Down by the wharf, amongst the many wooden buildings, one building stands out from the rest. White, modern and tall it stretches towards the sky – a perfectly designed pearl by the fjord. The Eilert Smith Hotel is a rare architectural gem, and the style and grace that you find on the outside are also apparent on the inside.It has been eight years since Signe Anne and Kristoffer Stensrud fell in love with its interesting façade and bought this previously slightly run down-building. Although they had no specific plans for it at first, it seemed only right to make it a luxury hotel with a smart homely feel. This wonderful funkis building has been through several improvements since then. With the help of the architect firm Trodahl Arkitekter, the Stensrud family has managed to keep the original buildings charm and historical heritage, yet managed to create a modern hotel with a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The building itself dates back to 1937 and was originally designed by its namesake, Stavanger architect Eilert Smith. Although Mr Smith is known for designing several hotels, this building, when first opened, was an agricultural store for the people of Stavanger. It was filled with everything from tractor parts to the newest freezers on the market. The newly built brick building was a modern addition to the city and was created as a result of the upturn in the economy. At the time there was a newfound enthusiasm for functional brick buildings and plans were made for several of these to be built throughout Stavanger. However, a new recession wanted it differently, plans changed, and few of these buildings were built. Down by the harbour, there was only one– the now, Eilert Smith Hotel.
Scandinavian sustainability, design and excellence
The building has been the host of many different endeavours throughout the years but is now the home to RE-NAA, a gourmet restaurant with two stars in the Michelin Guide, and 12 exquisitely designed hotel rooms.
Every single room is unique, and with all rooms individually designed, it can be hard to pick a favourite. Perhaps you would like the pleasant view of the fjord from room 1 or maybe you would prefer room 5, the library room with its five-meter-long bookshelf? But no matter what room you choose there is always something new to discover and admire within these brick walls.
The Eilert Smith Hotel embrace sustainability in everything they do. Food and fresh produce are collected from a nearby island, and floor to ceiling is filled with locally designed items; handmade porcelain dishes by Odd standard fill the kitchen shelves and artistic, colourful flowers, from the flower shop Stilken and Strøm, brightens up every room. The interior itself is Scandinavian-based and the lovely wooden furniture throughout the hotel have been handcrafted at Københavns Møbelsnedkeri in Denmark, and two local furniture companies, Eikund and Egersund Møbelsnekkeri. It is evident that everything from interior to exterior has been chosen carefully, every element complements each other and there is no doubt that the Eilert Smith Hotel is an impressive work of art.
Eilert Smith Hotel is the perfect place for those who appreciate design and comfort but is also ideal for those who want to feel pampered while experiencing something different and unique. Whether you are passing through Stavanger, staying for a few days or wanting the perfect place for your event – you can be confident that this hotel will provide. With few and intimate rooms, the staff are only too happy to make your stay special, comfortable and luxurious. Breakfast is served every morning in your room and Norwegian-made duvets will provide you with an amazing night’s sleep.
The cultural centre of Stavanger is not too far from this marvellous design hotel. Spend time in museums, shops, restaurants and everything else the city has to offer. However, with Eilert Smith Hotel’s amazing design, staff, and atmosphere, no one would blame you for wanting to spend your time in Stavanger to simply explore this modern and stylish hotel.
