The Diary of a Hotel Addict
Armani Hotel Milano at Via Manzoni 31
© yohanes.budiyanto, 2014
HISTORY
Armani Hotel Milan is the brainchild of one of the world's most prominent living designers of our time, Giorgio Armani. As the owner of one of the most profitable global fashion empires in the world, Armani is one true visionary and trend-setter. He is among the few Italian designers that put Milan on the global fashion map. Since the debut in 1975, the Armani empire has expanded and diversified from fashion to food (pioneered with Emporio Armani Cafe), beauty (Beauty and fragrance range in collaboration with L'oreal), furniture / home furnishings (Armani Casa), flower (Armani Fiori), confectionary (Armani Dolci), and now luxury hotels.
The very first Armani Hotel opened on 27th April 2010 in Dubai within the tallest structure in the world at 828m, the Burj Khalifa. It was probably a surprising move for some that Armani's debut hotel was outside his native hometown of Milan, -unlike the Bvlgari with its eponymous Bvlgari Hotel Milano back in May 2004; but as the concept is a joint venture with one of the world's leading property developers, EMAAR, so it is befitting that the first hotel opened within the group's flagship property in Dubai.
Armani Hotel Milano was scheduled to open not long after Dubai; but due to series of delays, the hotel finally opened on 10th November 2011 atop Armani's flagship building on Via Manzoni 31. The 7 storey building circa 1937 is a landmark in the area, and it is interesting to note that the original architect (Enrico Griffini) designed the building to shape like the word "A" from above (check it out on Goggle Map), -coincidentally fits Armani's initial.
LOCATION
Roberto Cavalli may have dubbed the hotel building a psychiatric hospital; but no one can deny its strategic location at the apex of Milan's Quadrilatero della Mode, the Via Monte Napoleone fashion district, -Milan's answer to Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré in Paris. The area surrounding Via Monte Napoleone, Sant' Andrea, Gesu, Borgospesso, Santo Spirito and della Spiga is home to the flagship presence of almost all of Italian and International luxury fashion brands, including Bvlgari, Bottega Veneta, Gucci, Prada, Salvatore Ferragamo, Ermenegildo Zegna, Versace, Fendi, Etro, Missoni, Hermes, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Valentino, St. Laurent, Chanel and Acqua di Parma to name just a few. This is the ultimate destination for shopaholics, and with the prices of luxury goods here considerably lower than Asia, it is an absolute crime to go home empty handed. It comes at no surprise that during Milan's Fashion Week, top hotels around the area are full sold out (including Four Seasons at Via Gesu; Grand Hotel et de Milan next to Armani; and the Bvlgari), and Armani remains a popular choice.
ROOMS:
Each of Armani's 95 guestrooms and suites are designed by Re Giorgio (King Giorgio, as the Italian press calls him) with his signature contemporary and minimalistic style. The concept are almost similar with sister property in Dubai, but the size and proportion in Milan is more intimate, but slightly more fashionable.
Most rooms have its own circular "mini" vestibule on the entrance, which is a replica from the giant vestibule at the 235m2 Signature Suite at Armani Dubai. While Dubai has the space and looks dramatic due to its proportion, the vestibule in Milan seems rather forced. It is extremely dark and small, giving an almost claustrophobic feeling; and the enclosed circular shape ironically exudes a feeling of stepping into a shower stall. My Suite was surprisingly rather small thanks to the partitions that connects the living, bed and bathroom. In fact, I kept bumping the tables all the time. The living area is adorned with Armani Casa furniture, but sadly the bulky two-seater sofa is more of "Function follows Form" as it lacks the ergonomics. Similarly, the work / study area is not properly designed as the work desk is part of the main cabinet housing the minibars, and is very small and narrow, so when they force to put both the phone and the portable sound dock system in, there is hardly any space to put anything else. The plugs are not properly designed, -in fact, it is certainly not designed for Apple, so I ended up plugging them on the coffee machine!. The area is also so narrow that the chair keeps bumping on the rugs behind. Likewise, the wardrobe area is sandwiched between the Living and Bedroom chambers, so the layout is not properly designed for ergonomics.
On the positive note, the marble bathroom is bright, airy and well-planned. It comes with twin basins; bathtub; separate shower and WC stalls (complete with bidet); and a large window that allows plenty of sunlight during the day.
Armani has invested a lot for in-room technology, and each rooms has all the basics: electric curtain, LCD TV, mood lighting, electronic DND sign, and sophisticated TV entertainment system. The icing on the cake is the detection system for guests outside the room, which will be alerted by prompt message on the TV. While it is great, it falls short from what sister in Dubai can do: you can actually spy guests outside from a small dedicated screen on your TV. This is probably the only hotel in the world with such capability, not even The Peninsula has it.
Armani also wins big with in-room amenities. Internet access is free within the hotel, and so is the Mini-bar. Soft drinks, juices, waters and snacks are free, but alcohols are chargeable. Most of them are packed with Armani logo (including the 1L bottled water). As expected, bathroom amenities are by Armani Prive, and each are generously supplied in full size 150ml bottles. The welcome fruit basket was too good to be true that the fruits looked more like a wax replica. It was that perfect.
ROOM TO BOOK:
Open-plan Premier Room is the best room to choose as it appears more spacious than the other room layouts in the same category. As for suite, the Executive Suite is the best option outside the Signature and top suites as the size is generous, and each areas of the living, bed and bathrooms are well designed. For the ultimate in luxury, the two duplex Signature Suites at 203m2 comes with a choice of housing either a private Cinema Room with 100" LCD TV, or a Fitness room.
DINING:
There is only one restaurant inside the hotel, and it is Italian. Both the restaurant and the lounge are located on the Lobby level and are all interconnected. Il Ristorante serves haute Italian cuisine with honest, good food and simple presentation, cohesive to the overall Armani concept and style. Breakfast is also served here with semi buffet presentation. While the selection is limited, all food are of good quality and beautifully presented.
More food options are available downstairs at Armani / NOBU and Emporio Armani Cafe at the retail podium of Armani Via Manzoni 31.
LEISURE:
For leisure, head to the top floor of the hotel for Armani / Spa. The 1,150m2 space is a heaven and private sanctuary away from the chaotic Milan, complete with individual treatment rooms, multiple finnish sauna and steam baths cubicle (all with views); and a large unisex jacuzzi on the corner with beautiful view of the city. There is no swimming pool within the hotel, and many people are mixed up with the "large" jacuzzi.
X-FACTOR:
Armani-branded amenities; complimentary minibar; Armani in-room technology; Rooftop pool with Milan city view; and best location for shopaholics.
SERVICE:
Armani takes pride in creating a unique, custom made hotel experiences, including the introduction of the Lifestyle Managers, who are basically the point of contact for the guests, and handled almost everything from pre-arrival to check-in, concierge, and any other assistance during the stay. I have had prior experience with these esteem team members back in 2011 at the Armani Dubai and they were excellent, as their presence were very strong, and they did such an exceptional job running the extra mile for guests' satisfaction.
Unfortunately, I could not say the same with Milan. First of all, these Lifestyle Managers seemed to be absent during the stay; and secondly, the service at the hotel was extremely inconsistent. Even at the reception, I did not get a good vibe from some of the staffs as there seemed to be either an attitude problem or lack of experience. When escorted to the suite, I was so disappointed with the size and the two so-called "Lifestyle Managers" seemed to be doing nothing, instead of the team in Dubai who relentlessly run the extra mile not only to satisfy, but exceed guests' expectation. They have researched the guest profile well and perfectly understood what was expected and required. Milan pretty much did not care; and during check-out when I was asked for feedback and gave a hint of disappointment, not only the staff was surprised (they thought they were #1), they took it to the heart and became a bit defensive. That was when they haven't done their research well. Others might be impressed by Armani Milan, but for my case, not even the Four Seasons George V managed to impress me that much.
The ladies who served as receptionists to the Bar are the ones guests will see upon arriving at the sky Lobby from the lift; and they were the absolute eye sore. Not only they were cold to passing guests, they even pretended not to look. They should really be moved to the housekeeping and laundry department where they belong, as interaction with guests are minimal. Likewise, the service at the Emporio Armani Cafe (not part of the hotel) was so hostile that I left only two minutes after sitting there. The staffs were literally barking and pointing guests for empty seats. There was hardly any service, and I had an absolute better service at McDonald's and KFC (and plenty of genuine smile). After this ordeal, I refused to spend any more of my Euros at Armani (I intended to try all food outlets within the premise, including Armani Nobu and Emporio Armani Cafe), and instead headed down to the Michelin starred Trussardi alla Scala ten minutes away for a sumptuous lunch where I belong.
That said, the service at Armani / Ristorante was excellent. During the dinner, service was overall good; but during breakfast, it was exceptional. One of the staffs even ensured that they are here for the guests and will do anything for guest's satisfaction. This is the kind of service I expected from Armani. Sadly, this was all before the boycott.
VERDICT:
Armani Hotel Milano is a fashionable hotel at the most perfect location for shopping and the Fashion Week in Milan. Service was inconsistent; and there was a certain pressure working with Armani concept, and unfortunately it showed. The lifestyle managers proved to be a very demanding job that it even took a toll at Armani Dubai, as it experienced a very high staff turnovers during its first six months after opening. I have always rated Armani Hotels at the top of the hotel stratosphere, together with Bvlgari and Amanresorts; but Armani Milan is sadly under par from the high standard I experienced at Armani Dubai; so Bvlgari is definitely in a different league. All Bvlgari Hotels (Milan, London and Bali) has been very consistent in delivering the highest standard and the most personalized service. That said, Armani Milano still scored pretty high collectively, despite being marred by inconsistent service. Personally, the Bvlgari is my top choice in Milan.
PERSONAL RATING:
1. Room: 90
2. Bathroom: 95
3. Bed: 95
4. Service: 75
5. In-room Tech: 95
6. In-room Amenities: 100
7. Architecture & Design: 90
8. Food: 85
9. View: 75
10. Pool: N/A
11. Wellness: 90
12. Location: 95
13. Value: 95
Overall: 90.00
Compare with Milan's other top hotels:
My #1 ALL TIME FAVORITE HOTEL
LANDMARK MANDARIN ORIENTAL, HONG KONG: 95.38
ARMANI HOTEL MILANO
Via Manzoni 31, Milan
Hotel Manager: Lisa Signoretti
Executive Chef: Giandomenico Melandri
Architect (circa 1937): Enrico A. Griffini
Concept Designer: Giorgio Armani
Hotel Opening Date: 10 November 2011
Notable owners: Giorgio Armani and EMAAR Properties, Dubai
Total Rooms & Suites: 95 (including 23 Deluxe and 40 Premiere Rooms)
Total Suites: 32 Suites (including 20 Classic and 6 Executive Suites
Signature Suites: 110m2 Ambassador Suite; and 203m2 Signature Suite)
Top Suites: Milano Suite and Presidential Suite (200m2)
Bathroom Amenities: Armani Prive
Restaurants: Armani / Ristorante: Italian Fine Dining
Bars and Lounges: Armani / Lounge
Meeting & Banquets: 52m2 Meeting Room (50 guests), and 2 Boardrooms at 28m2 (up to 12 guests)
Health & Leisure: 24 hours gym & Armani / Spa with heated plunge pool, finnish sauna, steam bath and ice cascade
milan.armanihotels.com
Check out ARMANI HOTEL DUBAI
Armani Hotel Milano at Via Manzoni 31
© yohanes.budiyanto, 2014
HISTORY
Armani Hotel Milan is the brainchild of one of the world's most prominent living designers of our time, Giorgio Armani. As the owner of one of the most profitable global fashion empires in the world, Armani is one true visionary and trend-setter. He is among the few Italian designers that put Milan on the global fashion map. Since the debut in 1975, the Armani empire has expanded and diversified from fashion to food (pioneered with Emporio Armani Cafe), beauty (Beauty and fragrance range in collaboration with L'oreal), furniture / home furnishings (Armani Casa), flower (Armani Fiori), confectionary (Armani Dolci), and now luxury hotels.
The very first Armani Hotel opened on 27th April 2010 in Dubai within the tallest structure in the world at 828m, the Burj Khalifa. It was probably a surprising move for some that Armani's debut hotel was outside his native hometown of Milan, -unlike the Bvlgari with its eponymous Bvlgari Hotel Milano back in May 2004; but as the concept is a joint venture with one of the world's leading property developers, EMAAR, so it is befitting that the first hotel opened within the group's flagship property in Dubai.
Armani Hotel Milano was scheduled to open not long after Dubai; but due to series of delays, the hotel finally opened on 10th November 2011 atop Armani's flagship building on Via Manzoni 31. The 7 storey building circa 1937 is a landmark in the area, and it is interesting to note that the original architect (Enrico Griffini) designed the building to shape like the word "A" from above (check it out on Goggle Map), -coincidentally fits Armani's initial.
LOCATION
Roberto Cavalli may have dubbed the hotel building a psychiatric hospital; but no one can deny its strategic location at the apex of Milan's Quadrilatero della Mode, the Via Monte Napoleone fashion district, -Milan's answer to Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré in Paris. The area surrounding Via Monte Napoleone, Sant' Andrea, Gesu, Borgospesso, Santo Spirito and della Spiga is home to the flagship presence of almost all of Italian and International luxury fashion brands, including Bvlgari, Bottega Veneta, Gucci, Prada, Salvatore Ferragamo, Ermenegildo Zegna, Versace, Fendi, Etro, Missoni, Hermes, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Valentino, St. Laurent, Chanel and Acqua di Parma to name just a few. This is the ultimate destination for shopaholics, and with the prices of luxury goods here considerably lower than Asia, it is an absolute crime to go home empty handed. It comes at no surprise that during Milan's Fashion Week, top hotels around the area are full sold out (including Four Seasons at Via Gesu; Grand Hotel et de Milan next to Armani; and the Bvlgari), and Armani remains a popular choice.
ROOMS:
Each of Armani's 95 guestrooms and suites are designed by Re Giorgio (King Giorgio, as the Italian press calls him) with his signature contemporary and minimalistic style. The concept are almost similar with sister property in Dubai, but the size and proportion in Milan is more intimate, but slightly more fashionable.
Most rooms have its own circular "mini" vestibule on the entrance, which is a replica from the giant vestibule at the 235m2 Signature Suite at Armani Dubai. While Dubai has the space and looks dramatic due to its proportion, the vestibule in Milan seems rather forced. It is extremely dark and small, giving an almost claustrophobic feeling; and the enclosed circular shape ironically exudes a feeling of stepping into a shower stall. My Suite was surprisingly rather small thanks to the partitions that connects the living, bed and bathroom. In fact, I kept bumping the tables all the time. The living area is adorned with Armani Casa furniture, but sadly the bulky two-seater sofa is more of "Function follows Form" as it lacks the ergonomics. Similarly, the work / study area is not properly designed as the work desk is part of the main cabinet housing the minibars, and is very small and narrow, so when they force to put both the phone and the portable sound dock system in, there is hardly any space to put anything else. The plugs are not properly designed, -in fact, it is certainly not designed for Apple, so I ended up plugging them on the coffee machine!. The area is also so narrow that the chair keeps bumping on the rugs behind. Likewise, the wardrobe area is sandwiched between the Living and Bedroom chambers, so the layout is not properly designed for ergonomics.
On the positive note, the marble bathroom is bright, airy and well-planned. It comes with twin basins; bathtub; separate shower and WC stalls (complete with bidet); and a large window that allows plenty of sunlight during the day.
Armani has invested a lot for in-room technology, and each rooms has all the basics: electric curtain, LCD TV, mood lighting, electronic DND sign, and sophisticated TV entertainment system. The icing on the cake is the detection system for guests outside the room, which will be alerted by prompt message on the TV. While it is great, it falls short from what sister in Dubai can do: you can actually spy guests outside from a small dedicated screen on your TV. This is probably the only hotel in the world with such capability, not even The Peninsula has it.
Armani also wins big with in-room amenities. Internet access is free within the hotel, and so is the Mini-bar. Soft drinks, juices, waters and snacks are free, but alcohols are chargeable. Most of them are packed with Armani logo (including the 1L bottled water). As expected, bathroom amenities are by Armani Prive, and each are generously supplied in full size 150ml bottles. The welcome fruit basket was too good to be true that the fruits looked more like a wax replica. It was that perfect.
ROOM TO BOOK:
Open-plan Premier Room is the best room to choose as it appears more spacious than the other room layouts in the same category. As for suite, the Executive Suite is the best option outside the Signature and top suites as the size is generous, and each areas of the living, bed and bathrooms are well designed. For the ultimate in luxury, the two duplex Signature Suites at 203m2 comes with a choice of housing either a private Cinema Room with 100" LCD TV, or a Fitness room.
DINING:
There is only one restaurant inside the hotel, and it is Italian. Both the restaurant and the lounge are located on the Lobby level and are all interconnected. Il Ristorante serves haute Italian cuisine with honest, good food and simple presentation, cohesive to the overall Armani concept and style. Breakfast is also served here with semi buffet presentation. While the selection is limited, all food are of good quality and beautifully presented.
More food options are available downstairs at Armani / NOBU and Emporio Armani Cafe at the retail podium of Armani Via Manzoni 31.
LEISURE:
For leisure, head to the top floor of the hotel for Armani / Spa. The 1,150m2 space is a heaven and private sanctuary away from the chaotic Milan, complete with individual treatment rooms, multiple finnish sauna and steam baths cubicle (all with views); and a large unisex jacuzzi on the corner with beautiful view of the city. There is no swimming pool within the hotel, and many people are mixed up with the "large" jacuzzi.
X-FACTOR:
Armani-branded amenities; complimentary minibar; Armani in-room technology; Rooftop pool with Milan city view; and best location for shopaholics.
SERVICE:
Armani takes pride in creating a unique, custom made hotel experiences, including the introduction of the Lifestyle Managers, who are basically the point of contact for the guests, and handled almost everything from pre-arrival to check-in, concierge, and any other assistance during the stay. I have had prior experience with these esteem team members back in 2011 at the Armani Dubai and they were excellent, as their presence were very strong, and they did such an exceptional job running the extra mile for guests' satisfaction.
Unfortunately, I could not say the same with Milan. First of all, these Lifestyle Managers seemed to be absent during the stay; and secondly, the service at the hotel was extremely inconsistent. Even at the reception, I did not get a good vibe from some of the staffs as there seemed to be either an attitude problem or lack of experience. When escorted to the suite, I was so disappointed with the size and the two so-called "Lifestyle Managers" seemed to be doing nothing, instead of the team in Dubai who relentlessly run the extra mile not only to satisfy, but exceed guests' expectation. They have researched the guest profile well and perfectly understood what was expected and required. Milan pretty much did not care; and during check-out when I was asked for feedback and gave a hint of disappointment, not only the staff was surprised (they thought they were #1), they took it to the heart and became a bit defensive. That was when they haven't done their research well. Others might be impressed by Armani Milan, but for my case, not even the Four Seasons George V managed to impress me that much.
The ladies who served as receptionists to the Bar are the ones guests will see upon arriving at the sky Lobby from the lift; and they were the absolute eye sore. Not only they were cold to passing guests, they even pretended not to look. They should really be moved to the housekeeping and laundry department where they belong, as interaction with guests are minimal. Likewise, the service at the Emporio Armani Cafe (not part of the hotel) was so hostile that I left only two minutes after sitting there. The staffs were literally barking and pointing guests for empty seats. There was hardly any service, and I had an absolute better service at McDonald's and KFC (and plenty of genuine smile). After this ordeal, I refused to spend any more of my Euros at Armani (I intended to try all food outlets within the premise, including Armani Nobu and Emporio Armani Cafe), and instead headed down to the Michelin starred Trussardi alla Scala ten minutes away for a sumptuous lunch where I belong.
That said, the service at Armani / Ristorante was excellent. During the dinner, service was overall good; but during breakfast, it was exceptional. One of the staffs even ensured that they are here for the guests and will do anything for guest's satisfaction. This is the kind of service I expected from Armani. Sadly, this was all before the boycott.
VERDICT:
Armani Hotel Milano is a fashionable hotel at the most perfect location for shopping and the Fashion Week in Milan. Service was inconsistent; and there was a certain pressure working with Armani concept, and unfortunately it showed. The lifestyle managers proved to be a very demanding job that it even took a toll at Armani Dubai, as it experienced a very high staff turnovers during its first six months after opening. I have always rated Armani Hotels at the top of the hotel stratosphere, together with Bvlgari and Amanresorts; but Armani Milan is sadly under par from the high standard I experienced at Armani Dubai; so Bvlgari is definitely in a different league. All Bvlgari Hotels (Milan, London and Bali) has been very consistent in delivering the highest standard and the most personalized service. That said, Armani Milano still scored pretty high collectively, despite being marred by inconsistent service. Personally, the Bvlgari is my top choice in Milan.
PERSONAL RATING:
1. Room: 90
2. Bathroom: 95
3. Bed: 95
4. Service: 75
5. In-room Tech: 95
6. In-room Amenities: 100
7. Architecture & Design: 90
8. Food: 85
9. View: 75
10. Pool: N/A
11. Wellness: 90
12. Location: 95
13. Value: 95
Overall: 90.00
Compare with Milan's other top hotels:
My #1 ALL TIME FAVORITE HOTEL
LANDMARK MANDARIN ORIENTAL, HONG KONG: 95.38
ARMANI HOTEL MILANO
Via Manzoni 31, Milan
Hotel Manager: Lisa Signoretti
Executive Chef: Giandomenico Melandri
Architect (circa 1937): Enrico A. Griffini
Concept Designer: Giorgio Armani
Hotel Opening Date: 10 November 2011
Notable owners: Giorgio Armani and EMAAR Properties, Dubai
Total Rooms & Suites: 95 (including 23 Deluxe and 40 Premiere Rooms)
Total Suites: 32 Suites (including 20 Classic and 6 Executive Suites
Signature Suites: 110m2 Ambassador Suite; and 203m2 Signature Suite)
Top Suites: Milano Suite and Presidential Suite (200m2)
Bathroom Amenities: Armani Prive
Restaurants: Armani / Ristorante: Italian Fine Dining
Bars and Lounges: Armani / Lounge
Meeting & Banquets: 52m2 Meeting Room (50 guests), and 2 Boardrooms at 28m2 (up to 12 guests)
Health & Leisure: 24 hours gym & Armani / Spa with heated plunge pool, finnish sauna, steam bath and ice cascade
milan.armanihotels.com
Check out ARMANI HOTEL DUBAI