A 13th-century Italian estate has become the latest heritage site to benefit from Hochiki Europe’s hybrid fire detection technology. The Villa San Carlo, near Vicenza, has been carefully restored and transformed into a spiritual retreat and hotel, with a modern fire safety system installed that protects both its guests and its centuries-old architecture.
Ciemme Electronic srl, the company behind the installation, faced the dual challenge of maintaining the villa’s aesthetic integrity while delivering robust fire protection. Their solution was a hybrid system built around Hochiki’s Latitude control panel, combining hardwired ESP devices with the Ekho wireless range to provide full coverage without the need for intrusive cabling.
“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.”
The Villa San Carlo complex includes restored wings, a chapel, colonnades and several outbuildings, all of which required tailored fire detection solutions. Hochiki’s Latitude panel allowed full system integration, providing advanced monitoring and ease of operation for staff, while remaining virtually invisible to guests.
“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 adds.
Hochiki’s distribution partner, An.Bo Technology, provided additional support throughout the project, ensuring a seamless rollout and long-term reliability. “We have been working with Hochiki for a long time, and our customers appreciate the versatility and reliability of these products,” says 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.”
The project highlights how modern fire detection systems can meet the unique demands of the hospitality sector, particularly in buildings of historical or architectural significance. By combining wired and wireless technologies, Hochiki has enabled hotels like Villa San Carlo to uphold stringent safety standards without compromising the character of their surroundings.