Arrival

Story Hotel is located in the Studio building in the old port of Malmø and is a community for different businesses. The entire entrance/reception is very large with a café, restaurant, open office space, ping pong table and a broad staircase leading to the first floor. The reception lies in the middle of the locale, and there I was received by a very charming receptionist. We started discussing hotels as we are both wild about them. He told me of one in Rome that I will have to visit soon. This was a perfect start for me; I think it is so wonderful that this hotel hires people who are passionate about their jobs.

Design and decor

The large, high ceilings are decorated with a modern industrial style that fit perfectly in the surroundings. It has an urban feel with its ping pong table, cycle-café and large blackboards that you can jot on. In other words, it is young, fresh and super instafriendly!

Ambiance

Though I have seen the open common area before, with its place for working, meeting and eating, I was impressed by this one. On the Monday afternoon when I passed, there were not a lot of people, but there was definitely an authentic vibe. With its high ceilings and whimsical staircase with sitting space, I sensed here an opportunity to explore. I felt like sitting and working here, being curious to meet the others that operate from this space.

Room

I was lucky to be upgraded to a suite- and damn! A very impressive room with a wonderful view. There were 3 big windows from the floor to the ceiling. It makes your heart skip a little when you stand by the window and look down 12 stories. The view included the industrial area, the new office district and the ferry harbour. Standing there and watching the sunset was truly stunning. The light in the room was very special.

The room was as I expected. And had - of course velour sofas. Orange velour - Come on! The hotel I had been in two days ago also had orange velour. 70% of all the hotels I go to have velour sofas. It must soon stop… - MOVE ON!

There was a new coffee machine, though I never understood why they can’t throw a brick of milk in the fridge. When there is a fridge and a coffee machine and coffee, that little extra detail would make me a very pleased guest.

The bathroom was very pleasant, with a bathtub and luscious products. But the old and worn hairdryer put me in a bad mood!

But that was a small matter. I was happy.

Restaurant

Kauai lies on the 13th (or was it the 14th?) floor. Designed with Japanese deco, including pink plastic cherry trees that are very trendy lately. It worked well. The huge roof terrace had an amazing view over all of Malmø. It is the highest located outdoor terrace in the city, and it was stunning, especially at sunset.

The food was yummy. Japanese tradition with a Swedish touch. But I was on a date, so I was focused on things other than the food. Exactly that day! ;-)

Breakfast was served in the same restaurant and was a completely uninspired experience. The view was still fantastic, but the food was very boring.