I remember as if it was yesterday, standing on that pier in colonial Singapore, having just disembarked after a few weeks at sea. A sparse landscape lay before me - a church and a few impressive buildings of commerce - familiar Victorian architecture. It was slightly reminiscent of home in England, but for the palm trees and the oppressive heat. Horse and carts passed in the distance, and a rickshaw stood nearby waiting to transport me to my hotel accommodation, 15 Stamford Street, Oranje Building in European Town. I knew this to be an area dominated by residential houses and hotels servicing Singapore’s growing affluent European community.
The year was 1905. I was excited as I’d heard that Singapore was a bustling metropolis and a bastion of free trade and enterprise, with a busy port that provided a central connection for all corners of the British Empire. There was plenty of opportunity for pioneers of trade like me. Sent by my company’s flagship store in Calcutta, India, I’d come to join the newly opened Singapore branch of Whiteaways, Laidlaw & Co., one of the most illustrious names in the retail sector at the height of the British Empire. Whiteaways had recently moved into Oranje Building, a property especially commissioned for them by Stephens, Paul & Co.
On the approach down Stamford Road, I could see Oranje Building in the distance, a commanding structure with its magnificent white Victorian edifice that, even then, dominated the crossroads of Stamford Road and Hill Street and more than hinted at the luxury that lay within. The architectural work was familiar, that of Regent Alfred John Bidwell, renowned architect of the Raffles Hotel.
I remember arriving at the entrance to Whiteaway’s on the ground floor of the corner building. The two floors above housed an open-plan office and staff accommodation and the other
wing compromised five shophouses separately leased.
Whiteaways expanded at a frantic but not surprising pace, and within three years the store had moved to a larger location. With the company no longer leasing the upper stories, I was relocated to new lodgings still in European Town, so I have followed with interest the fate of my former lodgings over the years.
Two years after we moved out, the building’s Armenian owners leased the upper floors to Raffles Hotel as an annexe to solve the latter’s accommodation issues before renting the rooms out yet again as residential apartments three years later. It wasn’t until 1921 when Seth Paul, one of the owners, died that his brother, Thaddeus Paul, rented the building out yet again to the owners of Raffles Hotel, the Sarkie Brothers. But this time, they closed the building down and renovated it. The next I saw, it was reopened as The Grosvenor Hotel. But even though The Grosvenor Hotel ran as a separate entity from Raffles Hotel, it was still informally known to us locally as The Annexe or Raffles Annexe, as it had been before. Old habits die hard.
After 1926, when the Sarkie’s declining business meant they had to let go of the lease, we saw 15 Stamford Road go through yet another round of renovation to reopen as Stamford Hotel and Restaurant under the management of GM Gregory, a fellow who had previously worked at Raffles Hotel and the Grosvenor Hotel. But that arrangement did not last long. A year later it was taken over by Aseb Arathoon, and it became The Grosvenor Hotel once again. By this time, the building had fallen into disrepair. It was a sad state of affairs, so you can imagine my joy when I heard in 1933 that Seth Paul’s daughter, Clara van Hien, had taken over and was about to make substantial renovations. I was pleased to see the Oranje Hotel
open in 1934, especially as she had kept the original name of the building.
I left Singapore with my family in 1940 but I heard that Clara operated the hotel successfully until the Japanese occupation. After World War II, she converted the building into private apartments once again. This she ran successfully all the way till 1963, when she eventually sold to Basco Enterprises, who modernised the building and reopened it for commercial retail lease as Stamford House.
Through the years, as technology has improved communications, I’ve been able to follow events in Singapore with interest, and also get updates from my granddaughter who now works and lives there. It was touch and go for a while when I heard there were plans to demolish Stamford House to make way for road infrastructure improvements as the new MRT line was laid down. I was so relieved when the news came out that it had been earmarked for conservation. Now I can go to my grave knowing that whatever happens, my treasured 15 Stamford Road will be well looked after. Who knows, they may make a grand hotel of it once again. I think that’s what 15 Stamford Road was meant to be.
THE STORY OF A BELL, PINEAPPLE
AND RUM, A SAILORS’ HOME, AND A TIGER
The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore has a rich and chequered history that involves among others a bell, pineapple and rum, a sailors’ home and, yes, even a tiger. These characters are integral to the history of the site on which the hotel now stands and play such important roles in bringing the brand story of Hotel. Singapore’s Sailors’ Home was immortalised in three novels by renowned novelist Joseph Conrad.
of the time. Today the bell can be seen at the National Museum of Singapore. Of the 398 Revere bells cast, this is the only one found outside the USA.
Pineapple & rum and a sailors’ home
We are passionate about rum, as you will see from the vast collection brands on display in the rum boutique that leads to The Bar at 15 Stamford. But the connection goes much deeper. Rum has always been associated with sailors, and our location was, in the past, home to a sailors’ boarding house for over 30 years before the construction of the Capitol Theatre began.
A bell
Our bar staff ring the bell at The Bar at 15 Stamford every 8PM. This ritual is performed in tribute to an important part of the history of the site where the Capitol Building stands and its past residents: Joseph Balestier, the first US Consul to Singapore; and his wife Maria, daughter of American Civil War midnight rider Paul Revere, silversmith and manufacturer of the famed Liberty Bell. The couple’s home before they moved to the Balestier plantation was located on the very site on which the Capitol Building stands today.
Maria donated a Revere Bell to St Andrew’s Church (today’s St Andrew’s Cathedral, located across the road from the hotel). She had it shipped from Boston in 1843 on the condition that it was rung at 8pm every night for five minutes to remind sailors to head back to their ships before curfew and locals to clear the unsafe streets
We also take inspiration from the story of Joseph Balestier. While he served as the first US Consul to Singapore, he established a vast 89-hectare sugarcane plantation in a 405-hectare area of land he leased that is now known as the Balestier area of Singapore.
While the Balestier plantation was mostly dedicated to the growing of sugarcane to process sugar for trade, it also produced some notable by-products. Faced with barriers to trading sugar in some territories, Joseph used the sugarcane to distil rum as an additional source of income and also planted pineapples around the plantation boundaries to shore up the soil. Judging by an advertisement that was published in the newspapers of the time, the first rum batch went to market in 1840.
Sadly, the plantation crops eventually failed due to flooding from the monsoon rains. This was the final straw for Joseph, who had recently lost his wife, Maria, three short years after the death of their only son. Already in debt and unable to find a buyer for the plantation land, Joseph left Singapore in 1848 a broken man. While he briefly revisited the Far East in 1849 on consular duties, he returned to the US in 1851, remarried and remained in the US until his death in York, Pennsylvania in 1858, aged 70. We created our PLANTATION 1840 cocktail in Joseph Balestier’s honour.
A WARM WELCOME
It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to our heritage gem. Located in Singapore’s charming civic and cultural district, The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore is a restoration masterpiece that consists of two historic buildings, the Stamford House and Capitol Building.
We invite you to go on a fascinating journey through our heritage tour to discover the glorious past of these two iconic buildings, as well as the famed Capitol Theatre within the lifestyle complex of Capitol Singapore.
In addition, embark on a unique gastronomic experience with us, from sipping the signature Plantation 1840 at The Bar at 15 Stamford while learning about the rich story behind it, to tantalising your tastebuds with the new “Where the Land Meets the Sea” menu at 15 Stamford restaurant.
We wish you a delightful stay with us.
Andras Biro General Manager
WHERE THE LAND MEETS THE SEA
15 Stamford unveils the restaurant’s culinary masterpiece, Where The Land Meets The Sea menu. Combining the best of land and sea produce, this innovative menu encapsulates the essence of freshness and creativity, meticulously curated to deliver an unparalleled dining experience to guests.
Featuring over 50 exquisite dishes that showcase the team’s masterful blend of flavours and textures, Where The Land Meets The Sea is a gastronomic adventure that highlights and enhances the distinct flavours of every fresh ingredient. Signature dishes include succulent Tiger Prawn Cocktail with a tangy Marie Rose Sauce, House ColdSmoked King Salmon with salted lemon, fennel Pernod cream, compressed apple and fried capers, as well as the Pan-Fried Foie Gras, paired with banana textures, rum & raisins.
Mains include fresh seafood, premium cuts and dry aged beef – all grilled to perfection. Other not-to-be-missed items include the Char-grilled Wood Smoked Quail, the tender Braised Wagyu Beef Cheeks, and the Maine Lobster Pasta.
Vegetarian dishes such as Bomba Rice Casserole and Fried Cauliflower offer delightful flavours for a satisfying meal.
15 Stamford, Lobby Level
DID YOU KNOW A SIP FROM THE PAST
Stamford House was one of Regent Alfred John Bidwell’s masterpieces. He was not only the leading man and a partner in Swan & Maclaren, the most prestigious architectural practice in Singapore at the turn of the last 20th century, but also the most sought-after architect working in Singapore.
The building was built with a specific client in mindthe internationally renowned retail chain of Whiteaway, Laidlaw & Co, which was one of the most illustrious names in the retail business in the heyday of the British Empire. To much fanfare, the store opened their doors to the public at their stylish new premises of Stamford House as early as January 1905.
This year, we celebrate the 120th anniversary of Stamford House. As we reminisce about the remarkable story of the building, as well as the magnificent works in preserving and restoring the building, watch this space as we unveil a series of exciting events to commemorate this milestone.
Step into The Bar at 15 Stamford and embark on a journey into history here to discover the life of Joseph Balestier, the first US consul to Singapore and his wife, Maria Revere, the daughter of Boston Tea Party revolutionary and civil war midnight rider Paul Revere.
The signature Plantation 1840 cocktail is inspired by Joseph Balestier and his sugarcane plantation. Check with the team for the story behind the 20:00 ritual, where our bar staff ring the bell, as a tribute to the Balestiers.
The Bar at 15 Stamford, Lobby Level
GETTING AROUND THE RED DOT
Vintage Sidecar Tour
Feel the wind in your hair and journey down the charming Civic District with a 45-minute fun-filled ride on a vintage Vespa sidecar. Explore museums, memorials and parks of historical interest, as you marvel at some of the country’s most iconic attractions. Enjoy a refreshing cocktail at The Bar at 15 Stamford after the experience.
From S$280++ per person
Cocktail Masterclass
Look forward to an immersive experience in learning how to make the signature Plantation 1840 at The Bar at 15 Stamford.
From S$160++ for two persons
Singapore Food Journey
Foodie, here’s one for you! Singapore is a food haven and there’s so much to sample. Savour delicious local delicacies, from the quintessential chicken rice to unique Peranakan flavours, discover Singapore’s colourful culture and cuisine through your palate!
From S$215.31++ for two persons
LADY IN RED
Kempinski’s Ladies in Red are recognised for their remarkable elegance and personalised service embodying the brand’s signature European luxury hospitality. Now in its 14th year, the brand’s iconic ambassador continues to provide insightful expertise, with a particular focus on savoir vivre, culture, beauty and gourmet elements that make the luxury brand recognisable to every guest.
From assisting with dining reservations to recommending local attractions, our Lady in Red, in their striking uniform will be more than happy to assist with your enquiries to make your stay experience as seamless as it is memorable.
BOOK NOW @hellotessa @alifeofattraction
Char-grilled Wood Smoked Quail
Plantation 1840 Cocktail
SEVEN INSTRAGRAMMABLE PLACES WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE
What makes a stay at The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore all the more convenient is its close proximity to Singapore’s key business, leisure, shopping and tourism destinations.
Here are just a few that are within walking distance of the hotel. There is so much to do just at our doorstep that we recommend taking a few days at least to cover these cultural hotspots. But do explore beyond too. Singapore has more instagrammable moments to offer than you think.
Merlion Park
Just a stone’s throw away from the Hotel, the National Gallery Singapore, combining both the Former Supreme Court Building and City Hall, which are national monuments with significant roles in Singapore’s history, brings you the world’s largest public display of modern Southeast Asian art.
1 St Andrew’s Road Singapore 178957
Joseph Balestier’s plantation stretched to Kampong Glam, today the Muslim centre of Singapore. This quaint attraction is home to the impressive gold-domed Sultan Mosque, carpet and textile shops, and Middle Eastern cuisine. The area also boasts creative wall murals and boutique cocktail bars and restaurants. Bussorah Street is one of the most picturesque streets in Singapore, with its tiled pedestrian area, heritage architecture and palm trees, while Kandahar Street is home to some of the most beautifully restored elaborate shophouses in the city. The area also features the Malay Heritage Centre, with its nine galleries showcasing the history and culture of Singapore Malays.
The lampshades and cornices in our guest room are inspired by Singapore’s icon, the Merlion. The body of the statue, a fish, symbolises Singapore’s origins as a fishing village while the statue’s head represents the city’s original name of Singapura, which means lion city in Sanskrit. One Fullerton, Singapore 049213
This sprawling 101-hectare attraction is easily identifiable by its two huge tree-like structures that rise out of the greenery. These Supertrees are the Flower Dome and the Cloud Forest cooled conservatories, the world’s largest columnless greenhouse boasting over 160 species of plants. Make your way to The Skyway for unobstructed views of the surrounding providing you Insta-worthy shots at every corner. 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953.
5. Fort Canning Park
Bounded by Hill Street, Canning Rise, Clemenceau Avenue and River Valley Road, Fort Canning Park is an 18-hectare space packed with attractions from historical tours and nature walks to outdoor events on the lawn such as Shakespeare in the Park and Ballet Under the Stars. Discover too the Spice Garden, the ASEAN Sculpture Garden and Battle Box, a former underground military complex that was used in WWII. The park also houses the remnants of the cemetery where Maria Balestier and her son Revere were laid to rest. River Valley Road, Singapore 179037
6. Little India
Little India today is one of Singapore’s most vibrant districts. As you walk down Serangoon Road and neighbouring streets, explore the mix of Hindu and Chinese temples, mosques and churches and boutiques selling gold jewellery and silk saris. The 24-hour shopping mall Mustafa Centre offers everything from electronics to groceries. Close by is Sim Lim Square, a mecca for electronics that has a wide variety of electronic goods and services ranging from DVDs, cameras, phones, video cameras, and computer parts and servicing.
- Theatres on the Bay
Esplanade is Singapore’s national performing arts centre. Since its opening in 2002, it has presented more than 41,000 performances and activities, drawing an audience of 28 million patrons and 98 million visitors. This architectural icon, with its distinctive twin shells, houses world-class performance spaces complemented by a comprehensive range of professional support services. It is accessible from Arcade @ The Capitol Kempinski via the underground City Link Mall. 1 Esplanade Dr, Singapore 038981
National Gallery
CAPITOL THEATREIGNITING THE IMAGINATION OF A NATION
Since 1930, the Capitol Theatre has stood proud at the crossroads of Stamford Road and North Bridge Road as the beacon for Singapore’s movie-goers. Its painted billboard on the Capitol Building overlooking the busy crossroads used to announce the movie of the week and later the iconic pink and green column neon sign would serve to beckon passers-by into the hidden theatre entrance behind. Despite its closure in 1998, for over two decades, the Capitol Theatre continued to serve as a national landmark, so iconic was its presence and so loved it was in the hearts of Singaporeans for generations. Many first dates took place at the theatre and we are sure many married couples today look back on their dates at the Capitol Theatre with nostalgia. Renovated and reopened to provide theatre and event entertainment and movie magic to the next generations, there is a reason the Capitol Theatre continues to ignite the imagination of a nation. It has truly stood the test of time.
The Capitol Theatre Today
The theatre has been painstakingly restored to its former glory. It now plays host not only to movie screenings but theatrical productions, concerts and corporate events and celebrations. The latter are made possible due to the theatre’s incredible hydraulic seating system that allows sections of the seating to be raised or hidden underground at the flick of a switch. This allows the theatre flexibility in its floor arrangements to cater to any event. It can go from full theatre-style seating to an empty stall area in minutes.
The Capitol Theatre is available for corporate events and functions. Speak with our Events Team at meetings.singapore@kempinski.com about your requirements.
Mirza Mohamad Ali Namazie was a man of vision. In 1928, while many dismissed the world’s first “talkie’, The Jazz Singer, Namazie recognised that the silver screen had changed forever. He set out to build the Capitol Theatre to screen motion pictures with synchronised sound added by the Western Electric Company.
Namazie engaged architects Keys & Dowdeswell for the task, impressed with their distinctive architectural style - monumental neoclassicism cut with contemporary art deco decorative elements.
Namazie instructed the architects to design a mixed development that would include a four-storey L-shaped block with 16 shop units on the ground floor and 48 apartments above. This became Namazie Mansions and later Capitol Building. The Capitol Theatre was built as a separate structure tucked to the rear of the site with both buildings sharing the same entrance on the junction of North Bridge Road and Stamford Road. Unfortunately, Namazie died a year after the theatre was opened and it was the Fisher Brothers, pioneers of the Malayan cinema industry, who stepped in to keep operations going. The first theatre built for the “talkies”
Namazie insisted that everyone in the auditorium have unrestricted views of the stage so no columns could be installed to support the roof. This resulted in the architects creating a palatial auditorium that seated 1,600.
Nothing was spared for the interior décor and, with wider seats and the addition of the first version of air conditioning, the
Capitol Theatre was going to be the “coolest” in town in more than one sense of the word.
The rise of Capitol Building
newer shopping malls such as the nearby Raffles City.
Despite the government announcing a $10-million plan in the early 1990s to turn Stamford House into an upmarket shopping centre and a $11-million plan to make over Capitol Building and Capitol Theatre, the writing was on the wall for this once-loved icon. The Capitol Theatre showed its last movie in December 1998 and lay dormant for nearly two decades.
Regaining its glory
By the early 1980s, demand had moved to home video, followed in the early 1990s by the rise of modern multiplexes that showed multiple movies per week and reinvented the movie-going experience. The once vibrant area was now rundown, and pedestrians were gravitating to
In July 2007, the government announced that the three buildings had been gazetted for conservation and, in 2010, the Urban Redevelopment Authority put the plot up for public tender. The resulting proposals culminated in the eventual launch of The Capitol Kempinski Hotel in the Capitol Building and Stamford House locations; the glass-covered Arcade @ The Capitol Kempinski between the two with a parade of quaint cafés and restaurants, a modern shopping centre; and the iconic Capitol Theatre; all linked by convenient underground access to City Hall MRT station.
