Galleria Vichi, Art Nouveau palazzo in Borgo Ognissanti, Florence, Italy.

Galleria Vichi is a narrow Art Nouveau palazzo on Borgo Ognissanti, built by Giovanni Michelazzi for Argia Marinai nei Vichi. Its facade mixes artificial stone imitating travertine, steel and glass, with a central glass window on each floor framed by curved whip-lash lines and horizontal bands. Eagles holding lamps decorate the commercial lower floors, while two dragons crown the projecting eaves above the residential upper floors.

Architect Giovanni Michelazzi completed construction in 1911 and later set up his studio inside the building from 1913 to 1914. The project emerged during a period when Italian cities were adopting modern European architectural styles.

The ground floor and first floor, still used for commerce, carry richer ornament than the three residential floors above: eagles holding the lamps, garlands, masks and dragons at the roofline. The artificial stone imitating travertine was made by the Impresa Toscana Pietre Artificiali of Florence.

The building sits at Via Ognissanti 26 near Ognissanti church and is easily accessible by public transportation from the city center. You can view the exterior facade from the street and get a clear look at the decorative details.

Michelazzi used the building as a working studio and atelier, making it a place where ideas were tested and designs took shape. This connection between creative thinking and practical application gives the structure a functional dimension beyond its ornamental beauty.