We stayed at Casa Howard overnight at the end of a trip visiting friends outside of Rome during the May Bank Holiday.
My sister had recommended it to me, so I checked the ratings on Trip Advisor, and despite some slight concerns booked directly by email.
I didn't need to be concerned. The owner couldn't have been more helpful, we were trying to stay at a really busy time, and she was brilliant in sorting out a room for me, my very tall husband (needs a big bed) and our 9 year old son.
When we arrived, the staff were brilliant. I had already printed out a load of really good hints and tips for visiting, including the excellent restaurant guide from their website, (don't get that at a standard hotel!) and so armed with all of this information plus a free map, we set off..
Several tired hours later we got back to find a wonderful oasis of calm dead in the centre of vibrant Rome, and best of all (according to our son) there is a FANTASTIC ice cream parlour just a few doors away, where several flavours were sampled at once on the biggest cone I've ever seen, pre bed time.
Last mention must go to the staff there. They really couldn't have been more helpful, kind, charming and wonderful. I would highly recommend Casa Howard if you are looking for a more relaxing but still top quality way of enjoying Rome than the usual 5 star hotel. It really was like coming home after a hard day being a tourist, well worth it.

Having never been to Rome before was a bit nervous about picking a perfect hotel for a romantic long weekend.. (and nervous about the prices!) Got a recommendation from my favourite travel mag - olive, and loved it. Stayed in the pink room (couldnt resist!) at Casa Howard, which was lovely and quirky, full of personal touches, felt so far removed from a bland soul-less hotel - we absolutely loved it.. Perfect position being on a quiet road - 5 mins from the top of the Spanish steps and a cool live-jazz bar (can't remember name but on road leading up to steps). Didnt feel like a b&b or hotel, but like we had keys to our own personal flat - never saw or heard any of the other guests (think only 3 rooms anyway..). Discreet, helpful lady would order taxis/restaurants when asked but was never intrusive.. especially loved option of leaving a note if you wanted breakfast delivered to room the next morning, so no paying for food you didnt want. Gorgeous and will definitely be going back one day..
http://www.casahoward.com/

And probably will return to our two favourite restaurants of the stay too...

Ditirambo, Piazza della Cancelleria 74, Ghetto & Campo de'Fiori (06 687 1626).

And our blow-the-budget..
Agata e Romeo, Via Craloalberto 45, Monti, Termini & San Giovanni (06 446 6114).

We walked past the discreet doorway in the bustling Via Sistina a couple times before eventually finding and entering Casa Howard via a weathered door & fantastically ancient lift. We were met by Edgar, the incredibly attentive housekeeper and shown around this stunningly designed Italian House. We stayed in the Zebra room which was great fun although you might need your sunglasses as the decor jumps at you as you walk in.
My wife and I only stayed for a weekend, but Casa Howards charm and superb location made our first weekend in in Rome extremely memorable.

I had to write this review the minute I got home from Italy.
Upon booking a horrible hotel in Rome I called the Casa Howard (since it's listed as one of Conde Nast Travellers top locations) and asked for a room right then and there. Not only were they available - but they gave us the cheapest rate avail and booked us in the nicest room there (the Zebra Room).

The location is incredible (no taxi's needed) and so close to the subway. They booked all our tours for us, and went above and beyond (taking our clothing to get washed and folded in one afternoon - and on a holiday). Edgar (who runs this location is THE ABSOLUTE BEST!) He stops at nothing to jump through hoops for patrons and I truly wish we could have stayed at Casa Howards our whole trip! All the food reco's were incredible (Bon Appetit Magazine Styles)
The breakfast is great and immaculately presented. I travel for work all the time and am used to staying at top hotels - this one is the best one for an incredible rate that I have come across in a long time! Esp in Rome!
We were planning on going to Florence and they booked us for the exact same rate at their location in Florence and it was equally as lovely (the Fireplace room). Casa Howard needs to open more locations!!!!!