Besides the usual suspects (think Raffles Hotel and Fullerton Hotel), there are other stylish lodgings in Singapore that boast a rich heritage. Spend your holiday break hibernating in these stylishly restored accommodations that have retained certain elements of Singapore’s colonial past and celebrated our diverse cultural scene through innovative interior designs.
The recently launched boutique hotel, which was formerly the Joo Chiat Police Station, features uniquely Singaporean touches in every corner, from the Peranakan tiles in the lobby to the murals by local artists across its 131 rooms. 86 East Coast Road, tel: +65 6723 7001, prices start from $194/night. Make a reservation here
The boutique hotel in Chinatown comprises a cluster of shophouses built in 1929 (hence its name), and is decked out in vintage chic furnishings like mosaic-tiled floors and shuttered windows like on classic shophouse fronts. The best bit: Each of its 32 rooms’ designs are different, so you won’t know what to expect till you step in. 50 Keong Saik Road, tel: 6347-1929, prices start from $119/night. Make a reservation here
Located in the bustling cultural district of Little India, Hotel Vagabond is housed in a heritage 1950s Art Deco building and has surprisingly statement interiors (case in point: a larger-than-life brass rhino desk sits in the main lobby). Rooms are similarly plush, with rich floral-patterned cupboards and cushions and luxe Italian marble bathrooms in every space. And if you need further incentive, it’s currently offering complimentary a la carte breakfast with every booking. 39 Syed Alwi Road, tel: 6291-6677, prices start from $295/night. Make a reservation here
Built in 1926, this started out as the British Military Administration offices and later became the Fort Canning Country Club. Today, it’s a sprawling hotel nestled in Fort Canning Park. Rooms are kept modern and up-to-date with dark wood flooring and marble baths. 11 Caninng Walk, tel: 6559-6770, prices start from $275/night. Make a reservation here
Adventurous travellers who are willing to step out of the norm will dig staying here. Located in Little India, this whimsical hotel juxtaposes itself against the rich culture and bustling streets of the heritage district. Every floor is uniquely designed by award-winning Singapore design agencies Asylum, phunk studio and furious. 2 Dickson Road, tel: 6396 3322, prices start from $129/night. Make a reservation here.
These heritage pre-war shophouses have been reinvented to become a luxurious boutique hotel located in the heart of Singapore. However, it still retains design elements like its original timber-slated windows.14 Purvis Street, tel: 6643 9999, prices start from $82/night. Make a reservation here.
Decked out in a combination of contemporary furnishings and elements of heritage chic, this hotel ensures that every traveller gets to experience both Singapore pre- and post-21st century. Additionally, mini-figurine sculptures by local artist KY Huang pepper the entire hotel – see if you can spot them all. 55 Keong Saik Road, tel: 6922 9000, prices start from $119/night. Make a reservation here.
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