Clarion Hotel Sign: A Design Masterpiece in the Heart of Stockholm

August 25, 2016

Stockholm has seen a massive surge in international visitors lately, and nowhere is this success more evident than at the Clarion Hotel Sign. When I visited the hotel this past summer, I was once again struck by its extraordinary architecture and prime location. It is a celebration of Scandinavian design and urban pulse that has quickly become a favorite for both locals and travelers alike.

A spectacular landmark by Gert Wingårdh

Located right in the center of the city, just a short walk from the Central Station, the Clarion Hotel Sign is hard to miss. The building itself is a masterpiece designed by the renowned Swedish star architect Gert Wingårdh. With its sharp angles and granite-and-glass facade, it reflects the sky and the city’s energy in a way few other buildings do. Over the three decades I’ve spent exploring Sweden, I’ve seen many hotels, but the scale of this one – with its 558 rooms making it Stockholm’s largest hotel – is truly impressive.

And the best part? The design doesn’t stop at the entrance. Inside, the hotel feels like a curated gallery of Nordic heritage. Each floor is dedicated to furniture classics from legendary designers like Arne Jacobsen, Bruno Mathsson, and Alvar Aalto. Whether you are a design geek or just appreciate a beautiful armchair, the interior is a treat for the eyes.

Stay at the Clarion Hotel Sign

Experience Stockholm’s premier design hotel, located just minutes from the Arlanda Express and the main shopping districts. Don’t miss the rooftop pool!

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Insider tips from 30 years of Sweden travel. This guide contains affiliate links (marked with ➔) to help support my work at no extra cost to you.

Dining with a Manhattan pulse

One of the main reasons for the hotel’s recent “all-time high” in popularity is its focus on food and drink. The American Table Brasserie and Bar, developed in collaboration with world-famous chef Marcus Samuelsson, has become a hotspot in the city. Here, Scandinavian ingredients meet the vibrant flavors of Manhattan. It’s a concept that works perfectly for a quick lunch or a long dinner with friends. During my last stay, I noticed how the bar area was buzzing with locals – always a good sign that a hotel has successfully integrated into the city’s social fabric.

Relaxation with a view at Selma Spa

If you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, you only need to take the elevator to the eighth floor. Selma Spa is a true urban oasis. They offer a range of treatments, but the real highlight is the heated outdoor pool. Swimming high above the streets of Stockholm while looking out over the rooftops is an experience I highly recommend. To top it off, you can enjoy fresh dishes created by the “sushi queen” Frida Ronge, adding a sophisticated touch to your spa day.

Having followed the development of Stockholm’s hotel scene since the 1990s, I can safely say that the Clarion Hotel Sign has set a new standard for what a large-scale city hotel can be. It manages to feel personal and stylish despite its size.

Practical tips for your visit

Transport: The hotel is perfectly located for those arriving via the Arlanda Express. It’s just a 5-minute walk from the platform.
Rooms: Ask for a room on the higher floors for the best views over the park Norra Bantorget.
Photography: If you are into architecture photography, the facade looks particularly stunning during the “blue hour” just after sunset.