Review of JK Place, by Jamie Dunford Wood

JK Place is a boutique hotel in the charming but slightly off-central square of Santa Maria Novella in Florence. It was created by the same architect who worked on the Ferragamo hotels, and the effect is a triumph of elegance and cool, modern eclecticism.

The facilities

Reception at this small boutique hotel is housed in a typically intimate sitting room. The décor provides a modern echo of Renaissance Florence, with walls of cool grey stone and dark wood flooring. Dingin at JK Place is a light affair. Breakfast is eaten at the courtyard dining room, which also holds an all-day light buffet afterwards. Alternately, guests may eat lunch and dinner at the newly-opened JK Lounge, where simple salads and sandwiches are served. Guests find the food delicious and convenient, but often search elsewhere if they're in need of a huge slap-up meal.

The rooms

The 20 classic and superior rooms in this small boutique hotel are little love-nests, with bathrooms often shower-only. However, some have four poster beds, and all have flatscreen TVs and DVD players. Decor is cream, with grey/taupe fabrics, Rocco Forte style.

King suites are best for larger rooms; and book a junior suite for separate showers. These also boast private terraces.

The largest room at JK Place, the Master Room, overlooks the church of Santa Maria Novella, while from the duplex penthouse suite gives guests a view of the Duomo. There is a small rooftop terrace with a long lounge bed, which is incredibly romantic at night.