In an exciting and innovative collaboration, Italian luxury fashion brand Aquazzura has debuted its first-ever bar at the iconic Hotel de Russie, a Rocco Forte Hotel, marking the brand’s entry into the hospitality world. This partnership, which coincides with Hotel de Russie’s 25th anniversary, brings together the world-renowned style of Aquazzura and the timeless elegance of one of Rome’s most storied hotels, creating a unique destination that elevates the essence of luxury and exclusivity.
A Hidden Oasis: The Aquazzura Bar at Hotel de Russie
Nestled in a secluded corner of the hotel’s lush grounds, the Aquazzura Bar presents an enchanting escape in the Valadier Garden, a hidden oasis within the historic hotel. Guests are welcomed by the grandeur of Hotel de Russie’s majestic entrance, leading them to an intimate courtyard where nature and design blend harmoniously. This tranquil sanctuary offers a captivating ambiance, evoking the romance of La Dolce Vita while remaining concealed from the hustle and bustle of the streets of Rome.
Inspired by the Aquazzura Casa Secret Garden tableware collection, the bar’s design embraces a botanical motif, evoking 18th-century illustrations with rich tones of green, birds, and butterflies. The lush design seamlessly complements the garden’s natural beauty, transforming the space into an enchanting escape that feels like stepping into a living, breathing fairytale.
An Elegant Design With Playful Elements
The design of the Aquazzura Bar reflects the brand’s distinctive aesthetic, merging elegance with a sense of whimsy. Dual-patterned, custom-made awnings frame the space, featuring Aquazzura’s signature black and white stripes on the exterior, while the interior reveals the brand’s playful Secret Garden motif. This ever-changing visual narrative captures the essence of both the brand and the hidden oasis.
Hand-painted Portuguese tiles featuring delicate lemon motifs add a touch of Italian charm to the bar, paying homage to the country’s vibrant citrus groves. The design by Casa do Passadiço incorporates elegant metal outdoor furniture, including tufted chairs and plush sofas, creating a comfortable yet sophisticated atmosphere. Lush greenery, trelliswork, and lemon trees in striped planters further enhance the feeling of a secret garden, beautifully framed by the dramatic courtyard gardens of Hotel de Russie.
A Cocktail Experience Like No Other
The Aquazzura Bar’s cocktail menu, crafted by Federico Pavan and executed by Matteo Capezzuoli, reflects Edgardo Osorio’s renowned passion for tequila. Signature drinks are expertly prepared with a focus on precision and a dash of magic. Standout creations include the monthly rotating Frozen Margarita, made with premium tequila, fresh lime, and seasonal fruits, as well as the Agave Nero, a tequila-based twist on the classic Espresso Martini.
Guests can also indulge in a refined selection of tapas curated by Chef Fulvio Pierangelini, Creative Food Director of Rocco Forte Hotels. These exquisite tapas are served on the Aquazzura Casa porcelain collection, offering a complete gastronomic experience that mirrors the playful yet sophisticated nature of the bar.
A Magical Atmosphere and Curated Hospitality
Every detail of the Aquazzura Bar has been meticulously curated to create an unforgettable experience. From the bespoke cocktail presentations to the carefully selected table settings, the aim is to elevate the ambiance of this hidden Roman gem. The collaboration between Aquazzura and Hotel de Russie brings together two worlds of elegance, style, and hospitality to create a space where guests can unwind, enjoy world-class cocktails, and be immersed in an atmosphere of beauty and magic.
As Lydia Forte, Director of Events and Experiences at Rocco Forte Hotels, beautifully describes: “Edgardo and I dreamed up Aquazzura Bar amid holiday’s ease—relaxed, laughing, surrounded by friends—and aimed to bottle that vibe. Our job, at its heart, is to make people happy, embracing each guest and magically uplifting their mood. It’s in the details: the bartender’s friendly nod, the glass’s delicate line, the ice’s clink, the cocktail’s balanced flavor profile, the sounds and scents of the garden. Yet, what lingers is a feeling and finally…a memory of that feeling.”
Edgardo Osorio, the founder of Aquazzura, shared his personal vision behind this exciting project: “I have always been passionate about interiors and hosting. To me, hosting is an act of love—you create an experience for your guests, from the music to the food, to how the table is set. It has always been a dream of mine to translate the world of Aquazzura into a hospitality space.”
A New Era of Luxury and Design
With the opening of the Aquazzura Bar at Hotel de Russie, the collaboration between Aquazzura and Rocco Forte Hotels offers an innovative fusion of design, hospitality, and elegance. It is a place where beauty, style, and tradition come together effortlessly, ensuring guests experience a unique, unforgettable moment in the heart of Rome.
