Art and design have always been a large part of Florence′s heritage, from its earliest part in the textile industry in the Middle Ages to its prolific art outputs in the Renaissance. Today, Florence is still a city steeped in the traditions of the artisan, who creates handmade products using quality textiles. M.K. Textile Atelier is housed in a light-filled greenhouse within the tranquil gardens on the grounds of Palazzo Pandolfini, a 15th-century palace in central Florence, where you will find Margherita Pandolfini with her design partner Karl Jorns at work hand painting or screen printing their designs on fabrics which will soon become table runners, tote bags or material used to up-cycle vintage chairs.
Margherita says Florence constantly inspires her work, “there is always something new or unexpected to discover when walking around the city – a new fresco, a new courtyard, the city always offers something new to discover”. The design duo′s work is being sold at salubrious department stores, including Bergdorf Goodman, to create one-off installations of a Bedouin-style campsite for a Saudi Prince, with no project the same. So what inspires Margherita when not designing in her sun-filled studio? Here, she shares her NINE.
1. Galleries I Love
I love the Uffizi Gallery for its beautiful selection of paintings and sculptures, and it′s special to me that the unique corridor across the museum on the top floor faces the river Arno with intricate and gorgeous frescoed ceilings and sculptures. I also love Bargello for its beautiful sculptures and its incredible courtyard with the impressive staircase and fountain, where, in summer, they use the space for performances and contemporary art.
Finally, Museo Stibbert has a beautiful collection of antique armour and an art collection by Frederick Stibbert. It is special to me because it is part of my family; Frederick Stibbert was one of my ancestors, and his quirky, engaging style in his collection inspires me and my work.
2. For A Perfect Dinner
I like Il Santo Bevitore for its excellent wine selection and sophisticated food. I also like the atmosphere and interior design.
3. For A Sweet Treat
Rivoire in Piazza della Signoria for the best hot chocolate with whipped cream they serve during the cool winter months.
4. My Florence Style
My dress sense is more eclectic and international, but I believe Italian fashion sense is about elegance and quality, with just the right touch of colour.
5. Favourite Shopping Stores & Streets
Société Anonyme in Sant′Ambrogio. I love this shop for its eclectic, trendy, yet original selection of designers with a great contemporary interior and space that hosts events. They have just opened a second store on via Maggio in Oltrarno, so now Florence has two great outlets.
6. For Sunset Cocktails
For sunset cocktails with a great view of the river Arno, looking to Ponte Vecchio and across to the Uffizi Gallery would be Golden View′s Open Bar via de′ Bardi. The seats by the oversized glass windows at the back of the bar offer priceless views of the city′s incredible buildings.
7. For Art & Culture {beyond the obvious galleries}
Fondazione Fabbrica Europa held at Stazione Leopolda is a great institution for contemporary art exhibitions and dance performances where they showcase a selection of shows at this wonderful venue which is an old train station just west of the city centre, its urban features only adding to the atmosphere of the events.
8. Favourite Green Space In Florence
My favourite green spot is the Boboli Gardens and also the Rose Garden on a summer’s day. Both are great places to walk around and simply relax, soak in some nature in the city’s heart while reading a book and admiring the view of Florence.
9. Escape To The Countryside {best day trip from Florence}
The best countryside escape is to my aunt′s villa in Chianti, Tizzano, near Grassina, just south of Florence. The villa has a wonderful view of the Chianti vineyards with a wonderful pool. Not everyone can simply pop by, but it is the best way to spend a day away from Florence; anywhere in the Chianti region is a good recommendation when travelling in Tuscany.
Photo © Olga Makarova
