Singapore’s hotel scene represents a perfect fusion of contemporary design, cultural heritage, and luxurious hospitality. From colonial-era architectural masterpieces to ultra-modern skyscrapers, these design hotels showcase the city-state’s commitment to architectural excellence and superior guest experiences.
1. Raffles Singapore
Raffles Singapore stands as an enduring symbol of colonial architecture and timeless luxury in the heart of the city. First opened in 1887, this iconic hotel underwent a meticulous restoration in 2019 that perfectly preserved its historical charm while introducing modern amenities.
The hotel’s distinctive white façade, topped with elegant cast-iron porches and high ceilings, represents the pinnacle of British colonial design. Each of its suites features polished teakwood floors, handcrafted furniture, and Oriental carpets that create an atmosphere of old-world sophistication. The hotel’s famous Long Bar, birthplace of the Singapore Sling, maintains its original rustic design with wooden fans and rattan furniture.
2. Capella Singapore
Nestled in 30 acres of lush rainforest on Sentosa Island, Capella Singapore masterfully blends colonial architecture with contemporary Asian design. The hotel occupies restored 1880s British colonial buildings, reimagined by renowned architect Norman Foster. Curved modern structures harmoniously connect the colonial buildings, creating a fluid architectural narrative between past and present.
The property’s rooms feature private plunge pools and panoramic views of the South China Sea. Interior spaces showcase an artful mix of Asian artifacts, contemporary artwork, and sophisticated furnishings that reflect Singapore’s multicultural heritage.
3. Marina Bay Sands
Marina Bay Sands represents an architectural marvel that has become synonymous with Singapore’s skyline. Designed by Moshe Safdie, this integrated resort features three 55-story towers crowned by the spectacular SkyPark, which spans 340 meters with its infinity pool. The hotel’s exterior design draws inspiration from card decks, creating a distinctive silhouette that’s instantly recognizable worldwide.
Inside, the rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows offering breathtaking views of the city or bay. The integration of art installations throughout the property, including works by renowned artists like Antony Gormley and Zheng Chongbin, adds to its design credentials.
4. Mandarin Oriental, Singapore
The Mandarin Oriental embodies sophisticated geometric design with its distinctive fan-shaped architecture. Architect John Portman created this masterpiece to maximize views of Marina Bay while maintaining an intimate atmosphere despite its grand scale.
The hotel’s interior design showcases a perfect blend of Oriental heritage and contemporary luxury, featuring rich woods, elegant marble, and subtle Asian design elements. Each of the rooms exhibits meticulous attention to detail, with carefully chosen artwork and custom-designed furniture. The hotel’s public spaces feature dramatic high ceilings, water features, and an impressive collection of contemporary Asian art.
5. The Clan Hotel Singapore
The Clan Hotel represents a bold new interpretation of Chinese heritage in modern luxury hospitality. This boutique property’s design narrative draws inspiration from Singapore’s clan associations and trading history. Dark woods, brass accents, and traditional Chinese motifs are thoughtfully integrated into a contemporary setting.
The hotel’s rooms feature custom artwork depicting scenes from Singapore’s trading past, while the lobby showcases an impressive collection of heritage artifacts. The QINN restaurant and bar space exemplifies the hotel’s design philosophy with its dramatic lighting and modern interpretation of traditional Chinese elements.
6. The Fullerton Hotel Singapore
Housed in Singapore’s former General Post Office, The Fullerton Hotel represents the pinnacle of neo-classical architecture. The building’s imposing Doric columns and cornices have been meticulously preserved, while interior spaces have been transformed into luxurious accommodations.
The hotel’s transformation maintained many original architectural features, including the magnificent atrium and lighthouse. The rooms feature a sophisticated palette of neutral tones that complement the building’s historical character. Strategic lighting highlights the building’s architectural details while creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
7. Dao by Dorsett AMTD Singapore
Dao by Dorsett represents contemporary Asian minimalism at its finest. This boutique hotel’s design concept revolves around the principles of Zen philosophy and modern urban living. The property features clean lines, natural materials, and a carefully curated color palette that creates a sense of tranquility.
Each of its rooms incorporates elements of biophilic design, bringing nature indoors through thoughtful plant selection and natural textures. The hotel’s common areas showcase contemporary Asian artwork and installations that reflect Singapore’s cultural diversity.
8. Shangri-La Singapore
Set within 15 acres of luxuriant botanical gardens, Shangri-La Singapore combines tropical paradise with sophisticated design. The hotel comprises three distinct wings, each with its own architectural character – from the contemporary Tower Wing to the resort-style Garden Wing and the exclusive Valley Wing. The recent renovation by design firm Aedas brought fresh contemporary elements while maintaining the hotel’s legendary Asian hospitality atmosphere.
The property features one of Asia’s finest private art collections, with over 500 pieces displayed throughout its public spaces. The hotel’s landscaped gardens, designed by Belt Collins, create a lush backdrop for the architectural elements.
9. Pullman Singapore Hill Street
The Pullman Singapore Hill Street occupies a brilliantly restored heritage building with a striking contemporary addition. The hotel’s design successfully marries Singapore’s colonial past with modern architectural elements.
Interior spaces feature a bold color palette and geometric patterns that pay homage to Singapore’s Peranakan heritage. The 350 rooms showcase custom-designed furniture and locally inspired artwork. The rooftop bar and pool area offers a masterclass in modern tropical design, with stunning views of the civic district.
10. Mondrian Singapore Duxton
The Mondrian Singapore Duxton brings avant-garde design to the historic Duxton Hill neighborhood. The hotel occupies several restored shophouses, with interiors designed by acclaimed studio Dimore Studio. The property features bold color choices, custom-designed furniture, and an eclectic mix of contemporary art installations.
Each of the rooms offers a unique design perspective, combining local cultural elements with international modern style. The rooftop pool and bar area showcases some of the hotel’s most dramatic design elements, with spectacular views of the city skyline.
Singapore’s design hotels represent the perfect marriage of form and function, where architectural innovation meets luxury hospitality. From colonial-era renovations to ultra-modern new builds, each property offers a unique perspective on design while maintaining the highest standards of service and comfort. These hotels not only provide exceptional accommodations but also serve as landmarks that showcase Singapore’s evolution from colonial port to global design destination.