HotelChatter

Inside the hotel, hallways have been re-carpeted, furniture has been updated, walls have been re-papered—even the vintage brass elevator chambers got a facelift. The new look of the rooms and suites is the work of London-based designer Anita Rosato, who's also worked on the interiors at Chewton Glen, Le Meridien Picadilly and Sheraton Rome.

And we can say, after having walked through a few of the freshly-renovated rooms themselves, the new blue-white-gray color scheme is definitely a hit: the effect is just the right mix of decadence and class. And in the Executive Rooms, which are just a step up from the standard Classic Room, come with their own sitting area, complete with desk, armchair, flat-screen TV and a window.

Other restoration work focused on the lobby itself, which has been expanded, and boasts a giant crystal chandelier hanging over a gorgeous sunlit room with marble walls and floor. The room connects the reception desk with the rest of the hotel, and it was quite a thrill (for us, at least) to simply sit and stare up at the bright green frescoes on the ceiling. Vases of fresh flowers placed on a circular divan in the center of the room only add to a sense of opulence.

Luxury, indeed!

Rates start at around $137/night.

[Photos: HotelChatter; Starwood]