Discover how a hybrid fire safety system preserved the historic elegance of a 13th-century hotel retreat.
Villa San Carlo, a 13th-century estate turned spiritual retreat near Vicenza, Italy, is the latest hospitality venue to benefit from a discreet, high-performance fire detection solution from Hochiki Europe. This case study showcases how a modern fire alarm system for hotels can be implemented without compromising sensitive architectural features, making it ideal for hotel renovations and heritage buildings.
To meet both aesthetic and safety requirements, fire detection installers Ciemme Electronic srl delivered a hybrid system using Hochiki’s Latitude control panel. Hardwired ESP devices were installed where cabling was feasible, while the Ekho wireless range was used throughout protected zones, ensuring a seamless blend of performance and preservation.
Why Fire Safety in Heritage Hotels Requires a Hybrid Approach
The entire complex, including restored wings, a chapel, colonnades and outbuildings, required coverage. Hochiki’s Latitude panel enabled full integration, providing advanced monitoring while maintaining the visual and structural integrity of the villa.
“We were asked to respect every architectural detail while ensuring complete fire protection,” explains Matteo Cecchin of Ciemme Electronic srl. “After a careful study of the various environments and the challenges related to system design and installation, we chose the flexibility and performance of Hochiki systems; the wireless devices were particularly important for preserving the interiors: this system represents a perfect balance between safety and heritage preservation.”
Flexible Fire Safety for Hotels and Leisure Venues
With the hybrid approach, engineers overcame complex installation constraints while delivering full coverage across all building types on site. The system offers reliability and ease of use for on-site staff.
“Hochiki’s Latitude system, combined with ESP devices and the Ekho wireless range, gave us exactly what we needed: smooth installation, reliable performance, and the ability to maintain the character of the Villa,” Cecchin continues.
Distribution Support for Hotel Fire Alarm Installations
Hochiki’s long-standing distribution partner, An.Bo Technology, supported the project from start to finish, ensuring seamless deployment and system performance.
“We have been working with Hochiki for a long time, and our customers appreciate the versatility and reliability of these products,” said Antonio Bozzato, owner of An.Bo Technology. “The hybrid wireless system, in particular, is proving to be perfect for many applications, particularly in this case with the historical site of Villa San Carlo hotel.”
Specifying Fire Detection Systems for Hotels
This case study demonstrates how Hochiki’s wireless and hardwired fire alarm systems can be specified in hotel projects that demand architectural sensitivity. From boutique renovations to large-scale leisure facilities, Hochiki solutions support fire safety without visual compromise.
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About the Author
Dave Staddon - Publisher
Co-Founder of MDM Publishing Ltd. He has worked in fire publishing for close to 30 years. The company's portfolio includes International Fire Protection, International Fire Fighter, Asia Pacific Fire, Gulf Fire & UK Fire.
