The Review: Andaz Singapore

Andaz Singapore opened its doors in November, marking the brand’s Southeast Asia debut. True to style, the hotel serves up a hyper-local experience with native Singaporean touches throughout—from locally brewed pale ale, to the colourful staff uniforms (which are sourced from home-grown fashion brand, In Good Company).

With renowned architect and interior designer, André Fu, at the helm, the hotel pays homage to the surrounding Kampong Glam and Little India neighbourhoods—albeit with a modern twist. Think light, bright rooms with pops of colour, hanging ferns and rich leather and copper finishes.

And in true Fu style, the hotel’s public areas are cleverly divided into a collection of intimate spaces, mimicking the vibrant laneways below. This maze-like quality encourages guests to explore. And those with a sense of discovery are duly rewarded.

Rooms
The journey continues into the 342 guest rooms, which feature custom-designed light fixtures and a complimentary mini-bar filled with local treats.

Rooms are spacious and airy, with floor-to-ceiling windows that capture stunning views of the Singapore skyline. There is a homely, fluid nature to the sleeping quarters, which continues through the public areas.

Event space
Four residential-style event venues also adopt Fu’s streetscape vision, so meeting delegates can ‘meander’ down narrow hallways that miraculously open into dramatic, light-filled ballrooms.

The real showstopper is The Glasshouse ballroom, which is encapsulated by shimmering glass walls and topped with contemporary chandeliers. The 540-sqm Glasshouse can entertain 320 for banquets and opens onto a large pre-function foyer.

Two meeting rooms can utilised for small gatherings, while Garden Studio seats 120 for banquets. The advantage of this space is the adjoining outdoor terrace, which can be used for BBQ or cocktail events.

The Glasshouse ballroom

F&B
Perched on the 25th floor, five all-day dining options are uniquely designed as individual shophouses. Icehaus serves cold plates like beef tartare and shaved-ice desserts; Auntie’s Wok and Steam serves noodles and dim sum; and Smoke & Pepper is all about grilled meat with an Asian twist. There are two bars, including the super chic Sunroom, which serves free flow wine and beer to hotel guests during happy hour.

Meanwhile, premium steaks and brasserie fare can be found at 665°F steakhouse; and Pandan bakery serves tea-time treats. Rooftop bar Mr Stork offers local brew and botanical cocktails with a killer view.

Surrounds
Andaz Singapore is housed within DUO, a mixed-use precinct that includes residential and office space across two striking towers. The development is fairly new, with dining options and ground-level shops still to open, but Bugis Street, Haji Lane and the buzzing Arab Quarter are just a few steps away and offer a myriad of shops, restaurants and bars.

DUO is directly connected to Bugis MRT station, while Marina Bay and Suntec City Convention Centre are also nearby.