The buzz out of Finland? A new design-centric boutique hotel debuted in the capital this month and the Scandinavian décor is turning lots of heads. A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, the Lilla Roberts hotel is situated in Helsinki’s capital’s design district. The building itself dates from the early 20th century, when it was designed by one of Finland’s top architects, Selim A. Lindqvist, to serve as the headquarters for Helsinki’s Energy Works.
The 130 contemporary-style rooms are done up in a black-and-white color scheme with gold accents. All rooms come with free Wi-Fi, luxurious linens, and coffee machines. Top digs: The two-bedroom suite with views over Kasarmitori to the sea. Facilities include a state-of-the-art gym, Finnish sauna, two meeting rooms, a bistro restaurant with a fireplace, and a chic bar for cocktails.
On the official website, Director of Operations Roni Saari describes the spirit of the hotel as embodying "Hygge", a Nordic word which means "creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people.”
