Raffles Singapore undergoes restoration
Raffles Singapore has reopened its doors following a careful and sensitive three-phased restoration, which began in February 2017. A flagship property within Accor’s growing portfolio, the iconic hotel has heralded a new chapter in its rich history and heritage.
“There are few hotels in the world whose names have become virtually synonymous with the cities in which they are located – and none more so than the Raffles Hotel in Singapore. The newly restored Raffles will provide an experience like no other,” says Christian Westbeld, General Manager, Raffles Singapore. “It is our wish and desire that our guests will continue to create treasured memories at the hotel, while rediscovering what makes it so special – the distinctive architecture, heritage and legendary service.”
The restoration, led by acclaimed interior designer Alexandra Champalimaud, was also supported by global architecture and design firm Aedas. Together, the designers created new suite categories, lifestyle experiences and exclusive dining concepts. Amongst the nine distinct suite categories are the State Room Suites, Courtyard Suites, Palm Court Suites, Personality Suites, Residence Suites, Promenade Suites, Grand Hotel Suites and Presidential Suites. The Residence, Promenade and Studio suites are the three latest additions to the hotel’s existing line-up, and take the total suite count from 103 to 115.
Jeannette Ho, Vice President, Raffles Brand and Strategic Relationships, Raffles Hotels and Resorts, comments: “We are very pleased to be part of the reopening of the iconic Raffles Singapore officially returning to the city, refreshed, reimagined and revitalised. This is where it all started and faithful to its roots, Raffles Singapore reinvents emotional luxury. As the hotel concludes its restoration and embarks on the next chapter, the return of this flagship property to Raffles Hotels & Resorts paves the way for the expansion of the brand as we deliver this same level of unparalleled service and sublime experiences to new destinations in cities such as Udaipur, London and Boston.”
Elsewhere, The Raffles Arcade has been newly outfitted with a Raffles Boutique and various bespoke retail brands, while the hotel’s F&B programme features restaurant collaborations with Chef Anne-Sophie Pic of the three-Michelin star Maison Pic in Valence, France; venerable French Master Chef Alain Ducasse; and Chef Jereme Leung, known for his innovative Chinese cooking. At the renovated Long Bar, travellers will continue to enjoy the hotel’s most famous cocktail, the Singapore Sling, along with the timeless tradition of tossing peanut shells on the floor.
Westbeld adds: “Raffles Singapore is one of the few remaining great 19th century hotels in the world and its restoration has been carefully designed to preserve its unique historic charm, while creating extraordinary experiences for our esteemed guests – a dedicated commitment from all of us at Raffles Singapore and also from our owner, Katara Hospitality.”
First opened in 1887, and declared a National Monument a century later by the Singapore Government, Raffles Singapore has through the years gained both local and international recognition as an oasis for the well-travelled. It is a national treasure among Singaporeans, who deeply value its historical significance and unique heritage. The last restoration was conducted from 1989 to 1991, when the hotel closed for two and a half years.
