If you have yet to visit Florence, the captivating heart of Tuscany, prepare to be enchanted. This storied city, often hailed as the cradle of the Renaissance, is a living museum adorned with world-class art, breathtaking architecture, and tantalizing Tuscan cuisine. Imagine strolling across the iconic Ponte Vecchio, marveling at Michelangelo’s David in the Galleria dell’Accademia, or sipping a cappuccino in a charming piazza surrounded by centuries-old buildings. From the stunning Duomo of Florence to the serene beauty of the Boboli Gardens, the city offers an array of experiences that linger long after your trip ends.
For those seeking a more profound connection to this flourishing city, consider a stay at Abitazione by This Time Tomorrow. This boutique residence transcends traditional hospitality, offering a uniquely personalized experience that immerses you in Florence’s rich culture, art, and history.
Exquisite Residences
Located in the vibrant residential neighborhood of Le Cure, Abitazione provides a tranquil retreat from the tourist crowds. Just a short stroll to the city center, the new tram line stops right in front of the Abitazione, making it easy to explore the city. This neighborhood is alive and full of local shops and craftsmen, offering a very different feel from the t-shirt and souvenir vendors in the city center. The stately neoclassical building, undergoing a renaissance, has been beautifully restored and equipped with modern comforts. It features soaring ceilings, uncovered Venetian tile flooring, and unique artwork, including pieces by 16th-century masters like Jacob de Baecker and Lorenzo Sabatini, along with several hand-restored frescoes. The interiors reflect a luxurious baroque style, with spacious bathrooms and kitchens that boast modern flair. Each residence includes ample outdoor space, and the building features a private rooftop with stunning views.
Having lived in several sophisticated European cities, I see Abitazione as a residence for the tasteful and affluent. The building itself is a masterpiece, filled with curated art and exceptional, comfortable furnishings. Inviting couches in the salon encourage relaxation, while plush beds ensure restful nights, inspiring creativity for your explorations. Art enthusiasts will undoubtedly fall in love with this space. The entrance features stunning mosaic floors, immersing you in the artistry that defines Italy. Every corner of this residence tells a story of history and craftsmanship, creating a sanctuary for travelers.
Curated Living Spaces
Abitazione draws inspiration from Florence’s rich architectural heritage, offering beautifully restored residences. Cassiopesto terrazzo floors, hand-restored frescoes, and elegant furnishings sourced from across Europe evoke Renaissance grandeur. Subtle religious references in the mirrors and bed headboards, along with pomegranate-patterned fabrics and Baroque chandeliers, blend historical charm with contemporary touches. Fully equipped kitchens add modern comfort to these neoclassical surroundings.
Pierre Ferland, founder of This Time Tomorrow, explains, “Guests must feel they are in Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. The damask patterns, color palettes, and art pieces all reflect that.” The residences feature 16th- and 17th-century masterpieces, including works by Flemish artists, Lorenzo Sabatini, and Charles Lebrun. Aquatint etchings by Italian artist Franco Gentilini add a unique touch. In the larger Crepuscolo residence, modern works by Spanish artist Antoni Tapies balance the Old Masters alongside Scandinavian contemporary pieces.
Many residences include private terraces or gardens, ideal for group bookings and special gatherings. During our stay, another large family booked multiple apartments, creating memorable moments while enjoying their own space.
1AM: Adorned with a giant 18th-century tapestry, this residence serves as the cultural heart of the building.
1PM: An ornate residence featuring a lilac fresco and well-spaced rooms, perfect for friends seeking privacy.
2AM: A dramatic space showcasing brooding Baroque masterpieces and an extra-large terrace.
2PM: A residence that balances privacy with a cozy kitchen centerpiece.
3AM: A romantic attico featuring one master bedroom and a lounge with an optional guest bed.
Mezzogiorno: Step directly into the city from this resplendent ground-floor space.
Mezzanotte: A calming ground-floor retreat with a kitchen opening onto one of its two garden spaces.
Crepuscolo: A sprawling three-bedroom lower-level residence boasting unique curved ceilings.
Upon entering Abitazione, we were transported into the world of art as we stepped onto the mosaic floor in the entrance. Resident curator Eric Veroliemeulen warmly welcomed us into our 1PM residence, enhancing our experience. A well-curated selection of artisanal products awaited us, including local olive oil, artisan pasta, and a bottle of fine wine. These thoughtful touches make Abitazione feel like home, where every detail is designed for comfort and enjoyment. We were delighted to find great Italian coffee, along with instructions for making the perfect mocha!
We loved the luxurious bathtub; our first order of business was to brew some coffee and enjoy a soak with fine bath salts and products made with rich and nourishing olive oil. Additionally, we received “salt tokens” that we could exchange for breakfast at the charming neighborhood café, Blasio. Historically used as currency, salt cleverly connected us to local culture, and we delighted in the savory breakfasts and delectable pastries offered.
Immersive Off-Menu Experiences
This Time Tomorrow takes personalization to the next level, curating experiences that go far beyond the typical tourist itinerary. Before our stay, we filled out a quick survey that allowed their team to truly understand our preferences. From that, Eric crafted a bespoke three-night itinerary that made our trip to Florence unforgettable.
We dined like locals, starting each day by exchanging “salt tokens” for a delightful breakfast at Pasticceria Blasio or Caffè Libertà. One evening, we enjoyed a cozy family-style meal at Ristorante Maga Magò, where the Mezza Carbonara was an absolute standout. To help us live like true Florentines, the team also shared a hand-picked list of exhibitions, rooftop bars, and other local favorites like Cantinetta Antinori, ensuring we experienced Florence through a local lens.
The flexibility provided by This Time Tomorrow was another standout feature. We were able to adjust our itinerary on the fly, and they graciously accommodated all our last-minute requests.
Whether you’re discovering the vibrant streets of Florence for the first time or revisiting beloved spots, let This Time Tomorrow be your guide. Embrace the warmth of Italian hospitality, savor exquisite local flavors, and weave your own unique story in the heart of Tuscany.
In addition to what we enjoyed, they offer a range of other signature experiences, tempting us to return:
Truffle Hunting: An immersive experience with Giulio, the truffle hunter, and his dogs through the forests surrounding Florence, culminating in a delightful truffle-infused lunch featuring the treasures unearthed during the hunt.
Perfume Workshop: A guided session with an olfactory specialist, allowing for the creation of personalized fragrances while experimenting with rare raw materials and learning the art of perfumery.
Ferragamo Museum: Special access to this exclusive museum, providing a fascinating glimpse into the history of one of Italy’s most iconic fashion houses.
Art Walk: An exploration of hidden Renaissance masterpieces with an expert guide, delving deep into the rich artistic heritage of Florence.
Where will you be This Time Tomorrow?
Whether you’re discovering the vibrant streets of Florence for the first time or revisiting beloved spots, let This Time Tomorrow be your guide. Embrace the warmth of Italian hospitality, savor exquisite local flavors, and weave your own unique story in the heart of Tuscany.
But the journey doesn’t end in Florence. This Time Tomorrow also invites you to explore exquisite residences in Marrakesh, with plans for expansion into charming secondary European cities like Porto, Marseille, and Bordeaux. Visit This Time Tomorrow and embark on the next exciting chapter of your travels.
