The Nordic hotel group Strawberry has revealed its latest project: an exclusive lifestyle hotel housed in the historic Frenckell paper mill in Tampere. By transforming this heritage industrial site into a spectacular lifestyle hotel, a new, inclusive meeting place is born. Here, the boundaries between hotel, culture, and city life blur to offer both Tampere locals and international guests a truly unique experience.
Slated to welcome its first guests in 2028, the new hotel will be Strawberry’s very first in Tampere, joining the group’s portfolio of unique, independent hotels. Through a direct connection to Teatteri Frenckell, the hotel intertwines with the city’s cultural scene in a brand-new way, allowing guests to tailor their stays with everything from theatre performances to exclusive dinners and spa experiences.
Design with Soul, History, and a Forward-Looking Vision
The Finnish design agency Fyra has been awarded the prestigious commission to design the hotel’s 168 rooms and suites. The ambition is to create a character-filled identity deeply rooted in the industrial heritage of Tammerkoski. The vision is a warm, tactile experience where raw brick walls, solid materials, and artisanal details meet modern hospitality.
“We love buildings with soul! In Tampere, we are going to prove that the new luxury isn’t about gold and marble, but about energy, culture, and people coming together. Frenckell won’t just be a hotel; it will be a beating heart in the city that belongs to everyone.” Petter Stordalen, founder of Strawberry.
The property owner, Aare Invest, shares Strawberry’s ambition to create something truly exceptional for Tampere and sees the project as a significant milestone in the long-term development of the historic Frenckell area.
“Frenckell is one of Tampere’s most remarkable and iconic buildings. From the moment we had the opportunity to start developing it, it was clear to us that this could never be an ordinary real estate development project. Our ambition is to preserve the history and soul of the building while opening it up more fully to the people of Tampere and bringing new life to this unique location. Strawberry is exactly the right partner for that vision. I believe that once completed, Frenckell will become one of Tampere’s most exciting destinations for hospitality, restaurants, culture and city life.” Marko Kuusisto, Aare Invest
A Vibrant Living Room – From Morning Co-working to Evening DJ Sets
The absolute hub of the hotel will be the 400-square-metre social lobby. Designed as the city’s new living room, it will be a dynamic space where the reception, bar, lounge, co-working area, and a curated boutique merge seamlessly. As dusk falls, the energy builds, transforming the lobby into a vibrant arena for DJ sets, live music, and events.
The culinary scene is anchored by two restaurants with distinct profiles: a vibrant destination restaurant and a more relaxed concept. During the warmer months, social life moves outdoors to an impressive 1,400-square-metre courtyard, creating a major new open-air destination in the heart of Tampere. Open from morning until late at night, the courtyard will welcome hotel guests, office neighbours, local residents, and visitors alike.
For those looking to unwind or recharge, the hotel offers an expansive 600-square-metre Spa & Wellness department, complete with a gym, saunas, and treatment rooms. Additionally, the venue houses 800 square metres of flexible meeting and event spaces, tailored for everything from creative workshops and board meetings to movie screenings and grand celebrations.
Facts: Frenckell Hotel
Number of rooms: 168 hotel rooms and suites with a unique character.
Social lobby & bar: A 400 sqm meeting place featuring co-working spaces, a bar, and a live stage.
Food & beverage: Two unique restaurant concepts and a vibrant 1,400 sqm courtyard designed as a major social and dining destination.
Spa & Wellness: Over 600 sqm equipped with a gym, saunas, and treatment rooms.
Meetings & Events: 800 sqm of flexible spaces for all types of arrangements.
Cultural connection: Direct, seamless access to Teatteri Frenckell.
Property owner: Aare Invest
Planned opening: During 2028.
