A terrace overlooking the water: the privilege of experiencing St Mark’s Basin

Strolling along the famous Riva degli Schiavoni, Venice’s most picturesque waterfront, one can breathe in the authentic essence of the Serenissima. This extraordinary, monumental setting, which since the 19th century has taken on an increasingly elegant and cosmopolitan character thanks to the presence of prestigious palaces and historic hotels – including the iconic Hotel Danieli – remains one of the city’s most exclusive addresses to this day. It is against this backdrop – unique in the world, where history, art and beauty coexist in perfect harmony – that we find this extraordinary duplex residence, enhanced by a spectacular panoramic terrace overlooking St Mark’s Basin. A privileged vantage point from which to witness Venice’s most iconic events: the fireworks of the Festa del Redentore, the Regata Storica, the Carnival and the ever-changing spectacle of the lagoon, which shifts in light and colour throughout the day. The property is set within an elegant period building, accessed via a typical, quiet tree-lined courtyard, and spans the second, third and fourth floors. Upon crossing the threshold, you are greeted by a refined reception hall, embellished with characteristic leaded-glass windows offering a picturesque view of the small square and the Church of Giovanni in Bragora. The fine finishes and authentic Venetian terrazzo floors lend the rooms a timeless elegance. From here, you enter the living area, where the view over St Mark’s Basin and the island of San Giorgio immediately captures the eye. The elegant dining room blends harmoniously with the open-plan kitchen, which benefits from double exposure and a favourable south-facing aspect, ensuring extraordinary natural light throughout the day. This floor also features a guest bathroom, a bedroom with a walk-in wardrobe and a splendid master suite, embellished with original frescoes and connected to a spacious bathroom with a window. A comfortable stone staircase leads to the upper level, where an elegant sitting room, adorned with decorated ceilings, heralds the property’s masterpiece: a terrace of approximately 50 square metres, which is simply spectacular. From this authentic living room suspended above the lagoon, the view takes in the Basin of St Mark’s, the Island of San Giorgio, St Mark’s Square, Punta della Dogana, the Giudecca and stretches all the way to the Lido of Venice. A rare and unique space, designed for enjoying exclusive moments, hosting receptions, al fresco dinners or simply letting oneself be enchanted by one of the most extraordinary panoramas in the world. On the opposite side of the floor is a second, elegant lounge with a Venetian terrazzo floor and direct access to a charming little terrace overlooking the greenery of the small square and the city’s rooftops, from which ‘El Paron’, the iconic St Mark’s Bell Tower, rises in all its grandeur. This level is completed by a spacious bedroom with an en-suite bathroom and a walk-in wardrobe. The property also features a convenient storage room on the ground floor, a feature of great value and practicality in the Venetian context. The elegance of the historic building, the charm of the original finishes, the unrivalled location and the magnificent panoramic terrace make this property one of the city’s most exclusive residences. A property of extraordinary prestige which, through a skilful refurbishment project, will be able to fully realise its potential, transforming it into a truly unique prestigious residence.