The much-fêted The Warehouse Hotel celebrates its first birthday this month, and in its first year the 37-room boutique hotel has already become the place to see and be seen in Singapore. We check into the hotel everyone’s talking about in Singapore to see what all the buzz is about (and if it’s worth it).
Read also: 10 things not to do in Singapore
History & conservation converged
The Warehouse Hotel occupies a building that has been through many incarnations in its lifetime. The first was as a warehouse (naturally) in 1895, then an illicit distillery and an 80s disco. We love that the Warehouse has evolved with the times, embracing these past selves and paying tribute to them in the decor.
We instantly fell in love with the industrial style. The exposed brick walls, custom ‘pulley’ lighting and triple-pitched ceilings make the perfect frame for lazy afternoons whiled away with a classic cocktail on the plush lounge sets (and that IG shot).
Modern rooms, local touches
The rooms are beautifully designed and appointed, with nods to both the traditional and modern. Plush linens had a homey touch with an ikat throw, while Bang & Olufsen speakers serenaded our River View Room.
In the bathroom, we sloughed the day away with eco-certified Ashley & Co bath amenities, patting down with the fluffiest bath towels.
Our favourite elements in the room: the calming palette of wood-panelled floors and muted grey and green tones, reminiscent of a Japanese forest (yes, really), and the highly curated Minibar of Vice, themed according to Gluttony, Lust and Vanity and stocked with regionally crafted items.
Po & mo’
Po – short for popo or grandmother in Cantonese – is a marriage between Singaporean F&B group Lo & Behold and Singapore star chef Willin Low of Wild Rocket fame. We loved everything about this restaurant, from the elegant setting suffused with warm light, to the menu of updated, modernised local recipes and interesting, inventive wine and cocktail list.
This was also one of the best hotel breakfasts that we’d tried – the continental selections were fresh and well-presented, and the hot breakfast options of a traditional English fry-up or Bak Kut Teh were tip top.
Location, location, location
In our River View Room, we could pull back the curtains and instantly have a front row seat at the show. Robertson Quay is buzzing, but not manic. Joggers bob past, dogs walk their owners, and people whizz by on their segways post work (watch out!). Do check when you book, as not all room categories have windows.
The best part about the location: it’s walking distance from the CBD, Boat Quay and Clarke Quay, yet removed from the rush and crowd of those areas. We chose to spend our evenings exploring the bars and restaurants of Robertson Quay, retiring to the hotel bar for nightcaps with friends.
Love it or leave it
So does it warrant all the hype? We say yes!
If you don’t stay, at least visit for a meal or drink. This unique destination is special in many ways – and of course the commitment to heritage, conservation and elevating local partners is one to be lauded.
Looking for fun things to do in Singapore? Check out these 2018 events. But first, get your coffee fix… or maybe a glass of wine at these fancy wine bars.
