Oslo’s Art Deco heritage has been given new life with the opening of Sommerro, a luxury hotel and residence complex located in the Frogner neighborhood in the city’s West End. Housed in the former headquarters of Oslo Lysverker, the city’s original electrical company, the restored landmark now offers 231 guestrooms, 56 private residences, seven dining and bar concepts, and event facilities for up to 150 people. The property also features a gilded 100-seat theater and a comprehensive wellness area that includes a full-service gym and Oslo’s first year‑round rooftop pool, sauna and terrace.
© Lars Petter Pettersen
The project stands as one of Norway’s most significant preservation efforts and is managed by Nordic Hotels & Resorts. Sommerro emphasizes sustainability and local engagement: the restaurants prioritize sustainable seafood and regional produce, the hotel partners with social enterprises such as Sisters in Business, and many materials and services are chosen for their low environmental impact. Guests can borrow bicycles, use electric vehicle charging and parking, and benefit from a strict ban on single-use plastic water bottles. The property also operates on renewable energy wherever possible.
“Sommerro is more than a hotel. It is an iconic building housing years of history, located in one of Oslo’s most vibrant and exciting areas. We want everyone to feel at home at Sommerro, whether you are a guest or a local seeking a place to hang out with friends, work, or simply relax in beautiful surroundings,” said Petter A. Stordalen, founder of Nordic Choice Hotels (now Strawberry). “We believe that Sommerro will take Oslo to the next level of hospitality, and I am really looking forward to opening the doors to this fantastic project, bringing the building back to life for more generations to come.”
© Lars Petter Pettersen
Room types range from intimate loft rooms to lavish junior and Heritage suites, all appointed with Art Deco-inspired details. Beds are supplied by Swedish maker Hilding Anders, and interiors showcase rich textiles, including upholstery that references 1930s Norwegian motifs. The hotel displays original local art throughout, most notably an expansive wall fresco and ceiling mural by renowned Norwegian artist Per Krohg. A resident jazz musician and composer curates pop-up music and cultural events, while the culinary program blends classic and contemporary Nordic plates. For a different vibe, guests can visit Barramon, the on-site Spanish tapas and wine bar.
© Lars Petter Pettersen
Added to the complex this month is Vestkanbadet, one of the country’s last remaining public baths dating back to 1932. The 15,000‑square‑foot underground wellness facility includes a restored Roman bath area, a striking Per Krohg wall mosaic, a sauna, cold plunge, treatment rooms and a full gym.
© Chris Aadland
The wellness program offers a variety of guided experiences, from Wim Hof–style cold‑water breathing sessions to nutrition workshops and sleep-masterclasses. For a memorable fjord experience, guests can join a two‑day electric sauna-boat retreat organized in collaboration with local partners, combining relaxation and low‑emission exploration of the nearby waterways.