A restoration of an historic 15th century palazzo in the heart of Venice has created a collection of exquisite apartments behind its listed facade with interiors by Milan’s most fashionable design house.

Marcel Proust once said: ‘When I went to Venice I discovered that my dream had become incredibly, but quite simply, my address’.

Palazzo Molin del Cuoridoro is said to inspire similar sentiments as it is located in San Marco, in the romantic lanes of the Frezzerie and only a few steps away from the historic opera house, La Fenice.

The palazzo stands at the meeting point of the Barcaroli and Fuseri Canals, reached from the private Calle del Cuoridoro. The building is listed by the Belle Arti (heritage authorities), and is noted for the historical importance of its facades and architecture.

Its name, del Cuoridoro, reflects the ancient art of painting on golden leather, which was popular from the 15th to the 17th centuries. Many noble palaces in Venice had walls and furniture decorated with Cuoridoro panels.

At the entrance to the palazzo is a striking coat of arms of its original owners, the noble family of Molin. A central lobby opens onto a lush secret courtyard with a water feature, in the great Venetian tradition of hidden outdoor spaces. It has 18 luxury apartments which have a mix of contemporary style contrasting with the palazzo’s fascinating lineage and position. The building also has its own private water gates at the confluence of the canals.

Milan based CULTI has aimed to create sophisticated, striking interiors, respecting and enhancing the period architectural features and high ceilings, while incorporating decor, furnishings and services in an elegant, classic and contemporary style.

The design of the interiors has focused on promoting the benessere or well being of the living spaces, maximising natural light and bespoke specifications such as marmorino walls with a plaster finish derived from ancient techniques used in Pompeii and Ancient Greece and used in the Venetian tradition. There is also terrazzo alla veneziana or parquet floors, air conditioning and marble bathrooms.

Stylish communal areas and a viewing deck on the top floor of the Palazzo, over the fabulous buildings and waterways of the city, are for exclusive use by the residents of the Palazzo.

The low key yet exclusive level of organisation creates a feeling of serenity and relaxation in contrast to the busy world outside. A personal and discreet Concierge service is available, plus maid service, if desired.

Prices start around €750,000 to €950,000 for ground floor apartments to around €2.6 million. The two piani nobili apartments on the first floor of the palazzo are priced around €5 million.

‘The apartments represent a very strong investment opportunity. The high end rentals market in Venice is extremely buoyant. We can also offer a bespoke rentals service to our clients, taking care of every aspect of property management,’ said Ann-Marie Doyle of Venice Sotheby’s Realty which is handling the sale.