Corinthia Rome

In the historic heart of Rome, in Piazza del Parlamento, the former headquarters of the Bank of Italy has been reborn as a refined luxury hotel: Corinthia Rome. Housed within a prestigious neoclassical building designed by Marcello Piacentini in 1914 and later used as the institutional seat of the Bank of Italy, the property has undergone a meticulous restoration promoted by Reuben Brothers in partnership with Corinthia Hotels. The project marks the debut of the Corinthia brand in Italy and perfectly embodies the concept of a “grand boutique hotel,” continuing the group’s tradition of restoring and enhancing landmark historic buildings across Europe. Spanning more than 9,000 square meters across seven above-ground floors, the hotel features 60 guestrooms and suites, including 21 exclusive suites designed to combine the building’s historic charm with contemporary design and the excellence of Italian craftsmanship. The interiors preserve and celebrate original architectural features of exceptional value—including marble finishes, frescoes, carved woodwork, and historic decorative details—reinterpreted through the sophisticated and timeless interior design by G.A. Design. Among the most iconic accommodations is the Theodoli Heritage Suite, created within the former Boardroom and enriched by the original frescoes of Giulio Bargellini. The project also includes lounge areas, a cocktail bar, and three distinct dining concepts curated by Chef Carlo Cracco, all overlooking an elegant internal courtyard that serves as the hotel’s social heart. The signature restaurant Viride, the Piazzetta bistro, and the Ocra Bar complete a gastronomic offering designed to establish Corinthia Rome not only as a luxury hospitality destination but also as a new benchmark for high-end dining and hospitality in the Italian capital. On the lower ground floor, the former bank vault has been transformed into an exclusive spa featuring wellness areas, treatment rooms, and plunge pools inspired by the tradition of ancient Roman baths.

ESA engineering was responsible for the design of the mechanical, electrical, and special systems, as well as fire safety strategies, acoustics, energy performance, and the LEED and WELL certification pathways. The building services design was developed to ensure high levels of comfort, energy efficiency, and operational flexibility, while integrating seamlessly with the architectural constraints of a prestigious historic building. The HVAC system is based on fan coil units and primary air systems, supplemented by radiant panels in common areas and bathrooms, and served by multifunctional units capable of simultaneously producing heating and cooling energy. The condenser water loop, supported by cooling towers, boilers, and groundwater exchange systems, enables efficient energy management throughout the year. High-efficiency air handling units with energy recovery ensure precise control of temperature, humidity, and indoor air quality across guestrooms, wellness facilities, and dining areas, while dedicated systems provide appropriate air treatment for the professional kitchens.

ESA engineering also developed the lighting design concept, aimed at enhancing the building’s historic character and reinforcing the premium hospitality experience of Corinthia Rome. The lighting strategy combines indirect lighting, integrated fixtures, and decorative luminaires to provide high visual comfort and create an elegant, welcoming atmosphere throughout the property. Particular attention was paid to the discreet integration of lighting sources within the interiors, respecting the architecture and existing decorative features. Externally, the architectural lighting of the neoclassical façade highlights the building’s material and compositional details through a restrained and non-intrusive approach, strengthening its representative presence within the urban context.