Sprekenhus
– We want to be a generous host, sharing the very best Oslo has to offer. In Sprekenhus, we found a local brand that creates aesthetic, high-quality products. The story, the sleek design, and the people behind the brand are everything we’ve been looking for, says former hotel director Wilhelm Hartwig.
Grandfather Sprekenhus
At 21, while studying economics in London, Alexander Sprekenhus discovered the benefits of argan oil for skin and hair care. This marked the beginning of something rare—a beauty brand from Oslo, rooted in Lofoten and using ingredients from Morocco. Today, Sprekenhus is available at select retailers in Oslo, such as Høyer, Gathering Objects, and Yme, and has recently signed an agreement with the German online giant Zalando.
— When I returned from my studies, people started noticing my hair and asking what products I used. I wanted to share the experience and the look with others, so I decided to develop my own brand, he explains.
The young entrepreneur partnered with leading research and development experts in skincare and haircare to create the perfect formulas. At the same time, he built the Sprekenhus concept, inspired by his grandfather’s simple and healthy lifestyle—fresh air, physical activity, and plenty of rest—on the family farm in Lofoten.
The Berber Women
The exclusive argan oil found in all Sprekenhus products comes from argan trees in North Africa.
— The argan fruit is harvested and cold-pressed in Morocco. For generations, Berber women have used the oil to protect their skin and hair from the harsh environment. The climate can be extreme, with droughts, hot days, and cold nights. Today, argan oil production has also become an important local industry, Sprekenhus explains.
The oil is rich in vitamins A and E, as well as antioxidants that help reduce free radicals.
— Pollution, stress, and lack of sleep expose us to more free radicals than our bodies can neutralize. That’s why adding antioxidants to your routine is beneficial. Argan oil also helps minimize long-term skin damage caused by temperature fluctuations, sun exposure, and smoking.
A Space of Your Own
Beyond sharing the benefits of an incredible ingredient, Sprekenhus is about creating moments of calm and well-being.
— We want to inspire people to carve out a little space for themselves. Most of us live in an overwhelming world, constantly bombarded by technology demanding our attention. Taking just five minutes for a self-care ritual—washing your hands with a beautiful scent, applying lotion, and slowing down—can make a difference, says Alexander Sprekenhus.
Balance is at the core of the brand.
— Finding balance means avoiding extremes—whether in work, diet, or exercise. The same philosophy applies to how we develop our products and how we approach nature and sustainability.
— We use recyclable materials for our bottles and packaging. The brown bottles also protect the contents from UV light. From the start, we aligned with Amerikalinjen on using large refillable bottles in the rooms instead of small single-use hotel toiletries, reducing waste and unnecessary consumption.
A Global Connection
Alexander Sprekenhus is excited to introduce his products to Amerikalinjen’s guests.
— It has been a pleasure partnering with a hotel that puts so much thought and care into its concept. This collaboration gives us a platform we’ve never had before—a chance to let people from all over the world not just see but experience our products.
In the U.S., Sprekenhus has already built a dedicated following.
— A branch of my family emigrated to America over 50 years ago. I’m not sure if they traveled with Amerikalinjen, but it’s entirely possible. Now, I receive emails and orders from ‘Sprekenhusers’ in the U.S. who have discovered us online and absolutely love our products. It’s an incredible feeling.