THE FINER THINGS
From Singapore to Lake Como, indulge on life’s little luxury at these three newly opened hotels.
DUXTON RESERVE SINGAPORE, AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION
The debut of Autograph Collection Hotels in Singapore materialised in the 49-guestroom Duxton Reserve Singapore located in Tanjong Pagar. Built within eight restored 19th-century shophouses, it provides the perfect address from which to explore Chinatown and its neighbouring Michelin-starred restaurants and bars.
Designed by Anouska Hempel, the hotel is inspired by Singapore’s unique fusion of Chinese, Malay and European cultures. Glamorous black, gold and yellow hues dress the reception area, together with oriental screens and calligraphy wallpaper. Each room and suite is individually designed, featuring top-range amenities such as Naturalmat’s organic mattress, organic cotton bed linen by Beaumont & Brown, and bathroom amenities by Etro.
This Garcha Group’s property also offers two culinary highlights. Yellow Pot with its clean eating philosophy and Anouska’s, a curvaceous ode to Bond girl turned interior designer, Anouska Hempel herself.
GRAND HOTEL VICTORIA CONCEPT & SPA
This 19th century neoclassical villa by Lake Como has hosted countless families for memorable holidays for more than a century. Situated in the picturesque town of Menaggio, the R Collection Hotels recently reopened as part of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, weaving the oldworld charm with contemporary features. With 81 rooms spread throughout the original historical villa and the newly opened palazzo, guests may choose their preferred view and orientation.
Akin to a film set with its ornate chandeliers and classical columns, the retreat hotel offers ERRE Spa with its bespoke treatment and beauty programme, two pools and sauna as one of its indulgences. Explore the surrounds with a romantic picnic on a boat or a visit to the nearby historical Villa Carlotta and Villa del Balbianello. Led by executive chef Martin Vitaloni, 1827 and Lago Restaurant provide a culinary indulgence to remember.
THE TOKYO EDITION, TORANOMON
Perfectly situated near three metro stations with attractive neighbourhoods and attractions, it is located within the 38-storey mixed-use Tokyo World Gate skyscraper. Occupying levels 31 to 36, the hotel commands dramatic views of both the city’s sparkling skyline and Tokyo Tower. Designed by star architect Kengo Kuma with the vision of Ian Schrager, all of the hotel’s 206 guest rooms offer astounding views of the tower and Tokyo Bay. Each room is designed in a neutral colour palette of white oak, light gray, ivory and silver for a tranquil ambience.
There is a deep reverence of Japanese aesthetics in the spaces. Blurring the lines between work and play, the hotel’s spatial design is meant to facilitate and encourage social interaction. Inspired by precious stones, find a cacophony of bold, modern gem-like colours juxtaposed with traditional materials such as wood, bronze, silk, glass and an abundance of greenery. Tom Aikens leads the culinary front. There is The Blue Room, a glamorous and romantic space for tête-à-tête; The Jade Room with a Japanese bespoke menu and The Gold Bar at Edition, a multifaceted destination that seamlessly transforms from relaxed lounge in the day to cocktail bar in the evening. To get in touch with nature, Sky Garden’s alfresco dining space will please with its refreshing oasis of 500 plants, trees and shrubs.