A Home Away from Home: My Stay at Stockholm’s Ett Hem

These days I often find myself reflecting on past holidays and travels. Daydreaming is a refreshing escape when working from home. One such experience happened two years ago in Stockholm… at Ett Hem, a hotel I visited with my mother for a week-long getaway. Situated atop a hill in Lärkstaden, Ett Hem is quiet enough to make you feel you’re staying in the privacy of your own home, but close enough to main shopping street, Birger Jarlsgatan, that you can sneak away for some retail therapy. In other words, it’s in the perfect location.

Ett Hem, which means ‘A Home’ in Swedish, is truly your home away from home. Upon arrival, you’re brought into the hotel’s ‘lobby’, which translates more to a welcoming sitting room. Sofas and chairs are situated in cozy corners, bookshelves line the rooms, and stairs lead off into little nooks and crannies. The atmosphere exudes informal elegance. Designed by Ilse Crawford, the hotel has tailored everything to the guest’s experience. Our suite boasted a spacious layout: a traditional fireplace, dining area with a view, an elegant bathroom with marble tub… all illuminated by a gorgeous chandelier. Swedish sophistication.

“If you have a sudden craving, just pop down to the kitchen for some delicious goodies. Just like at home.”

As if we were at home, we woke each morning to the comforting smell of breakfast. You can take breakfast anywhere. If breakfast in bed suits you, a spread will be brought up to your room. Tiptoe down the stairs and into the exquisite common room where you can enjoy your breakfast with a fascinating read. Or, if you’d like some fresh air, head to the conservatory for a beautiful view of the garden. With traditional delights such as kanelbullar, or granola and yogurt, or fresh baked bread and croissants, the breakfast of your dreams is at your fingertips. If you have a sudden craving, just pop down to the kitchen for some delicious goodies. Just like at home. While we were there, we took full advantage of this and after packed days shopping and exploring, we frequented the kitchen for some delightful cake and baked goods.

But while we may have been on vacation, the Swedish winter weather unfortunately wasn’t. With snow, and temperatures that were frighteningly cold, we particularly enjoyed the warmth at Ett Hem. And when we did venture outside, it made coming back more welcome. Sweden’s short and cold winter nights are no cause for gloom because, when the sun sets, Ett Hem’s outdoor space turns into a magical winter wonderland. Firepits, lanterns and fur-draped chairs adorn the outdoors. Our stay left us feeling well-rested and pampered. Yet Ett Hem is more than just a hotel and more than just a home… it’s the best of both worlds. I highly recommend a visit to this physical embodiment of luxurious informal comfort. Ett Hem is yours to make your own, and I suggest making a reservation ASAP.

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