text Sabrina Bozzoni
Matteo Bartolini, soul of Bartolini Firenze
Where home means excellence
A world of excellence for the home. How did the Bartolini story begin?
The business started in the 1920s as the classic corner shop selling aluminium saucepans and articles for the home. And it stayed that way until the 50s. After the flood, it became a boutique for tableware and gifts, with the most prestigious Italian brands and, for the first time, European goods. Today we have over 150 suppliers and we’re trying to continue and reignite interest in these products by adding consultancy and other services. At the moment we also have a new company dedicated to hospitality, restaurants and shipbuilding.
Three must-have items from your shop?
It’s always worth investing in kitchen knives; cast iron pans for specific cooking techniques, and wine glasses worthy of the superb labels we’re surrounded by.
A personal tour of places where taste and design meet?
I’m not a huge explorer of places, but I’ve noticed a growing interest in unconventional, mix & match and highly personal design in Florence. A few examples? Cibrèo Restaurant & Cocktail Bar at the Helvetia & Bristol, Hotel Number Nine, OV Osteria Vegetariana and 25hours Hotel Florence.
The latest Bartolini favourites for the new season?
A fun Bordallo Pinheiro table set, a Big Green Egg barbecue, and of course aluminium frying pans by Agnelli.
Your best places to escape to in the city?
Definitely the streets of the historic centre; they’re my favourite place, and I always take a different route. But my real haven is my friends.
Florence is…
Home!
