Clarabelle

Clarabelle: Lazio

Combining antique pieces with modern details, this unique apartment on the top floor of a 16th-century aristocratic palace has plenty of character and Roman soul. Stepping into the living room, you'll find chic decor and vibrant pops of colours, with the red leather armchairs, an animal print chesterfield sofa and abstract artwork. While the statement design pieces really pack a punch, it's the antique objects, low beamed ceiling and floor-to-ceiling bookshelves that caught our attention. Choose a book from the extensive collection for a spot of bedtime reading. Ascend the floating staircase up to the cosy bedrooms, benefitting from sloped wooden ceilings and slatted screens that make for a private and homely space to unwind. Exposed brickwork in the kitchen contrasts nicely with the otherwise clean and modern design, making a great area to enjoy group meals. Elsewhere, those keeping one eye on work during their stay will notice the home office space in the corner of the living room. Emails seen to, it's out for a day spent taking in Rome's most beloved sights – pennies at the ready, Trevi Fountain is just a short four-minute stroll away. The home's position just off Via del Corso means it's easy to get to many of the attractions in the city on foot. Last, but certainly not least, round off a lovely day spent sightseeing with a tipple of limoncello from your private balcony, offering a spectacular view of the church of Sant’Ignazio – it's truly special.

Home truths:
*The bedrooms are under the eaves which makes the ceiling quite low – taller guests mind your head
*There are no barriers on the floating staircase, so please exercise caution
*The bathroom downstairs is only a small half-bath with a toilet and a sink
*While on-street parking is available, it can be fairly expensive and hard-to-come-by in this part of the city, so we recommend making use of the public transport options instead – Barberini metro station is a kilometre away
*If you're bringing little ones along, the host provides a baby cot, highchair and children's books and toys upon request
*The Leonardo da Vinci International Airport is forty minutes (without traffic) from the apartment