Elevated experiences
After an extensive reinvention and refurbishment of the former Regent Orchard, Conrad Orchard seamlessly blends art, nature and opulence
This year, Conrad Singapore Orchard on Cuscaden Road opened its doors after a complete makeover of the former Regent Orchard Hotel. It is Hilton’s second Conrad Hotels and Resorts property in the city. Originally crafted by the acclaimed American architect John Portman, Conrad Singapore Orchard’s design has been revitalised by local artists. It seamlessly integrates art and nature into its 12 floors. From chic guest rooms to vibrant meeting spaces, restaurants and bars, every aspect of the hotel reflects Singapore’s lush garden city environment.
Central to Portman’s architectural vision is the stunning skylit atrium, a symbol of his legacy. This luminous centrepiece floods the space with natural light, epitomising the hotel’s commitment to timeless elegance and innovation.
Contemporary pieces by emerging local and regional artists thread through every nook, welcoming guests to visually explore Singapore’s rich botanical heritage through its thoughtfully selected art collection. Globally renowned sculptures, like Stephanie Scuris’ Harmony Fountain and Michio Ihara’s Singapore Shower, add a touch of timelessness to the surroundings.
Tranquil spaces
Conrad Singapore Orchard’s 445 newly reimagined guest rooms combine sophisticated residential living with botanical-inspired design. The 46 suites stand out with their spacious lounges and expansive terraces.
The pinnacle of luxury, the Conrad Suites span 210 sq m and boast a primary bedroom with lavish amenities, including a walk-in closet and a steam shower. The suite also features a generous living and entertainment area, a kitchenette and a dining room for eight. Additionally, it connects to two separate guest rooms with individual entrances.
The hotel boasts three tranquil spaces for relaxation and contemplation: an outdoor pool nestled amidst verdant alcoves, a well-equipped fitness centre for mindful exercise and an Executive Lounge with serene balconies. Fourteen event venues, including the grand Royal Pavilion Ballroom of 583 sq m, provide variety and versatility for meetings, celebrations and weddings.
Conrad Singapore Orchard is also affiliated with Hilton Honors, Hilton’s guest loyalty programme, spanning 22 unique hotel brands. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels enjoy immediate perks, such as a flexible payment slider enabling them to customise their booking with a blend of Points and cash. Additionally, members receive exclusive discounts and complimentary standard Wi-Fi access.
Members can access contactless technology exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton Honors mobile app. They can check-in, choose their room and access it using a Digital Key.
Conrad Singapore Orchard boasts 10 restaurants and bars, providing guests with various dining experiences. The flagship restaurant, Basilico, specialises in fresh, seasonal Italian cuisine, enhanced by a contemporary vermouth and cocktail bar.
There is also the Michelin-starred Summer Palace, which offers elevated Cantonese cuisine and the Tea Lounge, which showcases afternoon teas that spotlight regional botanicals with English and local specialities. Dolcetto offers a casual day-to-night Italian dining experience, from handcrafted pastries to pizzettas, coffee and cocktails.
The bold artistry of the hotel’s culinary and bartending team is also shared with guests through the selection of crafted experiences, behind-the-scenes tasting tours and workshops.
Premium treatment
Options spent the weekend at Conrad Singapore Orchard and had the opportunity to participate in the Manhattan Rickhouse Experience. This unique activity offers an intimate glimpse into the world of barrel-aged cocktails by head bartender Zana Möhlmann.
One enjoyable activity was the Edible Garden Walk, a captivating journey from the hotel to the Singapore Botanical Gardens. Led by local experts, guests discover edible plants unique to Singapore, fostering a deep bond with nature.
However, my stay was limited and I could not enjoy all of Conrad’s fun activities. One that I thought was fun but did not experience was the Cheese Infusion Workshop, conducted in Basilico’s cheese room. During dining hours, the cheese room serves up an array of hard and soft cheeses from around the globe. This room is a cheese lover’s dream come true.
Still, besides the enjoyable activities, the rooms underwent refurbishment to enhance comfort, which I experienced firsthand in the King Deluxe Suite. It was decorated with soothing colours and earthy tones, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that bathe the space in natural light, perfectly enhancing its botanical-inspired design.
Despite the absence of a bathtub, the suite’s expansive rain shower and high-quality toiletries offer a spa-like indulgence that more than makes up for it.
Like most luxury hotels, Conrad Singapore Orchard offers a thoughtful turn-down service as part of the hotel’s Sleep-to-Wake ritual to prepare you for the night. This includes a calming pre-sleep tea crafted from local botanicals, an in-room guided sound bath through the in-room Smart TV to relax the mind and body and an extensive pillow menu to customise your slumber.
Each morning, the hotel hosts a Morning Intention Session by the pool, featuring contemporary fitness and wellness classes in partnership with Trapeze Rec. Club, a holistic wellness club in Tanjong Pagar.
Beginning at 7.30am, it may seem early for a Sunday wake-up call, but I was grateful for the decision. The serene yoga class I attended invigorated my senses and stimulated my appetite, setting the perfect tone for a delightful breakfast at Basilico, the hotel’s buffet dining venue.
In retrospect, my stay felt too brief. With abundant activities and experiences, time seemed to slip away too quickly. I recommend extending your visit to at least two nights to immerse yourself in all that Conrad Singapore Orchard offers.