Restoration has begun on 13th February 2017 over three phases
(GCC, 21st February 2017): Raffles Singapore, the iconic luxury property managed under the award-winning international hospitality group, Raffles Hotels & Resorts, has embarked on a careful and sensitive restoration programme. The restoration of this acclaimed heritage hotel, owned by Katara Hospitality, a globally recognised hospitality owner, developer and operator, will be conducted over three phases to ensure every detail of the programme is approached with careful consideration.
Phase One of the programme began 13th February 2017 which saw the Raffles Hotel Arcade which housed retail stores, specialty shops and dining venues including Ah Teng’s Bakery, Raffles Courtyard, Long Bar Steakhouse and well-known Long Bar, undergo restoration works while other areas of the property operate as normal. During this first phase, Raffles Singapore will present a selection of alternative dining experiences within its property to ensure that guests will continue to enjoy a seamless Raffles experience.
All suites at Raffles Singapore remain available and other dining establishments including Tiffin Room, Raffles Grill, Writers Bar and Bar & Billiard Room will also continue to be available to guests. With Long Bar closed for restoration, the Singapore Sling will be available at the Bar & Billiard Room with effect from 19th February 2017 and throughout Phase Two of the restoration programme. Guests can continue to enjoy the Singapore Sling experience, complete with the well-loved tradition of brushing their peanut shells onto the floor.
Phase Two will begin in the third quarter of 2017 when restoration efforts will commence on the main hotel building and Lobby as well as a portion of the hotel suites. Following that, Raffles Singapore will close for the final phase near the end of 2017 before a grand reopening in the middle of 2018.
“Raffles Singapore has always evolved to stay distinctive and relevant, moving with the times and adapting to the changing needs of today’s traveller. We have a rich and colourful history and are about to begin a new chapter in our ongoing story – a sensitive restoration that will enable us to continue to offer what our guests expect and value,” said Ms. Diana Banks, Vice President, Raffles Brand, Raffles Hotels and Resorts.
The restoration project is led by Aedas Singapore, a leading global architecture and design firm who was behind restoration projects including the London Coliseum and the revitalised Mallory Street/Burrows Street in Wan Chai, Hong Kong. The interiors of the project is handled by award-winning designer Alexandra Champalimaud who has worked with many high profile luxury hotels around the world including New York’s The Plaza, Hotel Bel-Air in Los Angeles, The Dorchester in London and the Waldorf Astoria in New York.
“This restoration is designed to ensure that we retain what is so special about Raffles Singapore – the ambiance, the service, the charm and the heritage of the hotel. We have always changed and evolved to keep in step with the needs and expectations of our guests - this has been one of the secrets of our success for more than a century. This extraordinary undertaking will also reimagine the facilities, spaces and experiences within the hotel to delight the well-travelled and the community. By introducing new experiences for our guests while respecting the history and heritage of the hotel, we want to ensure that this hotel continues to be at the epicenter of Singapore’s social and cultural scene,” added Mr. Simon Hirst, General Manager, Raffles Hotel Singapore.
Declared a National Monument by the Singapore Government in 1987, Raffles Singapore has through the years, gained both local and international recognition as an oasis for the well-travelled with its unique blend of classical architecture and tropical garden setting. Raffles Singapore is considered a national treasure among Singaporeans who deeply value its historical significance and unique heritage.
The last restoration was conducted from 1989 to 1991 where the hotel closed for two and a half years. The luxury hotel has 103 individually designed suites – 84 Courtyard and Palm Court Suites, 12 Personality Suites, 5 Grand Hotel Suites and 2 Presidential Suites.
“We are pleased to embark on the meticulous restoration of Raffles Singapore, a distinctive hotel that is emblematic of Katara Hospitality’s commitment to creating extraordinary experiences on the backdrop of iconic heritage hotels and unsurpassed service to our esteemed guests,” said Mr. Hamad Abdulla Al-Mulla, Chief Executive Officer of Katara Hospitality.
“Since opening its doors in 1887, Raffles Singapore has maintained a lasting legacy as a landmark hotel, hosting some of the world’s most famous and elite personalities. As a National Monument of Singapore and one of the few remaining 19th century hotels in the world, the hotel’s restoration is a testament to our continued pursuit in preserving portraits of historic charm, while growing Katara Hospitality’s portfolio of iconic properties in key travel destinations. Raffles Singapore is no exception, with its carefully implemented restoration programme that is poised to unveil contemporary charm and elegance; reminiscent of the luxurious splendour of Katara Hospitality hotels,” added Mr. Al-Mulla.
