From brand spanking boutique hotels to fresh fine diners and new artisan retailers, On The Radar is all about spotlighting LUXE’s latest loves.
What:
T Fondaco dei Tedeschi, Venice
Where:
On the Grand Canal by the bella Rialto Bridge
Why we love it:
It’s a sad truth that Venice, the one time mercantile powerhouse, is better known these days for its tatty tourist shops selling faux Venetian masks and gondola keychains than it is for big-name sophisticated retail. But one grand new arrival is posed to put the chic back into shopping in La Serenissima.
The brand spanking T Fondaco dei Tedeschi department store is the work of luxury travel retail group DFS (yes, they of airport duty-free), but their latest offering is about as far from a gate-side plug converter counter as you can imagine.
First, there’s the setting – a C.13th palazzo that has been painstakingly overhauled by Dutch architecture firm OMA. Soaring levels of elegant arches and terrazzo floors have been restored to their original glory, framed by shiny scarlet escalators, wood paneling and brass chandeliers.
And then there’s the buyables. All the established Italian label Mabels are here such as Fendi, Gucci, Armani, Valentino et al, alongside a selection of made-in-Venice wares including bright Murano glass, lace and brocade linens.
There’s a dedicated gourmand corner heaving with olive oils, cheeses, pasta and sweet edible souvenirs, while Starck-designed Amo cafe/bakery is perfectly positioned for that mid-retail refuel.
Time will tell if T Fondaco dei Tedeschi sustains its initial chic-cred. If nothing else, pop there for the Grand Canal situ – the top-floor terrace and exhibition space offer wow vistas of the city’s winding waterways and outlying islands. Exquisito!
Calle del Fontego dei Tedeschi, Rialto Bridge, 30124 Venice. dfs.com
For more Venice must-visits check out the LUXE Venice guide.
