Belmond has built a reputation for transforming historic properties around the world, and for Swedish designer and architect Martin Brudnizki, reimagining one of their most storied estates in Portofino, Italy, marked a defining moment in his career. "It wasn't about redesigning the hotel; it was about bringing it back to life and honoring its incredible history while giving it a refreshed, contemporary feel for today's guests," he shares. The challenge of balancing past and present only deepened the project’s appeal.
Villa Beatrice, Belmond's first one-key, fully serviced private villa, took shape in 1913 when Tuscan architect Gino Coppedè created it for entrepreneur Attilio Odero. "Every design decision was about authenticity, context, and celebrating the natural beauty and craft traditions of Portofino." Over the years, Brudnizki has developed a philosophy rooted in warmth and hospitality: every guest should feel as though a friend is welcoming them into a home on the Italian coast.
The interiors feel sunlit, layered, and warm. Soft pastel tones draw inspiration from traditional Ligurian façades and the clarity of Mediterranean light. Brudnizki worked closely with both local and international artisans, incorporating Midollino rattan pieces inspired by Chiavari weaving, Genovese lampasso fabrics, Albissola ceramic lamps, and carved timber wall lights from Bartolozzi & Maioli Firenze. "Many of the furniture pieces came from local estate sales and auctions, some painted or adapted to fit the overall scheme."
The lighting design blends bespoke Murano pieces with local discoveries and vintage selections, each chosen to complement the architecture and color palette. "Most ceilings remain original, and our team brought them back to life with meticulous restoration," the designer says. Brudnizki’s creative process began with the villa’s architecture and history, continued through explorations of local craftsmanship and landscape, and then unfolded through research, sourcing, and collaboration. His guiding intent remained constant: "The villa and the rest of Splendido should feel like a lived-in, loved home—full of layers, warmth, and the enduring charm of the Ligurian coast."