Hybrid co-living and co-working firm The Student Hotel (TSH) has received a key zoning permit for its landmark 82,000 m2 mixed-use development in the Italian city of Florence.
Anchored by a 550-room TSH hotel, the scheme in Belfiore will include 3,000 m2 of co-working office space under TSH’s Collab brand, an inhouse Commons restaurant, a 1,500 m2 supermarket, 600 parking spaces, plus a pool and gym.
The project represents the largest of five developments the Amsterdam-headquartered company has in Italy, with three now slated in Florence, one in Rome, and one in Bologna. According to the firm, it takes TSH’s total investments in the Italian market to around €375 mln, with six further projects targeted.
'The stunningly beautiful city of Florence is a magnet for TSH’s core community of international students, but its popularity also means there is huge pressure on accommodation close to the centre,' said Charlie MacGregor, TSH founder and CEO.
'The planned development at Belfiore is one of the largest in the city and our second in Florence. It will create a vibrant and attractive alternative destination for visitors and locals alike at a site that has been a wasteland for 12 years.'
Site substructure preparation safety work is due to start late summer and following final building permit approval next year, construction will begin on the new Florence site, which is scheduled to open in September 2022.
According to TSH, Florence has the third largest student population in Italy and a large international contingent due to the 27 international educational programmes on offer in the city.
