Luxury property, Raffles Hotel Singapore managed under Raffles Hotels and Resorts and owned by Qatar based Katara Hospitality has announced that it will embark on an extensive restoration programme which will take place over three phases.
Phase One of the programme will begin in January 2017 and see the Raffles Hotel Arcade undergo restoration works while other areas of the property operate as normal. The Raffles Hotel Arcade houses 40 regional and specialty shops, indoor and outdoor function areas including The Ballroom and The Lawn and a variety of restaurants and bars including well-known Long Bar, home of the iconic Singapore Sling.
Phase Two will begin in mid 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 Hotel Singapore will close for the final phase near the end of 2017 before a grand reopening in the second quarter of 2018.
“Raffles Hotel 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 Diana Banks, Vice President, Raffles Brand, Raffles Hotels and Resorts.
The restoration project will be 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 will be 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.
Declared a National Monument by the Singapore Government in 1987, Raffles Hotel 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 Hotel Singapore is considered a national treasure among Singaporeans who deeply value its historical significance and unique heritage.
“We are pleased to embark on the meticulous restoration of Raffles Hotel 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.