Miss Clara by Nobis

Built in 1910 as a school for girls and named for one of its headmistresses, Miss Clara’s original Art Nouveau structure is largely untouched, but redesigned interiors daringly combine modern, industrial, and mid-century furnishings. The former school’s original wrought iron staircase remains as a reminder of the building’s history. A sleek granite reception desk leads to a seating area featuring chairs with retro cane meshing alongside contemporary art prints. Exposed ceiling beams and cut-glass pendant lamps hang over leather seating in the bar and restaurant. The mingling of styles from various eras is unconventional, but flawlessly executed and the funky yet refined effect draws mostly couples and business travelers looking for something swanky but not stuffy. 

Situated near the major shopping street of Drottninggatan and fairly close to central Stockholm, the hotel is surrounded by cafes and shops, and is about 20 minutes on foot to tourist sites like the Royal Palace and the old town of Gamla Stan. Other big draws, including the Skansen history museum, the Vasa Museum, and the ABBA Museum, are accessible within 30 minutes via the efficient Tunnelbana underground metro (there’s a station less than a five-minute walk from the hotel). Stockholm Central Station (a 10-minute walk) has airport express trains that reach Stockholm Arlanda Airport in 30 minutes. By car, the airport is about 40 minutes away. The hotel provides airport transportation for fees. 

Rooms are available in Small, Standard, Superior, or Deluxe varieties, but ranging from 150 to 322 square feet, they aren’t particularly big. However, they’re beautifully styled. Clean herringbone floors, sleek window benches replacing conventional seating areas or work desks, and dark bedframes serve as modern contrasts against the crisp white walls and classic arched windows veiled by vintage half curtains. Energy-conserving LED lights provide sufficient brightness. Single or double beds made up with Egyptian sheets are exceptionally comfortable, but the lack of space means that most rooms have minimal drawer space, and large wall hooks in place of closets. All rooms have air-conditioning, safes, 37-inch flat-screen TVs, minibars, and free Wi-Fi. Tea-and coffee-making facilities are not provided. Bi-level Suites have work desks, separate seating areas, and multiple TVs.

Marble bathrooms are tiny but clean, modern, and stylish. All have walk-in showers with transparent doors and handheld showerheads. Orla Kiely toiletries and hairdryers are provided. Frosted glass and sheer curtains might not provide enough privacy for modest guests. 

Rooms facing the inner courtyard don’t have much of a view, but are considerably quieter than street-facing rooms, which can experience traffic noise, especially if located on lower levels. Mobility-accessible rooms are available.

Features are both convenient and stylish. The restaurant’s food is as elegant as its decor, with lunch and dinner menus focusing on organic, seasonal ingredients for the Swedish and international bistro fare. The breakfast buffet isn’t always included with rates, but the selection of wholesome granolas and breads, jams, meats, cheeses, and make-your-own waffles is top-quality, attracting even non-guests. The bar is upscale and airy, but the DJ’d music featured multiple times a week can get too loud for some tastes. The hotel also owns its own pizzeria (next door) serving wood-fired pies. 24-hour room service is available from a limited menu.

The small, clean gym is well-equipped with Lifefitness cardio machines, exercise balls, and free weights. An adjacent, modern sauna comes with its own shower area. 

Meeting spaces are slick and spacious. They including a boardroom, an indoor dining room, and a stunning private terrace on a higher floor, with all-glass floor-to-ceiling windows. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. 

Babysitting services are provided for fees if booked several days in advance. Laundry service is available. Valet parking can be purchased at the hotel’s private underground garage. All public areas are wheelchair-accessible.