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Review / Conrad Singapore Orchard, a luxury update of a storied tradition: a look inside the newly rebranded former Regent Singapore that promises a best-in-class hotel experience for modern-day travellers
STORYVincenzo La Torre
- Located between Orchard Road and the Singapore Botanic Gardens, with Singapore Edition and Artyzen Singapore next door, the refurbished hotel caters to loyal customers of the Regent and first-timers
- Two popular restaurants of the former hotel have stayed on: the Michelin-starred Cantonese fine-dining establishment Summer Palace helmed by chef Liu Ching-hai, and Basilico, the casual Italian eatery
For decades, the Regent Singapore had been a source of fond memories for long-time travellers to Singapore and residents of the city alike, charming guests with its welcoming vibe and array of eateries.
The property opened in 1982 as the Pavilion InterContinental Hotel before becoming the Regent Singapore, managed by Four Seasons Hotel, in 1992. The hotel underwent a refurbishment in 2022 and reopened in 2023 as Conrad Singapore Orchard, managed by Hilton.
Located between the shopping thoroughfare of Orchard Road and the Singapore Botanic Gardens, the hotel is surrounded by tree-lined streets. The recently opened Singapore Edition and Artyzen Singapore are next door. This influx of new properties has transformed the leafy residential area around Cuscaden Road, Tanglin Road and Orchard Boulevard into one of the most happening spots in the Lion City.
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The Regent had always been a destination unto itself. With lovely afternoon tea and restaurants popular for business lunches and special occasions, it had become an institution among locals. And when embarking on the renovation, the Kwee family-controlled Pontiac Land, which owns the property, didn’t break with the past and retained the key elements of the former space.
The soaring skylit atrium, with its chandeliers and balconies filled with plants, has remained pretty much unchanged while the rooms and restaurants, which were in need of some sprucing up, underwent a thorough makeover.
The rooms and suites are what modern-day luxury travellers are looking for today: cosy, user-friendly and beautifully appointed accommodations in a natural palette that feel contemporary yet still display subtle nods to the location – the tropical vibe of Singapore. With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the lush neighbourhood, the rooms are sanctuaries you look forward to going back after exploring the hot and humid city state.
Touches such as eco-friendly water filter taps – you’d be surprised by how many five-star hotels still insist on wasteful plastic bottles – Byredo toiletries, and Dyson hair dryers show how much thought went into the upgrade. The easy-to-use shower and light switches that don’t require an instruction manual to operate also make a difference.
