Inside Stockholm Stadshotell: A House Where You Can Eat, Sleep, and Socialise

The other two founders, Ian Nicholson and Fredrik Carlström, bring a wealth of experience from iconic establishments such as The Mercer Hotel, Chiltern Firehouse, Château Marmont, and Alma on Nybrogatan in Stockholm. Together they founded Another Structure, a company that merges urban development with a deep respect for design and culture.

Fredrik Carlström, Creative Director, shares more:

“I got to know Johan, Jon, and Dan because I was always at their restaurants whenever I was in Stockholm—I loved the vibe, the food, and the kind of places they created. When I started spending more time in Stockholm in the fall of 2020, we met and started talking about this building that was set to become a hotel. I brought in Ian, and we decided to do it together, blending our different experiences and expertise. It just felt like a good match.

“We knew right away that Stockholm was missing a hotel like this—one that was gastronomy-led. That philosophy has shaped everything, from the design decisions to the creative direction of Stockholm Stadshotell.”

The 32 rooms and suites are designed with a timeless elegance that honours the building’s storied past while offering the comforts of modern living. Each room tells its own story, with carefully preserved original details and unique quirks. Inspired by the 1870s Arts and Crafts movement, the interiors celebrate craftsmanship, natural materials, and the human touch—a philosophy that continues to resonate, inviting guests to enjoy authentic experiences in intimate settings.

The hotel aims to collaborate closely with artists, gallerists, and others, offering visitors a chance to encounter art in an intimate—and sometimes unexpected—setting. From carefully curated pieces in guest rooms to site-specific installations woven into the fabric of the building, every detail is considered. One example is the elevators, where woodworker Klara Knutsson has created an intricate intarsia—depicting XX. This approach is deeply rooted in the principles of the Arts and Crafts movement, which emphasized the integration of art into everyday life.

“The Arts & Crafts movement of the 1870s was a major inspiration for the design and ethos of Stockholm Stadshotell. Just as the original movement was a response to the industrial revolution—emphasizing craftsmanship, quality materials, and the human touch—we wanted to create a hotel that fosters connection, curiosity, and a return to artisanal values. Blurring the line between art and craft is a core element of Scandinavian design, and we believe the hotel, its furnishings, and the hospitality experience should enrich the senses and bring beauty to everyday life.

“One collaboration that stands out is with Anne Nilsson and Nybruk. I know Anne’s son, Alfred, and I asked if she’d be interested in designing a vase for the hotel. That led to two vases and, unexpectedly, the launch of the first design-driven glassworks to open in Sweden in 100 years.

“The first, “Asta”, is hand-blown by Mikael Johansson and asymmetrically cut by Simon Holm, creating a form that looks different from every angle—reflecting light and its surroundings like a kaleidoscope. The second, “Auden” (named after my daughter), is a bold, hand-blown splash of color, designed for Matsalen, our fine dining restaurant. It’s versatile—working as a vase, a candle holder, or simply a beautiful object.”

This dedication to craftsmanship and artistic collaboration is reflected throughout the hotel, not only in its furnishings but also in its curated art. The entire hotel features work by Swedish photographer Gunnar Smoliansky. “He’s well-known, but in some ways, still underappreciated,” says Carlström. He continues: “His photography captures quiet, everyday moments—initially through candid street photography, but as people became more aware of the camera, his focus shifted to the traces people leave behind. Later in life, he moved toward architecture and nature.

“His connection to the area—his studio was just around the corner—and his ability to capture fleeting moments felt like a perfect match for a hotel. We worked closely with the Gunnar Smoliansky Foundation to bring his work into the space, not just as art on the walls, but as part of a larger cultural program, from talks to jazz evenings—since he was also a prominent jazz photographer.”

This deep engagement with local culture reflects a broader vision: Stockholm Stadshotell isn’t just inspired by the city’s creative reputation—it’s built for the people who shape it.

“Stockholm has influenced the hotel in many ways, but first and foremost, we wanted to create a space for the locals who make the city great. We felt that Södermalm, despite being home to so much creative talent, was missing a place where people could come together. If you build a space that’s fun to be in and draws locals, it naturally becomes the most interesting place for a curious traveler to stay.  After all, that’s how we met—and now we own a hotel together.”