Patricia Urquiola Designs New Modern Sanctuary in Italy's Lake Como

Trends come and go in Italy’s bustling fashion capital, Milan, but just an hour away serene Lake Como still accommodates the elite in the grand residences of a bygone age. This summer the opening of a new hotel, Il Sereno Lago di Como, will break the tradition thanks to leading designer Patricia Urquiola. The Spaniard has come up with a modern sanctuary, albeit one with a timeless kind of elegance. The 34 suites, each with a lake view, were built as private hideaways. But the contrast between the hotel’s simple yet sophisticated look and the palatial appearance of its neighbours is sure to draw a few curious stares. Guests can relax at Il Sereno Lago di Como knowing they’ll be in good hands, given Sereno’s experience of managing the excellent Le Sereno hotel on St Barths Beach in Antigua for the past 10 years. ilsereno.com