Tatler checks into KēSa House, an eclectic boutique hotel set in a tranquil heritage shophouse in Chinatown
Set in one of Singapore’s most dynamic enclaves, KēSa House is a boutique hotel that offers a getaway in the middle of the bustling and vibrant neighbourhood of Chinatown. The hotel is now part of Oakwood’s new concept, called The Unlimited Collection by Oakwood, which includes a line-up of other properties like Ann Siang House and Wanderlust.
Given the close proximity between the hotel and Tatler's office (aka the Tatler House Singapore), I decided to embark on a “workcation” at KēSa House—otherwise known as the other WFH, that is “working from hotel”.
Bleisure trips may be on hold right now but the pandemic has resulted in new travel phenomenons, such as workcations and even vaxications. With KēSa House’s shophouse charm, it seemed like a great place to work remotely whilst enjoying a much-needed change of scenery. Here’s the lowdown on my experience.
Related: Wanderlust: Hotel Staycation Review
First Impressions
Housed within the bustling stretch of heritage shophouses on Keong Saik Road, the turquoise and white facade of KēSa House is hard to miss. The structure has been carefully preserved to retain its rich history, with key elements such as the terracotta roof tiles and ornamental windows adding a dose of nostalgia.
While the exterior reflects its historic past, the interior of the hotel exudes a contemporary chic ambience. The reception area, which provides a taste of what to expect from the rooms, features tasteful wood panelling paired with warm atmospheric lighting and sleek brass touches.