It is almost impossible to miss the towering development that has emerged in the heart of Singapore’s convention hub. Not only is it visually stunning on the outside, the South Beach hotel which opened its doors on September 3 as part of a preview phase is artistic, stylish and lively on the inside.
That’s no surprise, considering the big names behind the hotel’s design: Philippe Starck, Foster + Partners and Aedas.
All 654 guestrooms and suites are large and well furnished with Philippe Starck’s quirky yet functional furniture pieces. We love the secure ladies-only floor with rooms that come with splashes of pink and feminine touches. Female travellers will appreciate the extensive range of toiletries and female butler service.
The South Beach emphasises on imaginative social spaces, and the result is plenty of chic locations that allow hotel guests to connect with friends and business partners, or simply relax alone.
The two sky gardens on level 18 are a gem, offering a eclectic mix of designer couches, armchairs and stools for one to sit on and admire the breathtaking cityscape. Two infinity swimming pools and a gym complete the suite of facilities on this level.
The dining outlets are attractions themselves, each boasting a unique interior and character. The boldly named ADHD (All Day Hotel Dining) feeds guests all day in an elegant space, while Laugh excites with colourful prints and mishmash furniture. Both can support private events.
The hotel is part of the South Beach mixed-use development which incorporates heritage sites – three army blocks and the well-known Non-Commissioned Officers (NCO) Club – along with two new tower blocks. The 34-storey office tower is home to tenants such as Facebook and Expedia, while the second tower houses the hotel and the 190-apartment South Beach Residences, which will only be ready by 2Q2016.
There’s also a Court Martial Bar, set in one of the army blocks, and it draws on its court house history to serve concept drinks.
The second 1,200m2 army block – South Beach Quarter – will be home to four new F&B concepts by lifestyle group Massive Collection. These include Vanity, a cocktail bar; Vatos Urban Tacos, a Korean-Mexican restaurant; The Armoury, a gastropub with a wide range of craft beers and boutique wines; and a nightclub.
The South Beach’s grand ballroom, housed in the final army block, will cater to events such as corporate functions and weddings when completed.
