Perched on Mount Fløyen, 320 meters above sea level, Fløirestauranten offers breathtaking panoramic views of Bergen's city center, fjords, and surrounding landscapes. The site is a landmark attraction, easily accessed via the iconic Fløibanen funicular, which takes just six minutes from the city center.
Originally designed in the early 1920s by renowned Bergen architect Einar Oscar Schou, Fløirestauranten boasts a neoclassical architectural style inspired by the fairytale-like Soria Moria Castle. The structure is predominantly wooden, with intricate design details that reflect both the grandeur and charm of the era. The building first opened its doors in 1925 and has since become a symbol of Bergen's cultural and architectural heritage.
The design of Fløirestauranten reflects a deep respect for its nearly century-old history while embracing contemporary elements to meet the needs of today’s guests. The overarching theme of “roots” guided the design process, symbolizing the building's historical and cultural ties to Bergen while fostering new connections through fresh ideas and sustainable practices.
The interior was envisioned as a warm, inclusive space where history meets the modern era. It needed to be dignified yet approachable, appealing to a wide audience, from casual hikers and tourists to fine dining enthusiasts. The interplay of nostalgic and modern elements ensures guests feel grounded in the building's history while experiencing contemporary comfort and design innovation.
The interiors of Fløirestauranten showcase a thoughtfully curated selection of iconic Scandinavian furniture from renowned suppliers such as Fritz Hansen, Fredericia, Please Wait to Be Seated,and Mater. These pieces exemplify the region’s design ethos of combining functionality, sustainability, and timeless aesthetics.
A significant portion of the furniture and fixed fixtures was custom-designed by Sol Design to meet the specific needs of the project. These pieces blend seamlessly with the architecture, offering a tailored look that respects the historical character of the building while introducing fresh, modern touches.
Vintage Knag chairs were meticulously restored and reupholstered in high-quality leather by Christoffer Knag, a nod to the legacy of Bergen’s celebrated furniture maker. Old tables were also refurbished, showcasing a commitment to sustainability and honoring the craftsmanship of the past. Many of the fixed fixtures, including bars, shelving, and custom seating, were designed specifically for the restaurant. These elements were crafted to enhance both functionality and aesthetics, aligning with the overall design theme of harmonizing old and new.
To address the acoustic challenges and ensure an optimal experience for guests, Soft Cells acoustic panels by Kvadrat were implemented throughout key areas, including the restaurant, lounge bar, event venues, and lounges on the second floor.
Decorative lighting was carefully selected to complement the interiors. Fixtures from Nuura echo Nordic nature with their elegant simplicity, while Bocci’s cloud-like forms provide a contemporary contrast, enhancing the organic flow of the spaces.
Fløirestauranten’s transformation exemplifies how the thoughtful integration of history, sustainability, and modern design can create a space that feels both timeless and fresh. By blending iconic Scandinavian design with bespoke elements and restored legacy pieces, the restaurant offers a
unique experience that celebrates Bergen’s cultural heritage while setting a new standard for excellence.
Team:
Designers: Sol Design
Architecture: Paal J. Kahrs Arkitekter
Photographer: Tom Haga
Materials Used:
Furniture: Please Wait to Be Seated. Gubi. Sol Design. Mater. Fredericia. Fritz Hansen. Louise Roe. Nuura. Bocci.
Structures: Multiconsult
Lighting: Sol Design/Expo Nova/Knut Knutsen
MEP: Anders O Grevstad
Electrical: Knut Knutsen
Mechanical: Multiconsult
Landscape: Boasson
