Riva Lofts

VISI designer and junior décor editor Gera Smuts lost her heart and soul in Firenze, Florence, Italy and she says the place to stay there is Riva Lofts.

Just outside of the city the rustic exterior of the loft-villa’s are in complete contrast with the sleek, modern interiors.

A home open to modern travelers, the owners describe Riva Lofts as a “sensitive mixture of materials, settings, furnishings, of antique objects and contemporary architectural details: a cross-sectional landscape for curious minds”.

All guests, no matter which of the gorgeous studios you choose to stay in, have access to the large cross-vaulted sitting room with bookcases and fireplace overlooking the private garden and the crystal swimming pool in white sandstone.

Gera says once you arrive, grab a vintage bicycle and head down the road to Vivoli for the best gelato in town.

More information: www.rivalofts.com