The hotel is housed in buildings dating back to 1885, designed by Finnish architect Evert Lagerspetz as military offices, clubs, and residential quarters for high-ranking officials and their families, and later served as Finnish ministerial offices.
The historically significant buildings in the Neo-Renaissance style are under the protection of the Finnish Monument Protection Agency. Developer Samla Capital acquired the property in 2020 with the vision of transforming it into a premium hotel and offering true luxury experiences. Helsinki-based architectural firm Avarc Architects Oy was tasked with meticulous historical preservation while breathing new life into the buildings.
The name “Maria” was chosen because the hotel is inspired by the Danish princess and Russian Empress Maria Feodorovna, a symbol of grace, beauty and intelligence. The interior of the main building, located on Mariankatu (Maria Street), is characterized by feminine and light color schemes. Interior designer Jana Sasko explains: “We wanted to create an elegant and timeless atmosphere, with ivory, beige, taupe, as well as touches of black, brass, gold and silver, which are often used in classic women’s clothing and jewellery, as well as classic interior design.”
One focus of the hotel is on wellness experiences for guests. Finland’s respected sauna culture is reflected in this.
Each guest bathroom is a private sanctuary that offers a spa-like experience, with marble-tiled rooms, mostly with large soaking tubs, steam showers, and in many suites, private saunas.
The Maria Spa offers a large Finnish sauna, steam room, cold and hot water pools, a hot tub and four treatment rooms to provide both familiar and new pampering and rejuvenating spa experiences for both Finnish and international guests.
The entire hotel experience is defined by tranquility, elegance and an emphasis on well-being.
