LUXE Loves is the regular feature where we spotlight our all-time favourite places in the world. From spiff boutique stays to the finest diners, dapper drinkers and swooniest shops… welcome to the crème of our curated cohort.
What:
The Warehouse Hotel
Where:
Robertson Quay, Singapore
Why We Love It:
Singapore’s restaurants are rated as among best in the world, but the hotel scene has been somewhat lagging, marked by bland chain names and sub-standard boutique hotels. Thankfully change is afoot, and the opening of handsome vintage-esque digs The Warehouse signifies a shift into accommodation that champions the city’s rich heritage, diverse food and home-grown design.
Occupying an old C.19th godown on the side of the river, The Warehouse’s icing-white exterior has been thoughtfully restored to retain its original features, while the stripped-back n’ lofty interior is all metal beams, bare-brick walls and industrial ceiling hangings. Rooms are modish charcoal-taupe hues with Euro furny minimally accented with textiles crafted by Singaporean maker Matter.
The peeps behind the hotel (Lo & Behold, owners of LUXE faves Odette and Tanjong Beach Club) are flying the Singaporean flag when it comes to the extras – minibar snacks and in-room toiletries are all sourced from local artisans, while esteemed mod-Singaporean pan-man and co-owner Willin Lo steers the single resto Po. Though some have balked at the idea of everyday dishes like popiah going upscale, the use of quality ingreds makes for delic, tastebud titillation. Come sundown, the cavernous lobby, replete with relaxed leather sofas, brass fittings and exposed lightbulbs transforms into a buzzy bar (powered by drink dons Proof & Co.) pulling in a low-key, chic crowd.
It’s city locale and absence of a spa or more leisurely lounge area – the pool is bitty and there’s only the one diner – means The Warehouse would feel limiting for long stays, but it’s perfect for a biz trip, weekend sleepover or staycation. With its respect for heritage, support of homegrown makers, friendly staff and effortless vibe, this is quite possibly the hotel Singapore has been waiting for.
320 Havelock Rd. +65 6828 0000. thewarehousehotel.com
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