Design Digs: Where to Stay in Stockholm

Whether you're headed to Stockholm this August for the EuroGames or simply planning on taking advantage of the nearly 24 hours of summer sunshine, this gorgeous Nordic city offers several design-driven hotels that celebrate the Swedish design aesthetic.

Nobis Hotel
For luxury in the heart of Stockholm, Nobis Hotel captures the very essence of Swedish design. Architect studio Claesson Koivisto Rune has transformed two 19th-century buildings on Norrmalmstorg Square. The bourgeoisie stone exterior gives way to luxe interior finishes that take inspiration from Stockholm winters. Mellow grays and neutral tones complement innovative details. Nobis also plays host to one of the city's most elegant cocktail lounges, Gold Bar, and an airy lounge with ceilings that soar 92 feet high.

It is also the site of the famed 1973 bank heist where hostages gained sympathy for their captors during a six-day standoff. "Stockholm Syndrome" is now used to describe similar hostage situations, but the only syndrome visitors are likely to encounter is perhaps shopping fatigue among the area's flagship retailers.

Hotel Hellsten
Tucked on a quiet but conveniently located residential street is Per Hellsten's signature property, the Hotel Hellsten. The former photojournalist turned hotelier purchased the late-19th-century building that had once been a brothel and in more recent years a recording studio. Each room is unique, painted in deeply saturated colors of deep purple, ochre and crimson.

For international flair, be sure to enjoy a cocktail in the Hellsten Earth Bar, decorated with photos, masks and furnishings from Hellsten's adventurous days throughout Africa and Asia.

For simpler accommodations, stay across the street at Hellsten's Rex Hotel or Rex Petit, which are more budget-friendly and reflect traditional Scandinavian design.

Nordic Light Hotel
The northern light inspired interior designers Jan S�der and Lars Pihl to create a hotel that is visually stimulating and constantly evolving with the installation of different art exhibits. The 175-room hotel is just steps from Stockholm Central Station and Arlanda Express - the high-speed rail that connects the city center to Stockholm Arlanda Airport.

For those socially inclined, the Nordic Light Hotel is the first Nordic country to accept social networking as currency. With a couple of hashtags (#nordiclighthotel) and posts, visitors with substantial followers on Instagram or Facebook can earn free nights. All the more reason to return and visit The Crooked Leg, the hotel's quirky restaurant featuring craft cocktails, locally inspired comfort food, and a secret dining area tucked behind the bar.