Casa d’Annunzio Grand Canal

Although built in the late 19th century for the Austrian Prince Fritz Hohenlohe-Waldenburg and his wife Zina, important members of the Belle Époque aristocracy, actually the most famous inhabitant of the ‘Casetta Rossa’ was Gabriele D’Annunzio - Italy’s iconic poet, playwright, politician, journalist and patriot. The 'little red house' in Venice was accurately and minutely described in his diaries: from the luxuriant canal-facing garden on the Grand Canal (one of the very few), to its marvellous interiors. Recently and painstakingly renovated and restyled by Italian “starchitect” Massimiliano Locatelli, this exquisite private home has been returned to its original splendour with an added overlay of top contemporary styling. A very private house in a world famous setting. 

Property description

South-facing, with many large windows onto the garden and Grand Canal, the divine interiors on all three levels are permeated by a light which also reflects from the vivid canal waters outside - perennial bliss.
There are three entrances, one directly from the Grand Canal through a side garden door, main entrance from the small campo, and a service entrance to the rear.

Ground Floor

The main living area is divided into two, with French windows opening onto the very large garden, lush with pomegranates and rose bushes. There is a canopied dining area perfect for peaceful breakfasts, long lazy lunches and wonderful al fresco dinners.

To the right of the main entrance is a stunning dining room with original mantelpiece, wood panelling and antique mirrors.  Terrazzo flooring throughout. An adjoining service area and kitchen are conveniently positioned to assure effortless service by the 2 household staff. A service entrance and stairway connects all floors.

First floor

Two double bedrooms are situated on the first floor -  A master en-suite bedroom with bathtub and a second double bedroom with adjoining bathroom with shower in Carrara marble. Both have generous views onto the garden and Grand Canal.

A small passage connects to a private media room with bathroom and sofa bed.

Second Floor

Two further bedrooms: a double en-suite bedroom (with tub) and a twin room with cozy sitting area and adjoining bathroom with shower. An external staircase leads to an 'altana' (Venetian terrace) equipped with sun loungers.

Casa d'Annunzio is an extraordinary home - arguably one of the most famous  homes on the Grand Canal. It’s position is prime yet tucked away, facing south and on the most prestigious stretch of the Grand Canal, close to St Marco. A wonderful nordic dream in an amazing Venetian setting.

Ann-Marie's comment: For many years I longed to go inside this house, and one day around 20 years ago I achieved my dream. At that time it was a very classic interior, just as one might have expected, but now it has gone way beyond that, to become the wonderful eclectic mix of classic and top contemporary design it is today, as seen in AD Germany September 21. In a top Grand Canal location yet with a 'House in the Country' feel, it is simply the most adorable place ever to be.

Further information about this apartment

San Marco

This is the historical centre of the town with Piazza San Marco at its very heart and with Venice’s most coveted museums: Palazzo Ducale and Museo Correr. The buildings in this area of town are all on a fabulously grand scale. You will find most of the designer shops and luxury brands around here, including a number of fine jewellers and designers hidden among the colonnades of the piazza itself. The best time to visit is in the evening when the sun sets over the curved domes of St. Mark’s Basilica and live music sweeps across the piazza, defined by Napoleon as the “finest drawing room in Europe”.