Occupying the former headquarters for Oslo Lysverker – the city’s electrical company – the opening of Sommerro marked the rebirth of a 1930s landmark in one of Oslo’s loveliest neighbourhoods. Perched on Solli Plass in Oslo’s elegant Frogner neighbourhood, a short stride or a tram ride away from the city centre, Sommerro’s original design is the work of prolific Norwegian architects Andreas Bjercke and Georg Eliassen, creators of some of Oslo’s most recognisable buildings such as the neo-baroque headquarters for the former cruise ship company Norwegian America Line. Now, across the 246-rooms – including an accompanying villa with 15 rooms and suites – 56 hotel-branded apartments, and a clutch of buzzing public spaces, these original features have been meticulously restored, expanded with a hub of restaurants and bars, plans for a library and a small private cinema, and the city’s first rooftop pool, sauna and terrace- a year-round destination with sweeping views over the Norwegian capital. The result is luxurious and opulent with a hint of whimsy and a strong attention to detail.
