Overview
Eilert Smith Hotel is a boutique property located in Stavanger, Norway, offering a distinctive blend of architectural heritage and contemporary luxury. With just 12 individually designed rooms and suites, the hotel provides an intimate atmosphere complemented by attentive, personalised service. The property is renowned for housing RE-NAA, a three-MICHELIN-starred restaurant led by chef Sven Erik Renaa, making it a destination for gastronomes. The building, originally constructed in 1937 as a functionalistic warehouse, has been meticulously renovated to preserve its historical character while introducing modern comforts. Guests enjoy views over the city and harbour, with Stavanger’s vibrant street art, colourful buildings, and Viking heritage just steps away. The hotel’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its careful selection of suppliers and climate-conscious practices.
Why this grade
Eilert Smith Hotel earns an EMPTYJET star under the First Star doctrine: a single EMPTYJET star is an enormous honor — like a restaurant's first MICHELIN star; only 777 hotels on Earth hold any star at all. It is one of 280 one-star houses on Earth and occupies seat 53 of 280. The case for that star is concrete: an EMPTYJET Consensus of 90/100, the recognition Best in Country — N°1 house in Norway, a MICHELIN Guide One Key, and an on-property restaurant, RE-NAA, which holds 3 MICHELIN star(s). Together, these facts explain the award of the first EMPTYJET star.
History
The building that houses Eilert Smith Hotel was originally constructed in 1937 as the machine department of Rogaland Felleskjøp. Designed by architect Eilert Smith, the structure exemplifies the functionalistic warehouse style of the era. In 2019, the building underwent a comprehensive renovation led by architect Pål Trodahl from Trodahl Arkitekter, transforming it into a boutique hotel while preserving its historical essence. The hotel opened its doors in 2019, marking a new chapter in the building’s storied past.
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Architecture & interiors
Eilert Smith Hotel is a striking example of functionalistic warehouse architecture, characterised by its use of travertine, brass, marble, and wood. The building features a distinctive clock tower, slim horizontal windows, and curved geometrical shapes, all hallmarks of its original 1937 design by Eilert Smith. The recent renovation has preserved these architectural elements while introducing contemporary interiors that respect the building’s heritage. The result is a harmonious blend of historical character and modern luxury, with each space thoughtfully designed to reflect both the past and present.
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Rooms & suites
The hotel offers 12 individually designed rooms and suites, each thoughtfully appointed to provide comfort and style. Accommodation options include:
- Superior Single: Approximately 20 m² (215 sqft), featuring a 120 cm bed, kitchenette, lounge chair, spacious work desk, and city view.
- Deluxe Double: Approximately 30 m² (322 sqft), with a queen-size bed, kitchenette, lounge or dining table, and city or roof view.
- Junior Suite: Approximately 40 m² (430 sqft), offering a king-size bed, spacious seating area, dining table, kitchenette, and sea view over the harbour.
- Superior Suite: Approximately 50 m² (538 sqft), with a king-size bed, spacious seating area, dining table, and either sea or city view.
- Eilert's Residence: The signature suite, spanning approximately 250 m² (2,690 sqft) over two floors. It features a master bedroom with king-size bed, master bathroom with a bathtub for two and separate shower, open kitchen, butler’s pantry, and two terraces offering 360° views.
Each room and suite is individually designed, blending modern amenities with the building’s architectural heritage.
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Dining
Dining at Eilert Smith Hotel is defined by RE-NAA, the on-site restaurant led by chef Sven Erik Renaa. RE-NAA is celebrated for its focus on seafood, locally produced vegetables, and wild game, and has been awarded three MICHELIN stars, a rare accolade in the Nordic region. The restaurant’s culinary philosophy centres on the use of the finest local ingredients, prepared with precision and creativity. RE-NAA’s reputation as a gastronomic destination is further enhanced by its elegant setting within the hotel, making it a draw for both guests and visitors to Stavanger.
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Service & reputation
Eilert Smith Hotel is noted for its personalised concierge service, offering tailored assistance to ensure a memorable stay. The staff are dedicated to handling practicalities and crafting unique experiences for each guest.
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Location & setting
Situated in Stavanger, Eilert Smith Hotel is surrounded by the city’s vibrant cultural scene, including funky street art, rainbow-coloured buildings, and a rich Viking heritage. The hotel offers views over the city and harbour, with access to the region’s renowned fjords and natural landscapes. Stavanger’s emerging food scene and proximity to breathtaking nature make it an appealing destination for travellers seeking both urban and outdoor experiences.
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The EMPTYJET verdict
Eilert Smith Hotel is ideally suited for travellers who value architectural heritage, intimate scale, and exceptional gastronomy. Its combination of a meticulously restored functionalistic building, individually designed rooms, and the presence of a three-MICHELIN-starred restaurant positions it as a destination for design enthusiasts and culinary connoisseurs alike. The hotel’s location in Stavanger offers access to both the city’s cultural attractions and Norway’s dramatic natural scenery, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a refined, immersive experience in the region.
Good to know
The hotel’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its careful selection of suppliers and climate-conscious approach. Guests benefit from a high level of personalised service, including a dedicated concierge. The property’s small scale ensures an intimate atmosphere, while its location provides easy access to both Stavanger’s urban attractions and the surrounding natural beauty.





