Raffles SINGAPORE Champalimaud Design leads the refurbishment of a Singapore institution, reimagining the iconic property through a contemporary lens. Words: Catherine Martin • Photography: Courtesy of Raffles Singapore
I
t’s rare that a hotel has such legendary status that it becomes so closely associated with a nation’s identity. Yet for Raffles Singapore, that’s undoubtedly the case. Declared
a national monument in 1987, it holds a special place in the hearts of locals, and is a tourist attraction in its own right, enticing diners, shoppers and passers-by stopping to appreciate such a fine example of colonial architecture. Raffles began life as a 10-room guesthouse, and over the years has been expanded and enhanced; the Palm Court wing was added in 1894, soon followed by the Bras Basah wing; and in 1899 the now familiar main building was completed, marking the beginning of its heyday. Royalty, dignitaries, writers and entertainers have all walked the corridors, but perhaps more remarkable are those who service the guests day-in day-out. In its entire existence, Raffles Singapore has had just 12 general managers, while the longest serving employee – racking up 47 years – is now resident historian with plenty of tales to tell. In 1989, Raffles embarked on a refurbishment to restore the look of the 1910s; and then in 2016, the hotel announced a sensitive three-phased restoration programme as part of the brand’s constant evolution to remain distinctive and relevant. What has remained throughout is the ambience, service, heritage and charm for which Raffles is known. Even when the doors were closed, it kept up appearances; a temporary gift shop was set up in one of the arcade outlets, where the famous doormen were on hand for photo opportunities, and construction hoardings were designed to continue the story, decorated with a series of illustrations created by branding agency Latitude.
062
