Mrs. Antonella Fratini, owner of the WTB Hotels group, embarked on her career in the hospitality industry driven by a passion that began in her childhood. Growing up, she was captivated by the world of hospitality and hotel management while observing her aunt, who ran a hotel in Montecatini, a town near Florence. This world, made up of details, relationships, and guest care, fascinated her so much that she later developed the desire to follow in her aunt’s footsteps.

Before starting her entrepreneurial career, Antonella had the opportunity to broaden her perspective through numerous travel experiences and extended stays abroad, including in London and the French Riviera. This journey allowed her to immerse herself in new cultures, engage with different realities, and refine a sophisticated and international approach. In addition to contributing to her personal growth, it provided her with a deeper understanding of travelers’ needs and the importance of those details that make a stay truly special. With this awareness, in 2004, she began her journey in the hospitality sector, opening the Hotel Santa Maria Novella in Florence — the first in a series of “casa hotels” located in the historic centers of Italy’s most artistic cities.

Over the years, she has built a collection of hotels that, despite having different personalities and styles, share a common thread: a commitment to quality, elegance, and guest care. Each property reflects her eye for design and her refined aesthetic sensibility, elements that make all the difference in transforming a space into a unique and welcoming place.

Antonella chose to focus on “casa hotels” in fantastic locations, maintaining an intimate and refined character, favoring warm and sophisticated atmospheres over large, impersonal spaces. Her passion for architecture and interior design is evident in the way each hotel harmoniously blends beauty, art, and tradition with a touch of modernity. This distinctive style stems from her deep connection to Florentine craftsmanship, a value she sought to infuse into every aspect of her properties. For this reason, she decided to collaborate with local artisans — the same ones she had worked with for her own home — rather than large contract companies. Every piece of furniture tells a story and carries a piece of Florence, making each hotel an authentic space where guests can experience true Italian hospitality.

Between the ages of 38 and 40, Antonella experienced a period of significant personal and professional growth, feeling at the height of her energy and confidence. It was during this time that she developed the ambition to create something exclusive, something that fully represented her and had the power to captivate guests, leaving a lasting impression.

At the heart of her success lies profound humility. Antonella had the wisdom and good fortune to surround herself with experienced professionals who guided her through the early stages of her career. In both financial management and internal organization, she relied on two key figures who, together with her, helped shape WTB Hotels into a renowned brand. Her continuous drive for growth allowed her to establish a solid and respected presence in the industry.

Today, Mrs. Fratini personally oversees every detail of her properties, maintaining an active presence in the daily operations of each hotel. This direct involvement reflects her dedication and passion for the world of hospitality.

Every space wears her signature, showcasing her refined taste and vision for guest experiences. Her leadership as a woman has brought a unique sensitivity to the creation of spaces that are not only aesthetically elegant but also designed to offer unforgettable experiences.

Attention to detail, a focus on guest well-being, and a passion for beauty make her proeprties a benchmark of excellence in hospitality, where every stay becomes a cherished memory. Her leadership journey in the industry continues with the same passion and meticulousness that have defined her from the very beginning. In May 2022, the collection expanded with the opening of Hotel L’Orologio Roma, the latest addition to the WTB Hotels group.