The new Hotel Michael on Sentosa is all understated luxury
Wouldn't it be nice to spend a few nights in a hotel dreamed up by world-renowned designer? Forget Berlin, Paris or London - Singapore, our friend in the neighbourhood, has a lavish and stylish new property created by architect Michael Graves.
The Hotel Michael is in Resorts World on Sentosa, Singapore's big, integrated leisure-and-gaming resort, spanning 49 hectares and featuring six hotels, a massive Universal Studios fun park and a casino.
Though the property is still not fully open, you can check in at the Hotel Michael and bask in a world of design and delectable Italian cuisine.
Michael Graves is esteemed as one of "the New York Five", America's top architects, and in 1999 was awarded a National Medal of Arts. His firm has earned acclaim for a variety of commercial and residential buildings and interior design, and also designs a popular line of household items, some of which you can buy in the hotel lobby's Michael Graves Gallery, as well as his paintings.
There are four room types to choose from, starting with the Deluxe in muted colours and with a luxurious kingsize bed.
Each room has a pullout writing desk, hidden vanity mirror and ample storage for your gear. The Michael Graves signature is stamped everywhere, from the wash basin and shower stall to the art pieces adorning the walls.
It took me a few minutes to reconcile with the Michael Gravesness of the surroundings. Most boutique designer hotels feature vibrant hues and furniture in eccentric shapes, for a more or less out-of-this-world feeling. Some even make you feel like you're sleeping in an artist's studio.
But the Hotel Michael feels more friendly, homey even. It's not too minimal or overwhelming. It feels just like home, except that this home was designed by Michael Graves.
If you want more space, the Club Deluxe Rooms occupy two private floors with direct access to the exclusive Executive Lounge. More luxurious by far, they spacious marble bathrooms with circular showers and large bathtubs.
The biggest rooms, the two Presidential Suites, redefine extravagance. Each has a fully equipped kitchen, a vast but comfortable living area and a circular balcony with stunning views across Sentosa Island.
All room types offer duck-down duvets and duck-feather pillows, large LCD TVs with cable, coffee and tea makers and safes.
Dining and drinking options include Palio, serving Italian and European cuisine, Michael's Lounge on Level 2 for drinks and snacks, and the Sky Lounge on the 11th floor for booze with a view.
The hotel is close to Singapore's first casino, which will soon open, and a few minutes' walk to Universal Studios. Shuttle bus will take you for free to Vivo City for shopping, and from there you can easily get a cab or ride the MRT to explore Singapore further.
AT A GLANCE High points:
Low point: You're a long way from other attractions like China Town, Dempsey Road and Orchard Road - most guests just stick to Resorts World.
Find it: Resorts World Sentosa, Singapore
Phone it: (+65) 6577 8899
Browse it: www.RWSentosa.com
