Hotel Svala

17/07/2026

I had the honor of recording a Sommarprat this summer. Turning 50 this year, it felt like a significant moment to look back - at a childhood in New Mexico among adobe houses, lowriders and desert light, at a lucky 25 years in Chicago building worlds for theater, film and television, (and crafting horseshoe photo ops ) and the unexpected journey that led me to a small island in Åland’s most magical archipelago.

It’s a story about saying yes, even when it’s frightening. And it’s a love letter to the American friends who crossed an ocean to help us rescue a heritage building, and to the hardships that led to the most beautiful moments.

A Sommarprat is a beloved radio tradition: your life story, told between songs you’ve chosen. The music is part of the story - listen before August 3rd! (In Swedish )

https://alandsradio.ax/poddar/sage-reed-flyttade-fran-chicago-till-lilla-kumlinge-for-att-driva-hotell

04/06/2026

I grew up in New Mexico where the sky and sunsets are a thing of wonder. Though the magic of the shifting northern summer light is always a truly amazing experience!

22/02/2026

This spring, we welcome master broom maker Cynthia Main of sunhousecraft, traveling from her Kentucky studio to Åland for an immersive, small-scale workshop at Hotel Svala. With more than a decade devoted to traditional broom-making and woodworking, Cynthia brings refined craftsmanship, sustainability-rooted knowledge and a deep reverence for material to this special retreat.

Over several days, you’ll learn time-honored techniques, gather natural materials, and create your own hand-bound brooms in an intimate setting. The experience is complemented by an island excursion, thoughtful meals and evenings around the table- all framed by Svala’s distinctive design language. A considered convergence of craft, conversation, and place.

April 29th-May 3rd more detail in the link…

Join traditional craftsperson and broom maker Cynthia Main of Sunhouse Craft for an immersive Spring creative retreat celebrating crafting directly from the land, and enjoy curated stay at Hotel Svala, nestled in the serene Åland Islands.

18/08/2025

18/05/2025

Onni has been unwell, hopefully he’s now finally on the mend. Just in time to play in the grass all summer. We sure do love this little guy

22/04/2025

Pink radicchio salad with warm pecans, blood orange, fresh cheese and parsley. Birds are here and flowers are coming, a collective need for the summer green to nurture us.

25/12/2024

Önskar God Jul till våra kära vänner, gäster och grannar!!

23/11/2024

Winter light