Northstar

INSIGHTS | EDITOR'S PICK MAR-APR 2018 41 MEETINGS & CONVENTIONS • MCMAG-ASIA.COM H oused within mixed-use building DUO, which includes residential spaces, oces and ground-level dining options, Andaz Singapore combines the brand's trademark sense of grown-up style and unbridled fun with local heritage, at the crossroads of the culturally-rich Bras Basah-Bugis enclave. DESIGNCENTRIC SPACES Upon stepping into the hotel's lobby on the 25th storey, guests are whizzed away into a labyrinth of 'alleyways', or segmented spaces, that encourage one to explore. But instead of coming o as disorganised or chaotic, the design is intimate and contemporary, much like stepping into one's (designer) home. Acclaimed Hong Kong interior designer Andre Fu's magic touch extends to the 342 guestrooms and suites, all imbued with earthy tones and wood detailing. The King View Deluxe Room I stayed in was ooded with natural light, thanks to the oor-to-ceiling windows. Modern conveniences include Wi-Fi, a complimentary mini bar (excludes alcoholic drinks) and all-day refreshments at the Sunroom. Flip through The Andaz Times for hand-picked recommendations on to-dos, sees and eats, inside and out of the hotel. THE WAY TO A MAN AND WOMAN'S HEARTS The hotel's centre of attraction is arguably its culinary hub, Alley on 25, ANDAZ SINGAPORE Words Lee Xin Hui Southeast Asia's first Andaz opens in the vibrant neighbourhood of Bugis in Singapore. "Upon stepping into the hotel's lobby on the 25th storey, guests are whizzed away whizzed away into a labyrinth of 'alleyways', or segmented spaces, that encourage one to explore." with restaurants that are interestingly determined by preparation instead of cuisine. Guests can get anything from grilled meats from Smoke & Pepper to a bowl of noodles from Auntie's Wok & Steam, and Andaz Pop, a palm sugar- coconut ice cream and red bean-caramel popsicle coated with pandan white chocolate, at Icehaus. On breezy evenings, head to the rooftop bar, Mr Stork, on level 39. Cosy up in one of the 10 teepee huts set amidst tropical landscapes and enjoy sunset views accompanied by cocktails and the Andaz Pale Ale on tap – crafted in collaboration with local microbrewery RedDot Brewhouse. For events and meetings, planners can select from a curated menu featuring signature oerings including, one of my favourites, the organic fried rice with crabmeat, asparagus and Sarawak pepper. AWAY FROM THE BOARDROOM On the third oor, planners will nd stylish residential-inspired meeting venues that span 1,375 sqm, with oor- to-ceiling windows and loft kitchens that are ideal for cocktails, breakout sessions and chef interactions. A standout venue is The Glasshouse – this 583-sqm ballroom features elegant chandeliers and seats 320 in a round table setting. A more intimate alternative is the 200-sqm Garden Studio that oers access to the hotel's outdoor garden. Two Studios are available for smaller set-ups. TOTAL EVENT SIZE: 1,375 sqm TOTAL EVENT VENUES: 4 (The Glasshouse, Studio I, Studio II, Garden Studio) CONTACT: letsmeet.sg@andaz. com Sunroom Sunroom Choices from Auntie's Wok & Steam.

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