Inside a venetian palazzo: a family's legacy of style & design
Malfalda Arrivabene’s life unfolds within the opulent walls of Palazzo Papadopoli, a Venetian landmark steeped in history and now home to the Aman Venice hotel. But for the Arrivabene family, descendants of the Italian royal house of Savoy, this isn’t just a business venture; it’s a continuation of a centuries-old legacy of beauty and craftsmanship.
A family affair: from royalty to retail
Generations have called this grand palazzo home, and in 2013, the Arrivabenes relocated to the top floor as the palazzo transitioned into a luxury hotel. The family’s design acumen extends beyond their own residence. Malfalda’s sisters, Viola and Vera, spearheaded Vibi Venezia, reimagining classic Venetian slippers for the modern age. Meanwhile, their father, Count Giberto Arrivabene Valenti Gonzaga, transformed a personal passion into Giberto Venezia, a homewares line that now encompasses everything from Murano glassware to frames and objets d’art.
Malfalda has recently joined the family business, assuming a pivotal role in global development strategy. She's tasked with expanding Giberto Venezia's reach, bringing a piece of Venetian artistry to a wider international audience. While the brand maintains a presence on Venice’s Rialto Bridge, recent expansions include pop-up shops in New York and Palm Beach, the latter offering a particularly successful introduction to a new clientele. “The response to the craftsmanship and heritage was truly remarkable,” Malfalda shared, reflecting on the Palm Beach launch.
A recent survey offered a glimpse into Malfalda’s personal sanctuary within this historic setting. Her living room, anchored by a plush red velvet sofa piled high with cushions, serves as the heart of the family, a space for gatherings, intimate conversations, and cherished memories. “That sofa has witnessed more than 30 years of family life and holds a particularly special place in my heart,” she confessed.
The Arrivabene’s aesthetic extends beyond their home. Malfalda’s curated recommendations offer a window into her Venetian world and personal style. She champions the Chahan gallery, frequents the Aman Venice (a martini del conte in the garden is a must!), and gifts Giberto Venezia hearts—particularly the vibrant red—to hosts. Her advice? “Good music and good drinks are key to any successful gathering.”
Beyond the specifics of décor, Malfalda’s style is defined by understated elegance. She advocates for a white T-shirt in every suitcase and favors the designs of Luisa Beccaria. Her reading list includes the epic scope of Leo Tolstoy’s War and Peace, and her wrist is adorned with a Cartier Pasha watch, a treasured gift from her father. Aloisia jewelry, a Florentine family business, consistently captures her attention, her wish list eternally filled with their timeless creations.
Escaping the throng of tourists, Malfalda finds solace on the Lido, a short swim away. And when adventure calls, she explores the Greek islands, citing Kastellorizo and Leipsoi as particular favorites. Her mother, Bianca, serves as her ultimate style icon, embodying a subtle sophistication that transcends trends.
Ultimately, the Arrivabene family’s story is a testament to the enduring power of heritage, design, and a deep connection to the beauty of Venice. It's a reminder that the most exquisite spaces are often those imbued with family history and personal meaning. The Palazzo Papadopoli is more than just a hotel; it’s a living, breathing legacy.