EyeItalia

Ra-Ma is a wonderland of recovered Italian tiles, stone, fireplaces, staircases, columns, statuary and antiques. Its expansive size invites the visitor to leisurely stroll through its thousands of wares, providing plenty of time to muse where that 17th century mantelpiece or spiral staircase might fit into one’s palazzo back home.

If you’re in the market for authentic handmade Italian tiles, either new or vintage; luxury kitchen, bath and home furnishings, high-tail it to this store in the Santo Spirito district. Allow an extra hour or two (or three), however, as you’ll find it hard to tear yourself away from this exquisite store.

Located just inside the Porta Romana, Il Bronzetto has been creating lamps and lighting of every kind in its own workshop since 1963. Leaning toward classical Italian reproductions, their designs range from the ornate (for the most rarefied palazzi) to the rustic (perfect for a casa colonica). Simone, the family’s second generation craftsman, and his delightful mother give all a warm welcome in their small but filled-to-the-gills showroom.