Inspired by Japan’s revered listening rooms – exclusive spaces where vinyl records are appreciated with quiet reverence – the groundbreaking Listening Suite at Il Sereno elevates the art of listening…
New this season at Il Sereno, the Listening Suite has been conceived under the artistic direction of Patricia Urquiola, reflecting a significant investment, while at the same time, setting a new global benchmark for immersive hospitality.
Image credit: Il Sereno Lake Como
Handcrafted soundproof walls, made from locally sourced acoustic fabrics, ensure flawless sound quality, while bespoke walnut furnishings create an inviting, sophisticated atmosphere. At its heart lies a state-of-the-art sound system featuring audio equipment including vacuum tube amplifiers, a refurbished reel-to-reel players and speakers made from the same wood as the rest of the hotel (Noce Canaletto) weighing over 200 kg – delivering sounds with unmatched purity and depth. A curated collection of vintage vinyl records, generously donated by Il Sereno’s owner and lifelong music aficionado Luis Contreras, allows guests to curate their own soundtracks.
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- Image credit: Il Sereno Lake Como
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- Image credit: Il Sereno Lake Como
With inspiring views across the lake and private access to the water, the Listening Suite serves as a private music club where guests can savour bespoke cocktails or dine while immersed in flawless sound. Available for an overnight stay or as an exclusive venue for private dining or events, it offers a rare and intimate experience. The space was conceived by Angelica and Luis Contreras to have different functions, either lounging on the floor listening and playing music, enjoying a meal in the new massive stone-table in front of the speakers, or sharing the almost 200 square metres of the suite with friends and family.
Image credit: Il Sereno Lake Como
Lake Como has long inspired creative minds, from Manzoni and Stendhal to Liszt and Hesse. In the 1830s, Franz Liszt lived on the lake with his lover, Countess Marie d’Agoult, composing works that captured its beauty and melancholy—reflected in Années de Pèlerinage (Years of Pilgrimage). Today, the lake continues to inspire icons like Beyoncé, Miley Cyrus, and Bruno Mars (all former Sereno guests). The Listening Suite honours this legacy, blending Japanese listening culture with Italian elegance for a truly unique experience and it this the world’s first in its kind.
Who is Sereno Hotels?
Founded by Luis and Angelica Contreras, Sereno Hotels reflects their vision of redefining luxury through a harmonious blend of contemporary design, impeccable service, and a deep connection to the natural beauty of each location. Their passion for design is evident in every detail – from the architecture and interiors to the furnishings – creating spaces that are both visually stunning and deeply comfortable.
Main image credit: Il Sereno Lake Como
