Description Wind & Water: Milano

Renovated a few years ago, this smart apartment has been carefully designed according to the principles of the Chinese philosophy, feng shui. This gives it a certain character, and sense of structure, and the host, Grazia, is very happy to take you through the thought process behind the design. Inside, you'll find a sociable, open-plan living space with period features – we're talking tall ceilings, high windows and a fireplace – along with modern built-in storage and a kitchen area. The dining table is a real statement, made for long, lazy meals and sitting up chatting over a bottle of red. The bedrooms are private and unique, and it's ideal for a couple of friends sharing. Here you'll be a five-minute walk from the Metro station, so all of central Milan is at your fingertips.

Home truths:
*As the apartment's on the lower ground floor, there isn't a lot of natural light
*Once through the front door, you immediately have to go down a flight of 19 steps
*If you're travelling with small children, there's a cot and high chair available