Bronzetto X Valentina De Santis

Valentina De Santis represents the third generation of a family that, for over fifty years, has embodied excellence in hospitality on Lake Como. As CEO of META S.p.A., she now leads a group of iconic properties — Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Passalacqua and Sheraton Lake Como — internationally acclaimed yet defined by a distinctive character: an authentic form of hospitality shaped by heart, humanity and a strong family spirit.

A remarkable example is Passalacqua, a historic 18th-century villa overlooking Lake Como, restored with deep respect for its original identity to offer a unique stay experience immersed in the purest Italian style. For the interior project, Valentina De Santis brought together renowned names in Italian design alongside a number of historic Italian artisans.

Among them is Il Bronzetto, which contributed with several bespoke creations: from a large custom chandelier, two meters in diameter and decorated with hundreds of small gilded oak leaves — requiring three months of work — to functional objects and details designed specifically for the villa’s spaces.

For Valentina De Santis, the relationship with craftsmanship is an essential part of her vision of hospitality: 

“Il Bronzetto is a fundamental partner for us in every project, making each one unique and a source of inspiration. It lies at the heart of our hospitality. From the very beginning, a natural connection was created with Francesca and Simone, built on shared values: family tradition, a love for beauty, attention to detail and a constant pursuit of excellence.
The dedication they have shown throughout this journey together is the most authentic expression of our shared passion for craftsmanship.”

A collaboration that perfectly reflects what makes the De Santis vision of hospitality unique: the ability to transform every detail into an experience of beauty and authenticity.



When details become part of the project

This becomes especially clear in completed interiors.

At Villa Gli Arcipressi, in the hills of Florence, custom-made brass handles and knobs become part of a shared material language between architecture, furnishings and decoration.

At Villa La Marchesina, in Puglia, bespoke brass handles inspired by local fruits and plants connect craftsmanship, territory and contemporary design.

In the projects by Archicona Studio, instead, knobs and handles become tools for personalisation. Collections such as Oceano and Chalet introduce forms inspired by the marine world and the forest, giving each interior a distinctive identity.

Three different languages, one shared principle: the handle is not simply added at the end of the project. It is part of it.

Design and personalisation

With over 100 models of handles and knobs, Bronzetto offers shapes and inspirations suitable for very different kitchen styles, from essential geometries to more organic and decorative forms.

The finish also plays an important role, allowing each detail to create contrast, blend with the surrounding materials or stand out as a precious accent.

And when required, dimensions, proportions and details can be developed to measure.

Because choosing a handle means choosing much more than a function.

It means defining the relationship between hand, material and space.

After all, the character of a kitchen can also be recognised in the way it opens.