Cover A peek at Amara Singapore’s newly refreshed space (Photo: Amara Singapore’s Deluxe Room)
A peek at Amara Singapore’s newly refreshed space (Photo: Amara Singapore’s Deluxe Room)
1 / 1
The legacy hotel’s new space blends old-word charm with modern sensibilities
October 2023 saw Amara Singapore begin comprehensive renovations to its hotel’s public spaces and guest rooms. Done in phases over the year, the comprehensive refurbishment, completed in collaboration with renowned hospitality design firm Studio HBA, a division of Hirsch Bedner Associates, aims to blend the hotel’s rich heritage with modern aesthetics.
The first phase of transformation has now been completed, and extensive upgrades have been made to its 389 rooms, lobby, and reimagined restaurants.
So, when we were offered the opportunity to stay at the legacy hotel, we jumped at the chance.
In case you missed it: Legacy Building: Amara Singapore’s third-generation owner Dawn Teo on continuing her family’s hospitality vision
First Impressions
Above Amara Singapore's lobby has been transformed
Above Amara Singapore's new lobby bar
Amara Singapore's lobby has been transformed
1 / 2
Amara Singapore’s latest redesign blends modernity with the hotel’s rich heritage—something we noticed as we stepped into the hotel lobby. Studio HBA transformed the lobby into a welcoming space, drawing inspiration from the neighbourhood’s spirited culture. For one, its previous large reception counter has been replaced with an inviting lobby bar. The redesigned lobby is also decked in earthy materials, light and dark timber laminates, and green accents which continue into each room.
As we entered, we were swiftly welcomed by friendly staff and checked in before being led to our room.
Do Not Disturb
Above Amara Singapore's Signature Club Room
Amara Singapore's Signature Club Room
1 / 1
Rooms and suites have been redesigned to meet the evolving needs of the modern traveller while also drawing inspiration from the hotel’s vibrant surroundings. For example, bathrooms feature handmade porcelain tiles similar to those found in traditional shophouses along Tanjong Pagar.
We were treated to the Club Room located on the highest floor of the hotel. The spacious area is complete with luxury bathroom amenities, filtered drinking water tap, plush bedding and more. The room’s character and personality can be seen through small touches like the curated lamps that evoke the quiet elegance of Chinese calligraphy that’s found throughout the Chinatown Historic District.
Read more: Hotel review: Inside the newly transformed Mandarin Oriental Singapore
We also noticed the hotel’s eco-friendly efforts within the room. For one, the room comes with an energy-efficient air-conditioning system and motion sensor lighting while an in-room filtered water tap system provides us with fresh drinking water.
Speaking of sustainability, the hotel has also achieved the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) certification, highlighting the hotel’s commitment to sustainable tourism.
The Extras
Above The Intan experience hosted by Alvin Yapp
Above The Intan Peranakan House Heritage Tour
The Intan experience hosted by Alvin Yapp
1 / 2
Amara Singapore offers a range of heritage experiences to immerse its guests in Singapore’s rich culture. One of its experiences is The Intan Peranakan House Heritage Tour, which we joined. The tour was hosted by the owner and curator of Singapore’s first home museum Alvin Yapp, who took us around The Intan while sharing the rich heritage and traditions of Peranakans. The museum’s collection is extensive with each item having a story to tell, from its many pairs of beaded slippers to the Peranakan chanaps (gilt-lacquered wood offering box). The tour ends with a kueh and tea session and a live piano performance.
In addition to The Intan experience, the hotel offers the Tanjong Pagar: A Walk Through Time, a popular experience where reformed ex-gang members take you around the neighbourhood as they share stories about the district. During the two-hour tour, get to explore hidden alleys of Chinatown and learn accounts of life underground. Gourmands can also opt for the Hands-On Culinary Experience where they get to learn the art of crafting traditional popiah rolls and brewing authentic local beverages.
Food & Drink
Above Cafe Oriental
Above Cafe Oriental's offerings
Cafe Oriental
1 / 2
The hotel pampers its guests with an extensive selection of restaurants and bars ranging from Thai fare at Thanying to Korean barbecue at Il Pum. We decided on Cafe Oriental located near the hotel lobby.
The cafe features a spacious and inviting ambience that’s designed to evoke the warmth of traditional hawker centres while incorporating modern design elements. Cafe Oriental celebrates Singapore’s rich culinary heritage and offers dishes like the juicy chicken satay with peanut sauce old school Hainanese pork chops and Sichuan preserved vegetable fish soup. We were also told that its oriental laksa istimewa is a popular choice, featuring thick rice vermicelli, spicy coconut gravy and jumbo prawns. Here, traditional desserts are given a modern twist, with creations like mango ice kacang bingsu, durian chendol bings and pulut hitam.
Tatler Tip
While there’s plenty to do within the hotel, don’t forget to explore the neighbourhood too. After all, the hotel is located in one of the most iconic neighbourhoods in Singapore. Check out 100AM and explore its many dining and lifestyle brands or explore the district’s traditional shophouses and cultural monuments.
Topics
Amanda Goh was the former senior writer for Tatler Singapore.
