The hotel that never sleeps

The moment you step into W Singapore – Sentosa Cove, you feel the space pulsating with energy. An 11 by six meter pixelated light modulator flickers according to the rhythm of the music; a pair of bubble lifts flank an interactive art installation comprising of a camera that captures your profile and projects a kaleidoscopic pattern with your image onto the wall. All the while the indie sounds of Swedish singer-songwriter, Lykke Li fill the halls.

The sensational swirl of high-energy interiors, vivid design, cutting-edge technology and uniquely modern amenities is a hallmark of W Hotels around the world. That and its trademark brand of service—think the Whatever/Whenever® round-the-clock concierge support provided by friendly “Talents” (that’s what they call their staff). Here at W Singapore, the latest addition to the trendsetting luxury boutique hotel chain which debuted last month, it is no different.

When conceptualising the look of the place, The Rockwell Group, an award winning New York architecture and design firm, took a leaf from the natural settings of Sentosa Island and the dynamic energy of the city. Rich hues of rosewood, earth tones, egg shell shaped lounge chairs and clusters of birdcage lamps hanging in the WOOBAR is an ode to nature, while LED ‘grass stalks’ lend a glowing jungle ambience. As a nod to its location, the floral motif of Vanda Miss Joaquim orchid, Singapore’s national flower is woven into the fabric of the design narrative. Gorgeous batik pattern appear in the feature wall behind the reception, on puffy coloured embossed leather in the elevators and even bed headboards in the hotel’s 240 sea and marina facing guestrooms.

Traces of pop art culture is found in the authentic Andy Warhol paintings hanging in the hotel lobby otherwise known as the Living Room, and the kitschy gold bonbon sculpture by Laurence Jenkell standing in the W Lawn. For an extra whimsical touch, 48 tiny pixie fairies pepper the walls of the Great Room, a 732 sq metre space where formal events, weddings and conferences are held.

Excerpt from the October issue of epicure.