101 Hotel, Reykjavik
Iceland’s original design hotel, where contemporary art, Nordic minimalism, and political history come together in the heart of Reykjavík.
Why DNA Hotels Loves It
● One of Reykjavík’s pioneering boutique hotels, transforming a former political headquarters into a sophisticated design destination.
● A striking monochrome interior by Ingibjörg S. Pálmadóttir, enriched with contemporary Icelandic art and iconic designer furniture.
● An intimate atmosphere in one of the city’s most vibrant cultural neighbourhoods, surrounded by galleries, restaurants, and nightlife.
From Political Headquarters to Design Icon
Long before Reykjavík became one of Europe’s most fashionable city breaks, 101 Hotel introduced boutique hospitality to Iceland. Occupying a 1930s office building that once housed the Icelandic Social Democratic Party, the hotel transformed an unassuming modernist structure into one of the capital’s defining design addresses. Its history remains part of its identity, but today’s atmosphere is unmistakably contemporary. With just 38 rooms, 101 Hotel feels intimate, understated, and effortlessly cool—a hotel that has aged remarkably well while remaining one of Reykjavík’s benchmark design stays.
Monochrome with Character
Designed by Icelandic designer Ingibjörg S. Pálmadóttir, the interiors embrace a disciplined palette of black, white, charcoal, and steel grey. Rather than feeling austere, the monochrome scheme is softened through heated oak floors, natural hides, warm timber, polished concrete, and carefully layered textures. Throughout the hotel, contemporary Icelandic artworks from the owner’s private collection transform the public spaces into an ever-evolving gallery, while iconic furniture by Philippe Starck and Eero Saarinen sits comfortably alongside sculptural tree-trunk tables and bespoke pieces. The result is unmistakably Nordic—minimal, artistic, and quietly confident.
Rooms Designed for Calm
The guestrooms continue the restrained design language while introducing a warmer, more residential atmosphere. Oak flooring, crisp Italian linens, understated furnishings, Bang & Olufsen speakers, and carefully curated lighting create spaces that feel both luxurious and relaxed. Bathrooms feature underfloor heating, walk-in showers, Aveda amenities, and in selected suites, freestanding bathtubs positioned to make the most of Reykjavík’s changing light. Some suites also enjoy harbour views, balconies, and commissioned artwork, reinforcing the hotel’s strong artistic identity.
Art at the Centre
Art has always been integral to 101 Hotel. Rotating exhibitions by Icelandic artists, permanent installations throughout the public spaces, and the hotel’s long-standing connection to Reykjavík’s creative community give the property an atmosphere that extends well beyond hospitality. The lounge, illuminated by natural light from above and centred around a wood-burning fireplace, functions as both gallery and social space, attracting locals alongside international guests. It’s one of the reasons the hotel has remained a favourite among artists, filmmakers, musicians, and designers for more than two decades.
Dining and Social Life
The restaurant and adjoining bar perfectly reflect the hotel’s love of contrast. The sleek, dark bar creates an intimate setting with lacquered tables, vintage furnishings, and low lighting, while the adjoining restaurant feels bright and contemporary beneath its glass roof. Here, modern Icelandic cuisine celebrates local seafood, Arctic char, lamb, and seasonal produce, complemented by excellent breakfasts and an atmosphere that remains lively throughout the day. Downstairs, a discreet spa with steam room, hot tub, plunge pool, and fitness facilities offers a welcome retreat after exploring the city.
Why it Works
101 Hotel remains one of Reykjavík’s defining boutique hotels because it never chased trends—it helped create them. By combining contemporary Icelandic art, refined Nordic design, and the layered history of its former political home, it delivers a stay that feels intelligent, intimate, and effortlessly stylish. For travelers looking to experience Reykjavík’s creative soul, few addresses capture it quite so authentically.
