
Sustainability
We are constantly taking new steps to reduce our environmental impact and have selected a number of specific focus areas that we are working towards in order to contribute to a more sustainable future.
Here are some environmental issues we are focusing on now and in the future at Kronen Gaard:
Reducing food waste
In the summer of 2017, the Norwegian government and food industry committed to halving food waste by 2030. Kronen Gaard proudly signed this historic agreement and has since implemented several measures to reduce food waste in our restaurant and kitchen.
One key initiative introduced in 2022 is bokashi composting—a method that ferments food waste into nutrient-rich soil and fertilizer within weeks. Food scraps from our kitchen are fermented in bokashi bins, and the resulting compost is used by our gardener to cultivate home-grown vegetables. It’s a perfect, sustainable cycle.
Locally sourced food
Laura Wathne, sister of Gabriel Wathne who built Kronen Gaard Hotel, was a prominent figure in Norwegian culinary history. Known as the Ingrid Espelid Hovig of her era, she authored a popular economical cookbook in 1927 that has been widely used in households across Norway. Her legacy inspires us to uphold her generation’s values by offering local, homemade, and sustainable food that celebrates the seasons.
At Kronen Gaard Hotel, we’re lucky to be nestled in the heart of Rogaland—one of Norway’s richest food regions. We’re surrounded by passionate producers who supply us with top-quality ingredients. Our chefs craft seasonal menus that celebrate these local flavors, supporting our neighbors and helping to reduce environmental impact by cutting down on food transport.
Thoughtful Use of Materials
Natural materials like Sandnes stone, wood, and brick create the signature look and feel of Kronen Gaard Hotel. Many of our furnishings are heirlooms, lovingly restored and donated by local residents.
A special part of our story is the Block Watne family. Gabriel Wathne, who built the original house, lived in Langgata—where the slate now used in our garden once paved the streets. His grandson, Gunnar Block Watne, designed and built furniture for the home, now found in our Block Watne Suite and in the stately Kongestolene (King’s chair) by the Kronesalen (Crown Hall).
Local collaborations
The opening of our Orangery in the summer of 2023 marked a new chapter in the evolution of Kronen Gaard. It is the first step in our broader vision for thoughtful expansion.
We believe in working with local experts — from architects and builders to electricians and plumbers — who not only bring skill and dedication, but also consider the environment in every step of their work. Together, we’re growing Kronen Gaard with care and purpose.

Environmental certification
Kronen Gaard is proud to be an environmentally certified organization. This means we meet strict requirements for sustainable operations — from waste management and energy use to purchasing, transportation, and the working environment.
Our certification is not just a badge — it’s a commitment. We continually document, report, and improve our efforts to reduce our environmental footprint and operate in harmony with nature.
We are committed to contributing as best we can to a better and more sustainable environment so that we can continue to do what we love for many generations to come.