This mix is not new to the rest of the world; just think of cities like New York, Paris or London, which have long been making daring blends between high tech and classical styles that were unthinkable in Italy until recently. Unexpectedly the contrast between the past and the cutting edge has been particularly enticing for architects. Many reception facilities have experimented with new ideas often resulting in added glamour.

There are diverse, interesting examples of this style in the Capital. Some hotels have partially stepped out-of-line with classical design and are hosting exhibitions by contemporary artists with avant-garde designs alongside traditional structures. Classical spaces which have been transformed into true and proper experimental artistic laboratories often bear the signature of the most renowned architects of our age.

Hence, tourists may happen to see a hotel in the historic centre which resembles a ship or mysterious black box. Similarly, there are hotels which act as lounge bars and contemporary art galleries or modern installations which blend in well with the period façades and surrounding monuments.