Some of you might remember another Stockholm hotel that went by the Lydmar name, a rowdy, almost painfully hip sort of place, where the focus was very much on the nightlife, and the revelers at times threatened to overwhelm the guests. Well, that was then, and this is now — around the turn of the new millennium that was what boutique hotels were about. Today, more and more, they’re focused on the traditional values of hospitality, and once again the new version of the Lydmar is exemplary. It’s fair to say that in terms of design, Stockholm tends to be a step ahead. By the time most of us figured out what “Scandinavian design” looked like, the Swedes had already moved on to the next thing. Look around Lydmar and you’ll see very little in the way of stark minimalism. These days Scandinavian designers are mining a rich history — there’s the odd mid-century modern chair or sofa, for example, but plenty more that’s traditional, almost rustic. At its best the new luxury hotel avoids ostentation whenever possible, and this one is no different — it’s quietly stylish, but more focused on quality materials and on fostering an intimate atmosphere. And though you won’t mistake it for a bar with a boardinghouse attached, the Lydmar does have plenty going on: there’s a smaller, more intimate music venue, as well as a restaurant and lounge that are destined to become local favorites. And you won’t have to look far to find it — the location is stellar, absolutely central, next to the Grand and right up against the Harbor and the old town.