M SOCIAL SINGAPORE
Situated along the Singapore River, M Social Singapore is the much-awaited hotel conceptualised by French designer Philippe Starck – his second in the city after The South Beach opened last year. And in true Starck fashion, his signature touch can be seen all over the place, from the statement sculptures at the entrance to the lobby with coloured glass and patterned tiles, the asymmetrical interiors, and an abundance of sleek metallics.
Offering something a little different from the rest, it’s designed to cater to tech-savvy millennial globetrotters. Unique touches include self check-in kiosks dotted around the place, and guests being armed with smartphones pre-loaded with city guides (which can also be used as a portable Wifi device when out and about).
The 293 rooms are a mix of duplex-style lofts, and for those with terraces overlooking Robertson Quay, the four metre-high alcove ceilings lend an element of drama. And with names like The Nice Room, The Nicer Room, the Big Room and The Bigger Room, picking one won’t be a hard decision.
The hotel’s restaurant bar Beasts & Butterflies features eight chandeliers that function as projectors, flashing psychedelic images through the light fixtures while a collection of tablets hang on the wall showing images of the fusion food on offer. 90 Robertson Quay, tel: 6206-1888
HOTEL INDIGO KATONG
Housed in the former Joo Chiat Police Station, this new boutique hotel has incorporated the colourful Peranakan charm of the area in its offbeat design. First launched in 2004, Hotel Indigo is one of the InterContinental Group’s quirkier brands (there’s already one in downtown Bangkok on Wireless Road, and plans to open the next in Seminyak later in the year).
Its latest boutique hotel has been treated as an extension of the neighbourhood and includes a mosaic feature wall of Peranakan ceramic plates in the lobby, and even a “mama stall” to display local crafts – the idea came from the stands found at the back of housing estates in the ‘60s.
The 131 rooms, all of which are inspired by the structure of traditional local houses, are decked out in bright tiles and furnishings and feature murals by local artists depicting lively street scenes. The spa-like bathrooms feature aromatherapeutic toiletries from Biology Smart Skincare. A big plus: The large rooftop pool boasting views across Singapore’s skyline.
The Peranakan link extends to gastronomy, too: the hotel’s main eatery is Baba Chews, which serves food inspired by the Straits of Malacca. 86 East Coast Road, tel: 9027-4197
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