NOBIS HOTEL STOCKHOLM

It takes a true traveller to understand the needs of fellow explorers — those who seek experiences that stand out, enriched by the thoughtful details that elevate a stay. It’s this spirit that places Nobis Stockholm at the top of any discerning traveller’s list. The hotel’s owner and creator Alessandro Catenacci, has drawn on his own experiences, thoughtfully considering every detail to ensure that each moment at Nobis is memorable. 

Words by Leigh Maynard.

Set within two interconnected nineteenth-century buildings, this 201-room, six-floor hotel is aptly located in fashionable Östermalm, overlooking Norrmalmstorg square. The waterfront, luxury shops, acclaimed restaurants, and private members' clubs are just steps away. The hotel’s striking stone facade is emblematic of the architectural grandeur that flourished in Stockholm at the turn of the century. Known as “Stone City,” these magnificent structures reveal remarkable secrets once you step inside.

The acclaimed architecture and design trio Claesson Koivisto Rune approached this historic space with their distinctive, thoughtful aesthetic. 

“As we created this hotel in two historic buildings, we had the chance to shape a specific kind of atmosphere from the outset, which was one of our main ambitions with the design. The real challenge was achieving this effect while at the same time being modern, edgy, sharp, and contemporary, without the standard features of most traditional luxury hotels – the gold, the velvet, the thick red carpets and all that. We’ve worked with and against the buildings to achieve the effects we want here,” says Eero Koivisto.

Inspired by Stockholm’s winter palette and adorned with carefully curated designer pieces, the interiors embrace a minimal yet inviting aesthetic. Muted tones enhance the sense of calm, complemented by a friendly and accomplished team whose professional,composed approach reinforces the atmosphere. This thoughtful design philosophy extends into each room, where layered lighting invites guests to create an ambience that mirrors their mood. 

Our room, one of the hotel’s five junior suites, was elegantly appointed with natural materials — wood, stone, leather, and glass — in a palette of muted greys and deep blue velvet.  A playful cherub peered down from a corner, reminding us that we were in a hotel that truly values attention to detail. The bathroom, clad in cool grey marble and stocked with Byredo’s aromatic Bal d’Afrique, reflected the hotel’s mindful approach to design. A fully stocked fridge, a Nespresso coffee machine, a selection of teas, and an assortment of snacks and Swedish sweets made us feel instantly at home. 

Beyond the rooms, several inviting spaces await: the Bino Food Bar with its European dishes; the Gold Bar for drinks and light bites, and NOI, the elegant dining room. Charismatic Chef Manos and his team invited us to NOI, where we sampled beautifully crafted dishes and experienced exceptional service. Highlights included roasted cauliflower in brown butter and yuzu hollandaise, with confit silver skin onion, truffle, romesco sauce, and toasted hazelnuts — a vegetarian’s dream. Those inclined to meat and fish can choose from dishes such as steak tartare, seared Arctic char, Albacore tuna, and slow-cooked Swedish lamb shank.

Perhaps the crowning glory of this luxury five-star hotel is the lounge, otherwise known as Stockholm’s living room: an airy 28-metre-high atrium. The space is divided into four individual lounge areas, each with its own personality. Many of the rooms, along with the marble steam sauna and fully equipped gym, offer vistas onto this magnificent space. A spectacular chandelier hangs between two glass domes in the ceiling above, and with its carefully curated art, this is where guests and Stockholmers alike can relax over a  drink or enjoy a light meal. The ‘living room,’ our favourite space, is the heart of Nobis Stockholm, reflecting its warm, generous and considerate spirit.

At Nobis Stockholm, there is a constant sense of this spirit, delivered by people who treat guests as they themselves would wish to be treated. Director Claes Anerud succinctly emphasises this:

 “Kindness, knowledge, warmth, intuition and personality – these are some of the key values that will distinguish the service with which we treat our guests at Nobis Hotel.” 

Our thoughts turn to Nobis’ owner, whose authentic approach is apparent at every turn. Alessandro Catenacci knows what it means to be a guest — and he truly knows hospitality.

For more information, visit the Nobis Hotel Stockholm website.