Modern Classics: Nobis Hotel, Copenhagen
Contemporary Scandinavian style meets old-school opulence at Copenhagen’s Nobis Hotel, one of the latest lodgings to join the coveted ranks of Design Hotels.
Housed in a landmark 1903 concrete building that was previously home to the Royal Danish Conservatory of Music, this cutting-edge hotel epitomises everything Denmark’s thriving capital is about; flawless design, gourmet eateries and all-round laid-back luxury.
Star architect Gert Wingårdh and his team at Wingårdhs were tasked with overseeing the hotel’s recent renovations. They wanted to pay homage to the building’s origins whilst considering contemporary design innovation. The result is a masterclass in marrying the old with the new. The building’s original architectural features – including the grand staircase and lavish ceiling details – have been meticulously restored and complemented by bold contemporary accents in high-quality natural materials like marble, copper, stone, oak, and glass.
Nobis’ 75 rooms and 3 suites host easy breezy spaces for rest and relaxation, whilst retaining a little of the historic grandeur.
A soothing palette of forest greens and ocean blues pair with chevron-patterned parquet floors and soaring ceilings. Large, crossbar windows allow for plenty of natural light and picturesque views of bustling downtown Copenhagen. Come evening the space is beautifully lit by way of bold Scandinavian drop pendants and standing lamps. Classic Danish furniture from Carl Hansen & Søn, rugs from Swedish Kasthall and luxurious, cloud-like beds by Duxiana finish out the dreamy look, while a lacquered oak minibar complete with Frederik Bagger crystal glasses ensures that nightcaps are always taken in style.
The bathrooms are almost entirely fitted in Bardiglio Nuvolato marble – known for its fine-grained, cloudy character. Crisp coloured vanities and deep tubs allow for plenty of pared-back pampering, while mounted wall mirrors work to create depth with space and light.
Nobis’ restaurant, Niels, stands out as much for its fit-out as its culinary delights. Wingårdh has covered the restaurant’s façade in glass and copper plates with strategically placed crossbars, paying homage to Le Corbusier’s Sainte Marie de La Tourette monastery building built in the late 1950s.
Low glass pendant lights, cool Danish furnishings and a dramatic royal blue carpet are recipe for a sophisticated yet dynamic style; a French-Nordic fusion that’s played out both on the plate and in the décor.
Nobis oozes Danish classicism, but imparts clever modern twists at every turn. The building’s original grandeur, while delicately preserved, is by no means overbearing, but rather the clever combination of old and new for the kind of sophisticated space that welcomes you in and asks you to stay for a martini. We might just stay for two.
Credits: Design Hotels, Nobis Hotel Copenhagen
