The historic Bauer Hotel in Venice, Italy is set for a new future as a Rosewood Hotel, its new owner has confirmed.
The news will come as a relief to those involved with the project, following delays due to issues faced by the property’s previous owner that delayed progress and cast doubt over the future path for the Bauer. Now, investor Mohari Hospitality, supported by partner Omnam Investment Group, has confirmed it will work with Rosewood on the landmark’s future.
Reviving a treasured landmark
The Bauer is considered one of the architectural treasures of the city of canals, featuring an architectural style of Venetian medieval mannerism from the late 19th century. Located on the city’s Grand Canal, it is just a few paces away from the Piazza San Marco.
“Our vision at Mohari is to establish a portfolio of unparalleled luxury hospitality destinations defined by iconic locations, heritage value, and exceptional guest experiences. The legendary Bauer Hotel fits perfectly within our vision,” said Mark Scheinberg, founder and principal of Mohari Hospitality. “We are proud to have the opportunity to preserve and elevate this extraordinary jewel of a property, honouring its legacy while transforming it to become one of Europe’s most distinguished hotels.”
More than a luxury hotel brand and operator, Rosewood will be deeply involved in developing the new, reimagined Bauer. The hotel will have 110 rooms, two restaurants and will feature a rooftop terrace bar and wellness centre with outdoor pool.
The hotel will join Mohari’s blossoming portfolio of luxury European hotels. These include investment in the Four Seasons Madrid, and a luxury Paris hotel project under way in partnership with musician Pharrell Williams.
In 2020, the Bauer was acquired by Austrian real estate group Signa, which closed the property in 2022 with plans for a major renovation. However, by 2024 the Signa business was suffering from financial problems, leading to moves to sell the asset. German business Schoeller Group was lined up to buy the Bauer, but ultimately King Street Capital Management, a lender to Signa, acquired the property before selling it to Mohari and Omnam. The buyers reportedly paid EUR309m for the property, outbidding other potential buyers including billionaire Bernard Arnault, head of the LVMH luxury brand group.
Luxury choices
Visitors seeking a luxury hotel room in Venice will have other choices alongside the Rosewood. In 2025, Four Seasons will open the refurbished Hotel Danieli, with the historic central property extensively renovated to provide 200 rooms and extensive luxury amenities. Also opening will be the Hotel Gabrielli which, following upgrade works, will be operated by Starhotels. A makeover has reduced the number of rooms from 120 to 73 much more capacious suites, with a private terrace for the property’s presidential suite.
Following this, 2026 will see the opening of The Langham Venice. This hotel will be on the island of Murano, reusing the historic former Casino Mocenigo. Fronting the lagoon, the hotel will feature restored buildings wrapping round a central courtyard.
