Palazzo Genazzini opens on June 1, 2026 in Bellagio, Lake Como | News
Palazzo Genazzini, a restored historic lakeside building in the heart of Bellagio, will open on June 1, 2026 following an extensive redevelopment by Francesco Pastorelli Architetti and Studio Reveria.
Located right on the waterfront in one of Italy’s most iconic destinations, the 35-room boutique hotel brings new life to a monumental building with origins dating back to 1721. Combining historic architecture with modern Italian design and panoramic views over Lake Como, Palazzo Genazzini represents a major new addition to the region’s luxury hospitality landscape.
Named after the Genazzini family, who acquired the property in 1788, the palazzo was one of Bellagio’s first catering addresses and later became a recognized stop for Grand Tour travelers in the 19th century. After decades of inactivity, the building has now been carefully restored and reimagined, retaining its historic identity while introducing a contemporary residential approach to hospitality.
The architectural restoration aimed to preserve the original character of the building while adapting it for modern use. Historic elements uncovered during the work – including frescoes, the original stone staircase and the facade’s established color 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 supervised by Alessandro Mauri.
Matteo Mauri, CEO of Palazzo Genazzini, said:
“The project began by recognizing an identity that was already there and that was formed over time. Our work was to preserve and enhance that character rather than introduce something foreign. The focus remained on proportions, materials and light, keeping the building’s original relationship with Bellagio and the lake central to the experience.”
Design
The design approach places particular emphasis on material continuity, craftsmanship and the relationship between the interior and the surrounding landscape. There is consistent use of wood, marble and Moltrasio stone throughout the property, alongside parquet flooring inspired by 19th century villas and silk effect wall finishes that reference Como’s textile heritage.
Natural light was a central part of the architectural concept, with interiors designed to respond to changing conditions throughout the day. Marble, textiles and reflective surfaces have been specially selected for the way they interact with daylight and lake views.
All furnishings throughout the property have been custom designed and produced by Italian artisans, including regional specialists in masonry, carpentry, upholstery, ceramics, lighting and textiles. Subtle references to Bellagio’s architectural and nautical heritage can be found throughout the interior, including circular details inspired by portholes and floral motifs borrowed from historic Lake Como facades.
The landscape design for the project was developed by Roberto Benatti, with terraces and gardens inspired by the layered planting approach of British horticultural designer Gertrude Jekyll. Local species, including banksia roses, cypresses and Trachycarpus palms, are incorporated into the outdoor areas and suite terraces.
Room categories
The property consists of 35 rooms and suites spread over four floors, including 20 suites, with views over Lake Como, the historic center of Bellagio 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 have landscaped terraces overlooking the lake, designed as an extension of the interior spaces. The interior is intended to maintain a residential atmosphere, combining custom furnishings, soft, neutral palettes and locally inspired materials with contemporary comfort.
The Bar, Ristorante Genazzini 1788 and the Rooftop Bar
The property’s dining and social areas include Ristorante Genazzini 1788, an outdoor piazza bar and a rooftop bar with views of Lake Como. These locations will be open to both hotel guests and non-residents, with the aim of creating spaces connected to the daily life of Bellagio and to the hotel itself.
Ristorante Genazzini 1788 serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, with menus focusing on Italian cuisine, alongside selected international dishes. Breakfast will be available to both residents and external guests, while daytime dinner will include lighter fare, pizza and café-style options.
The rooftop bar will focus on aperitivo and evening service, with cocktails developed by Alessandro Grechi, in addition to seafood and sharing dishes. Designed to transition from a daytime terrace to an evening destination, the roof terrace offers panoramic views over Lake Como and the surrounding mountains.
Andrea Pavesio, General Manager of Palazzo Genazzini, added:
“The intention was 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 attention to international visitors and the local community, particularly through the restaurant, bar and rooftop spaces.”
