The Warehouse Hotel

"How did it strike you on arrival?From across the Singapore River this trio of former godowns (warehouses) cuts a striking profile. Inside, it’s just as sophisticated, with industrial chic details inspired by Fritz Lang’s film Metropolis. Think pulleys hanging from the ceiling’s exposed steel trusses. It’s hard to resist the urge to pull out your smartphone and start snapping. What’s the crowd like?Tastemakers, design fiends, sophisticated hipsters. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.My River View Room had views across the water, once a hub of shipping activity and now a residential area and a dining hub. At 365 square-feet it was a decent size and the rectangular layout was space-efficient. I found the interior – in muted browns and dusky blues – very soothing, and I loved the mod Asian look of the ikat print bedspread. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?Comfy bed with pillow top, pillows a tad soft. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that worth a mention?It’s not every day your mini-bar includes local snacks and creamy Hokkaido milk to make hot drinks with. And they’re not the only unconventional offerings in the selection – check out the BDSM paddle. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.How can a bathroom that looks so minimalist have everything you need? Somehow The Warehouse has made this work, with a lush shower, plush towels, a vast vanity and guilt-free products from eco-certified label Ashley & Co. We all need some good Wi-Fi. What’s the word on that?High-speed and free. Anything stand out about other services and features?The restaurant is by celebrated local chef Willin Low and features jazzed-up hawker staples, like a wrap-it-yourself popiah (pancake with pork and vegetables). A rooftop glass lap pool with pink tiles the color of those in local old-school coffee shops is the icing on the building. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?The thoughtful touches and informed design, not to mention the bragging rights that you’ve stayed in one of Singapore’s coolest new hotels. Bottom line: worth it?It’s a tour de force by a team of Singaporean backers, designers, chefs and more – this is luxe local at its best." - Audrey Phoon