If you’re bored of all the swanky hotels by the bay, here’s something different for your next staycation: Hotel Indigo Singapore Katong. The quaint new boutique space is unique to our country, ’cause every Hotel Indigo across the globe is specifically designed to showcase the character and heritage of the neighbourhood it finds itself in. That means this first Hotel Indigo in Singapore — and second in Southeast Asia after Bangkok — is completely one-of-a-kind and inspired by the Katong community. Cool, huh.
Located near 112 Katong mall, the 131-room building takes over the former Joo Chiat Police Station — which was built in 1928 — and incorporates several elements from that as a nod to its past. Influenced by the vibrant nature of its surroundings, the architecture and design of the space is created with Peranakan culture in mind. Simply put, everything here is colourful, cheery and charming.
Exquisite details include the reception’s feature wall comprising a collage of intricate Peranakan ceramic patterns, an eclectic pop-up ‘mama shop’ in the pavilion displaying a lantern chandelier and novels curated by BooksActually, and gorgeous snapshots by photographer Justin Mott capturing the essence of the neighbourhood hung on corridors leading to the rooms.
As for the room types, there are only two here, and they’re rather similar. Both the deluxe and premier options are nestled on 30 sqm — only cosy spaces here, no suites — and they’re designed to mirror an open plan Peranakan home.
Retro vibes abound, with neat touches such as carrom boards in place of coffee tables, a minibar stocked with complimentary old school snacks like White Rabbit sweets, and the bases of sewing machines re-used as vanity tables. A luxe bathtub sits by the window in premier rooms, for guests to enjoy a relaxing end to their day (but take note, the view goes both ways). The decor can be a lot to take in when you first enter the room, ’cause it’s nothing like your run-of-the-mill hotel chain — this one’s definitely not for fans of minimalist aesthetics.
Other facilities include a 24-hour fitness centre, a rooftop infinity pool overlooking the shophouses and buildings in the vicinity, and an all-day dining restaurant called Baba Chews Bar and Eatery, where you can get modern and traditional dishes from the Straits of Malacca, international favourites, and locally-inspired items like ayam buah keluak and foie gras tau kwa pau.
It’s all very charming and perfectly Instagrammable, but don’t just take our word for it — head over to explore the nooks and crannies of the space yourself.
Hotel Indigo Singapore Katong is at 86 East Coast Rd, Katong Square, 6723-7001. Opening rates from now till Sept 30 start from $171++/night.
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