project has been developed with equal consideration for international visitors and the local community, particularly through the restaurant, bar and rooftop spaces.”
