Now open, The Carlton brings a soulful expression of design, dining and wellness to the heart of Milan’s Quadrilatero della Moda. We sat down with Francesco Roccato, Managing Director of Northern Italy and the hotel’s General Manager, to explore what sets the hotel apart.
From its distinctive character to the intuitive service at its heart, Francesco offers valuable insight for travel partners looking to introduce clients to the city’s most stylish address — an experience defined by warmth, elegance and a strong sense of place.
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''Elegance, discretion and sophistication are the main ingredients that we wish to be known for''
The Carlton is a major milestone for the brand. How would you describe the vision behind the hotel and what makes it a distinctive addition to the portfolio?
The vision was shaped by the ongoing evolution of Rocco Forte Hotels as a whole, where the classic-contemporary design of Lady Olga Polizzi, Paolo Moschino and Philip Vergeylen is the main distinctive characteristic. The Carlton is the evolution of this bold vision into the city.
We chose a hotel that was iconic and, thanks to an attentive refurbishment, we are transforming it into the next must-go destination for the international crowd. I also think it will intrigue the Milanese clientele through our wonderful restaurants and bar, with authentic, seasonal dishes designed by Fulvio Pierangelini, and the new Irene Forte Spa, with its inspired focus on wellness.
What does this project represent to you?
It is the continuation of a project started seven years ago, when we successfully opened Hotel de la Ville and Rocco Forte House in Rome, and then Rocco Forte House Milan last year. The hotel represents the fourth property in the Northern Italian Region, so I feel proud and enthusiastic of having built successful teams in these fine establishments.
Milan is a prime destination, and a dynamic market where many of the big players in hospitality are already present. However, I know we will enrich the city's offer with our personal flair, design and style: elegance, discretion and sophistication are the main ingredients that we wish to be known for.
I feel such pride in the talented team, made up of different cultures and nationalities, working closely together to make it magical. Personally, I am discovering a beautiful city which is a perfect blend of fashion, art, architecture and international flavours. It feels very accommodating, like being a citizen of the world.
Milan is a city known for creativity, design, and excellence. How do you see those qualities reflected in the hotel?
The high standards of such a vibrant and stylish city are reflected in our commitment to creating an exceptional product in both design and materials. This elevated aesthetic aligns naturally with the level of service we take great pride in delivering. Together, these elements define our approach to excellence, across each and every hotel. A recent example is the forthcoming recognition of Hotel de la Ville as one of the 2025 Iconic Hotels by Forbes Travel Guide, achieved just six and a half years after its opening.
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“The space is designed to adapt to the person entering it, shaped by their presence and movements.”
You’ve led several Rocco Forte properties in Northern Italy. How has that experience shaped your approach to this opening?
It is a privilege to work in properties located in the art cities of Rome, Florence and Milan, and these acclaimed and distinguished environments have definitely shaped my vision and strategy in building this new iconic hotel. I like to think of Milan as a discreet and subtly elegant woman, keen on culture and aesthetic - a refined beauty to discover.
What kind of atmosphere and service style do you want guests to feel the moment they walk through the doors?
Guests should feel an atmosphere that is both sophisticated and comfortable — a true sense of place where elegance comes naturally and without artifice. The space is designed to adapt to the person entering it, shaped by their presence and movements. Our role is to guide each guest towards the experience they are seeking. We are sensitive enough to read the guest and give them exactly what they are expecting without having to ask for it.
What excites you most about leading Rocco Forte Hotels’ newest opening?
Entering a city like Milan, with such interest surrounding this opening, makes me feel both excited and privileged to lead such an ambitious project. I am deeply grateful to Sir Rocco Forte for entrusting me with this role. I am sure that with the strong team we have built, we will achieve remarkable things together.
For further information or to explore The Carlton further, your Rocco Forte hotels sales representative will be delighted to assist.
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