Deck The Halls

Experience Andrea Crespi’s Festive art installation at Hotel Savoy, inspired by Italian Traditions of Play.

For Italians, play is more than a fleeting pastime; it’s a beloved ritual, an integral part of everyday life. Italy itself is a playground, with sun-dappled vineyards, lively piazzas, and ancient streets inspiring an unhurried, artful approach to living. This is a land where creativity flows freely, from the brushstrokes of Renaissance masters to the craftsmanship of haute couture and the simple perfection of handmade pasta. This spirit finds its fullest expression at Christmas time, as family and friends gather to revel in the warmth of tradition and shared moments.

This festive season, Hotel Savoy brings this Italian spirit of gioco to life with Deck the Halls, an imaginative installation by renowned Italian artist Andrea Crespi. Known for his willingness to push traditional boundaries and invite viewers to ‘look beyond the visible’, Crespi transforms the hotel’s lobby into an immersive celebration of Italian heritage and holiday magic. “Since I was young, I’ve been drawn to art as a way to find my place in the world,” Crespi reflects, “and to build a bridge between tradition and the future.” With Deck the Halls, he extends this bridge to every guest at Hotel Savoy, creating moments of togetherness and celebrating family - a core pillar of Rocco Forte Hotels.

Andrea Crespi and his masterpiece

The Art of Play

At the heart of Crespi’s installation stands a reimagined Christmas tree, a towering sculpture composed of playing cards giving a playful yet profound nod to Italy’s holiday tradition of gathering for games. Familiar favourites like Burraco  and Scala Quaranta bring families together around the table, where every card dealt becomes a ritual of connection and laughter. “One of my favourite memories is gathering with family to play cards or board games after lunch or dinner,” Crespi shares. “In this piece, I wanted to bring back that moment of play, reinterpreting tradition and preserving the value of authentic connection.” Each card in the installation bears Crespi’s distinct stylistic touch, adorned with Renaissance-inspired designs that honour Florence’s artistic legacy.

With subtle references to Michelangelo’s David and motifs celebrating the city’s historical beauty, Crespi’s work turns a familiar holiday symbol into a powerful reflection of Italy’s cultural heritage. Supporting this vision is Cartamundi, a global leader in card production and the technical sponsor behind Deck the Halls. With a legacy that includes Grimaud - a historic French playing card brand - their commitment to quality and craftsmanship has allowed Crespi’s artistic concept to flourish with exquisite detail. “Collaborating with Grimaud added tremendous value,” Crespi explains. “Their attention to detail and mastery gave the cards a unique quality, enhancing the project.” Together, Crespi and Grimaud have elevated each playing card to a miniature work of art. 

Deck the Hall at Hotel Savoy with Andrea Crespi

A Meaningful Cause

Beyond its visual charm, Deck the Halls embodies a deeper purpose, embracing the season’s spirit of giving. Limited-edition sets of Crespi’s custom-designed playing cards will be donated to Dynamo Camp’s families, a charity dedicated to providing recreational therapy for children with serious or chronic illnesses. Working closely with the children of Dynamo Camp, Crespi crafted The David of 100, an artwork within the installation that radiates hope and resilience. “Involving the children in this project comes from the desire to support and spread their mission, with the hope of raising awareness about their important work,” Crespi shares. The David of 100 will be showcased at Hotel Savoy during Crespi’s exhibition.

Deck the Halls at Hotel Savoy by Andrea Crespi

Card Castle

Stepping into Hotel Savoy, set within Florence’s historic Piazza della Repubblica, guests are greeted by Crespi’s Card Castle - a whimsical contrast to the hotel’s elegant interiors. The installation transforms the lobby into a lively showcase of art, culture, and festive cheer. “I hope families and guests feel a sense of wonder and connection,” he reflects. “Being in the present, sharing, playing, and rediscovering the magic of the holidays is meant to bring everyone back to that authentic beauty that only this time of year can give us.”

Deck the Halls deals an unforgettable hand - a chance to play, connect, and embrace the season with a touch of Italian flair. Crespi calls it “an invitation to reconnect with one’s inner child and rediscover the ability to be amazed.” Here, art and tradition flow together, crafting moments that feel as timeless as Florence itself.

The Duomo, the Ponte Vecchio, Via de’ Tornabuoni… nowhere has neighbours like Hotel Savoy.

reception.savoy@roccofortehotels.com
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The Duomo, the Ponte Vecchio, Via de’ Tornabuoni… nowhere has neighbours like Hotel Savoy.

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+39 05 527351
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50123 Florence, Italy
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The Duomo, the Ponte Vecchio, Via de’ Tornabuoni… nowhere has neighbours like Hotel Savoy.

reception.savoy@roccofortehotels.com
Phone Number*
+39 05 527351
Address
Piazza della Repubblica 7
50123 Florence, Italy
Florence
View map

1. Personal Data
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2. Events Details

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