Florence’s contemporary hostel where flexibility, atmosphere and colour coexist

Debuting in Rome 20 years ago, YellowSquare offers a contemporary take on the hostel, creating a hub of activity where both tourists and locals can meet and connect. Developed by InvestiRE SGR, the hostel opened to the public in April 2022, close to the Fortezza da Basso. 

Converted from a 1930s building, the project sleeps 250, is distributed in dorms of four and eight beds, and includes 12 private rooms. The brand’s approach centres around the values of sharing, evident both in the design of the bar, the restaurant and the shared kitchen available to guests and in the common spaces, guided by exchange and informal gatherings.

The multifunctional and inclusive space aims to be a catalyst for connection, offering activities such as cooking lessons and sunset yoga. The project’s pool and sun terrace on the top floor provides views across the Florence skyline.

The building was originally built in 1935 as a provincial clinic for tuberculosis patients, before becoming the offices of the local health authority in the 80s. In 2005 it was put up for auction and then fell into a state of disrepair. Consisting of two main blocks, where the first is laid out over six levels and the second is on a single above ground level. The redevelopment retains the key structural elements typical of rationalist architecture while updating the layout through modern interventions designed to respect the building’s identity and context. 

Travertine stone was used for the doorway, stairs, large plinth and to frame the profiles of the large facade openings. The monolithic character of the exterior structure and the large doorway of the ivory white main facade, accessed by the wide staircase, result in a minimal and elegant effect. 

The staircase leads to the hall, with an adjoining dining area and bar/restaurant with a kitchen. The ground floor houses a space fitted out as a guest kitchen and one reserved for cooking lessons, as well as the service areas for the restaurant and some guest rooms. A club area was created in the basement, which also houses the garage, utility rooms and storage and service spaces. The rooms, with private facilities, occupy the entire first and second floors. 

The food and beverage offering is split over three levels, like the periods of the day, from Bargiù in the basement offering underground culture and evening cocktails, to Barmezzo used during the daytime, and Barsù on the rooftop with its panoramic views over Florence.

Vibrant colours in bright shades of yellow and orange and cooler tones of green and blue play a key role in the project and convey a sense of welcoming energy. Passageways are enveloped with a textured sound-absorbing fibre mounted on the ceilings. Geometric shapes and the use of colour on walls and floors define playful and open interiors, creating a youthful space.