The Thief Oslo

For the Tjuvholmen project, world-famous architect Niels Torp brought together a group of his most forward-thinking contemporaries. Contributors to the neighborhood include acclaimed Norwegian architects as well as international stars such as Renzo Piano, whose brand-new Astrup Fearnley Museum of Art as the crown jewel of what’s already been christened Oslo’s “Arts District.” Designed by the prizewinning Mellbye Architekter AS, The Thief fits right into its cutting-edge environment. Located at the edge of the peninsula, the sustainably-constructed building is almost entirely surrounded by water – it’s even possible to arrive by boat during the summer months from Oslo’s city center. 

The hotel features 120 rooms, all with French balconies and state-of-the-art amenities, as well as six Junior Suites. For true art and luxury lovers, there's ‘The Oslo Suite’, a penthouse with incredible views both inside and out, pop art in tribute to English living legend Sir Peter Blake, and a 360-degree panoramic view from its own rooftop terrace. The Thief provides travelers with world-class comfort, with its six state-of-the-art meeting rooms, as well as a cozy wine & champagne bar with a stunning waterfront vistas. 

The hotel is located right next door to Scandinavia’s most exciting new art museum, but the interior of The Thief is practically a museum in its own right. Alongside furniture from established designers such as Tom Dixon and Boca do Lobo, guests will find new, inspiring pieces from Norwegian up-and-comers such as Magnus Pettersen and Anne Haavind, selected yearly as part of The Thief’s collaboration with DogA (the Norwegian Centre for Design and Architecture). Resulting from that collaboration, “The List of The Thief” already established itself as an important institution and showcase for young, talented Norwegian designers. 

In each room, the design is complemented by carefully chosen artwork; curator Sune Nordgren heads the hotel’s art concept, in collaboration with the Astrup Fearnley Museum. Current featured artists include Sir Peter Blake, Magne Furuholmen and Camilla Low, with many more local and international artists to come. 

It’s a feast for the eyes, to be certain, but other senses are not neglected. The hotel’s brasserie serves expertly prepared cuisine centered on local, seasonal food – imagine fish caught just kilometers away, served with market produce – with much of the menu available for round-the-clock room service. Meanwhile, opening in 2014, a 750sqm spa and wellness center will offer visitors a swimming pool, training facilities and countless opportunities for relaxation.