This ancient city doesn’t make the headlines for being a design destination, but the charming, historic capital has it in spades – from glamorous, cutting-edge hotels to stylish boutiques, distinctive design stores to fabulous food, many of its attractions are within easy walking distance of one another. On a recent garden hunting trip, I discovered what makes this city one of a kind.
First up, somewhere to stay. Located near Piazza del Popolo, the HOTEL LOCARNO (hotellocarno.com) is a superb art-nouveau-style hotel, steeped in style, traditional character and old-school finishes. A favourite of the Italian arts crowd (Isabella Rossellini’s choice when in Rome), the Locarno boasts marble bathrooms, detailed terrazzo floors, upholstered walls and serious antiques. The elegant courtyard, with its black leather seating and kentia palms, is the go-to…
