Sommerro House is arguably the coolest new hotel in Oslo. A bold statement, yes, but before I even set foot on Norwegian soil to visit the Scandinavian hotspot, at least four people enquired as to whether I would be staying at this recently restored iconic, Art Deco property; such is its word of mouth appeal. And having spent three nights there – including two at the adjoining ultra luxury 11 suite retreat, Villa Inkognito – I can see why. Set in one of Oslo’s landmark, listed 1930’s buildings – the original HQ of the city’s electricity company – in the historic but hip West End neighbourhood of Frogner, since opening its doors in September 2022, Sommerro House has caused quite the stir.
Who is Sommerro for?
With three bars, four restaurants (including Oslo’s first and only rooftop restaurant and pool), one underground cinema and a sprawling wellness centre and spa that includes the revival of the city’s original Art Deco public baths, Sommerro has plenty to offer, especially those with a taste for glamour. Welcomed upon arrival by Sommerro’s dapper GM, Dominic Gorham, the city’s cool crowd have flocked to Sommerro since day one for the food scene, the bars and to enjoy the regular live music, including evening jazz at the stunning bar and restaurant, Ekspedisjonshallen. For film fans, the 28-seater cinema hosts weekly themed movie events, such as the popular Marilyn Monroe brunch or wine and dine crime nights.
For those with a keen eye for design, the hotel is the handiwork of the London/ New York based design duo, GrecoDeco, also the brains behind London’s The Ned, part of the Soho House group. As the building is from the same era as The Ned, the powers that be wanted a similar feel and the results of the five year refurbishment are exceptional, with extraordinary attention to detail. Much of the furniture, fittings and wallpaper is bespoke and many original features have been retained – such as the tiled mosaics and bathing cubicles in the spa
What are the bedrooms like?
Sizeable and chic with a warm colour palette of reds, greens and different woods, including teak, with particularly impressive Art Deco inspired bed headboards in each room. Soft, cosy rugs under foot, bluetooth speakers and a pile of books including coffee table tomes on the hotel’s heritage and restoration, plus a cookery book from Sommerro’s very own Frida Ronge. Byredo products in the bathrooms score extra chic points.