Hotel review: 21 Carpenter is a beautiful tribute to the property’s past as a former remittance house

Upon arrival, we were welcomed by a lobby adorned in warm tones and sleek wood accents, instantly creating a sense of home. The first thing that caught our eye was a captivating centrepiece, Readers and Writers #1, by Singaporean artist Heman Chong. We learned that this piece symbolises the diversity of human experiences and the shared wisdom within literature—a fitting introduction to the property’s artistic spirit.

Art is integrated throughout the hotel, with many pieces adorning public spaces. While checking in, we also admired a beautiful piece behind the counter by Lim Tze Peng titled Singapore River V, which captures the spirit of old Singapore.

The check-in process was swift and efficient. We soon found ourselves in the Heritage Balcony Suite, ready to unwind and enjoy the evening.

48 rooms and suites are available in the Urban and Heritage Wing—we were treated to a lavish suite in the latter. Its Heritage rooms and suites have been thoughtfully preserved and redrafted using Chengal timber salvaged from the original remittance house.

Our Heritage Balcony Suite was elegantly decked in neutral shades and featured a separate living area, wet bar and luxurious Smith & Co amenities. French doors open onto a private balcony adorned with plants and offer a view of Clarke Quay Central shopping mall.

Another beautiful nod to the property’s past can be found in the stunning art piece above the bedhead. We learnt that the large-scale handwritten calligraphy of the Chinese character 家 (which means home or family) has been divided into 48 sections, with each room holding a piece of the character. The thoughtful detail symbolises that every space in the property offers guests a piece of home.

While exploring the property, we found a lush garden terrace on the third floor, perfect for lounging after dinner. Admiring the aluminium facade of the Urban Wing, we found it laser cut with Chinese and English verses of vintage remittance letters. These letters were collected from the National Archives and were carefully handpicked before being etched along the facade.

There is no fitness centre within the property, but guests have complimentary access to the integrated wellness club Trapeze Rec Club in Tanjong Pagar. There, guests can partake in fitness and yoga classes before taking advantage of its sauna and hot plunge facilities.

The boutique hotel is home to Kee’s, a Neo-bistro and bar that offers European classics and Pan-Asian fare. In the mornings, an a la carte menu and buffet spread are available for guests—think chicken curry, avocado toast and homemade kaya toast. But, what impressed us most was its extensive lunch menu with plates such as the smashed bacon cheese burger, lamb shepherd’s pie and slow-braised beef cheek rendang.

When it came to drinks, the bar whips up tantalising cocktails paying homage to the property’s past. The Timeless Tipple, for one, blends Kee’s 1936 gin, Benedictine Dom, mirin, plum bitters and basil oil. Those looking for a spice kick can opt for the Spice & Sips, featuring Los Arcos Destilado de Agave, Aperol, passionfruit, chilli and spiced salt.

Like the rest of the property, Kee’s boasts stunning art pieces. We were particularly drawn to the Visions of Splendour by local artist and painter Khairulddin Wahab. Located right at the entrance of the bistro, the artwork explores how the island was transformed by colonisation.

From bars to museums, there’s plenty to explore around 21 Carpenter. Art enthusiasts can head to National Gallery Singapore or the Asian Civilisations Museum for a dose of art therapy. For a nightcap, head to the storied 28 Hong Kong Street for American-style cocktails. 

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