Singapore’s newest heritage hotel has opened doors and it's been long overdue. A peek at what’s been hiding inside…
‘Tis the season of new hotels in Singapore. ICYMI, staycay worthy hotels like Six Senses Maxwell, The Village Hotel, The Outpost Hotel and others are launching soon. And starting the party is The Capitol Kempinski… finally! We’ve been waiting to set foot inside those eclectic neoclassical buildings for while now. Here’s a look-see at Singapore’s newest five-star heritage hotel…
Let’s rewind a little
Care for a quick flashback? The Patina Capitol was all set to open doors back in 2015. It was ready as can be – fully-staffed with the last pillow fluffed to perfection. But stuff happened (see: court case) and the much-awaited hotel stayed closed for three long years. Until this October when it opened doors under the Kempinski banner.
Meet The Capitol Kempinski Hotel
Housed within The Capitol Building (1930) and Stamford House (1904), two heritage structures that have been meticulously restored, is Singapore’s newest five-star hotel. Right into the middle of the city, it’s got 157 guest rooms and suites with baths as big as the bedroom. Yas, you heard us! It’s one of the roomiest bathrooms cityside with a mirror that turns into a TV.
We love that The Patina’s original interior decor was untouched. Why wouldn’t it be? It was celebrated designer Jaya Ibrahim’s last project before he passed on.
And despite seeing the light of day three years too late, it’s a timeless sight. Think art deco x Victorian aesthetics meets modern-day luxury. Like Gatsby era gorg with a contemporary grandeur.
It’s poetry – dark wood, coloured marbles, metal inlays (in the most unexpected places), textured walls, high ceilings, plush leather seats, grand arches and perfect geometry that will momentarily make your time travel.
Did we almost forget to mention the Merlion? No there isn’t one inside The Capitol Kempinski but there are subtle patterns that callback to the symbol on cornices, lamps and wall features.
There’s a lot to take in but if look closely, you just might find subtle hints of luxury hiding in plain sight.
There’s no ignoring the history of this space either – it calls out as you turn every other corner. Like the original wooden bannisters from way back when, grand arches that act as timestamps and large grid window panes filling the space with light and shadow.
Did you know?
We’ll have to wait till December for its three-starred Michelin chef to take over the signature restaurant.
In the meanwhile, the elegant bar with stool from our dreams is serving up tipples, as is the long yet lovely lounge built for intense conversations over afternoon tea. Oh, and 24-hour check-in which, if you ask us, a major plus!
The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore, 15 Stamford Rd, 01, Singapore 178906
