Latest news with #AnouskaHempel
Business Times
16-05-2025
- Business
- Business Times
Duxton Reserve hotel sold to Lotus One Investment for S$80 million
[SINGAPORE] Duxton Reserve, a 49-key boutique hotel in Tanjong Pagar, has been sold by Singapore-based hospitality company The Garcha Group to a family office for S$80 million, or about S$1.63 million per key. The sale confirms an earlier report by The Business Times, which reported that due diligence was being done on the property at a price of about S$80 million. A round of expressions of interest in December had pulled in strong interest, 'mainly from local ultra-high-net-worth individuals, family offices and a couple of foreign buyers'. On Friday (May 16), marketing agent JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group said the hotel had been sold to Lotus One Investment, the Singapore-based investment arm of Lotus Singapore, a family office focused on ventures in South Asia. JLL said: 'The acquisition aligns with Lotus One Investment's hospitality and real estate strategy, which centres on long-term, value-oriented investments in iconic and culturally significant assets.' Duxton Reserve Hotel comprises eight three-storey conservation shophouses with a built-up area of about 34,000 square feet (sq ft). Located at 80 and 83 Duxton Road, the restored heritage boutique hotel is on a 9,775 sq ft site that has 62.5 years left on its lease. The hotel, which has 49 guest rooms and suites ranging from 20 square metres (sq m) to 51 sq m in size, operates under the Marriott International Autograph Collection brand. A NEWSLETTER FOR YOU Tuesday, 12 pm Property Insights Get an exclusive analysis of real estate and property news in Singapore and beyond. Sign Up Sign Up Satinder Garcha, founder of The Garcha Group, acquired the property for S$50 million in 2013, when it was known as Berjaya Hotel. He invested significantly in its refurbishment, and hired British interior designer Anouska Hempel, but preserved its 49 rooms and suites. For the group, the sale represents a strategic capital reallocation which would enable the group to focus on new development projects and expand its brand both locally and internationally, said JLL. Tan Ling Wei, senior vice-president of investment sales at JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group, said the sale campaign drew strong investor interest due to the 'high-quality and unique nature' of the asset. She added: 'The enthusiastic response underscores the growing appeal of boutique heritage properties – particularly those converted from shophouses – which are increasingly sought-after for their strong capital appreciation and potential for stable returns.' Shophouse hotel properties have attracted increasing interest; more such deals could be closed in the second quarter. The purchase of a 48-key boutique hotel for about S$100 million is underway, at a near-record price tag of S$2.08 million per key. Another property, RB Family Office's Hotel 1900 in Mosque Street, was put up for sale in April at a guide price close to the 138-room property's S$170 million valuation.
Hospitality Net
08-05-2025
- Hospitality Net
Starhotels Collezione Unveils Two New Panoramic Suites: a Harmonious Blend of Timeless Style and Contemporary Comfort in the Heart of Florence
In the heart of the city, Helvetia & Bristol Firenze - Starhotels Collezione enhances its offer with two exclusive new panoramic suites, located on the fifth floor of the historic building. This new chapter strengthens the harmonious dialogue between the refined classical elegance of the Helvetia wing and the sophisticated, contemporary design of the Bristol wing, curated by renowned interior designer Anouska Hempel. The new suites boast an unrivalled view over the city's most iconic landmarks, from Brunelleschi's spectacular dome to the imposing Palazzo Vecchio, offering a unique stay experience where handcrafted details meet refined and welcoming design. The furnishings of both suites incorporate elements inspired by Anouska Hempel's sophisticated aesthetic vision for the Bristol wing: many of the elegant details were handcrafted by skilled Florentine artisans, paying tribute to Italy's rich artisanal tradition. This unique blend of the Helvetia and Bristol wings creates an unprecedented harmony between heritage and modernity, designed for guests seeking a high-end stay in an intimate, discreet atmosphere. Suite 560 (66 sqm) offers breathtaking views over the iconic Brunelleschi dome and Giotto's bell tower. The interiors evoke the charm of traditional craftsmanship, a hallmark of the Helvetia wing, such as the bathrooms adorned in sophisticated and distinctive two-tone marble—featuring both a service bathroom and a main bathroom with bathtub and shower—and a lounge with refined French-style furnishings. These elements coexist seamlessly with the design of the Bristol wing, including the elegant canopy bed and hand-painted marble side tables. Suite 550 (74 sqm) pays homage to the decorative identity and tradition of the Helvetia wing, with coordinated textiles and wall motifs, a cosy panoramic lounge area, and a glass balcony offering spectacular views of the city—from the magnificent Duomo on one side to the Arnolfo Tower of Palazzo Vecchio on the other. The bathrooms, clad in exquisite marble, offer a perfect combination of elegance and functionality. The suite features a main bathroom with separate bathtub and shower, and a service bathroom, both designed to provide a refined and relaxing ambiance. Marble surfaces are paired with bespoke details and furnishings, creating perfect harmony between aesthetics and comfort. Guests seeking the ultimate in exclusivity may reserve both suites, thereby privatizing the entire fifth floor for a tailored stay steeped in charm, privacy, and comfort. Adding further value to the experience is the exclusive suite-only room service, the result of a collaboration with two icons of Italian excellence and hotel partners: Cibrèo and Iginio Massari Alta Pasticceria. Cibrèo offers a selection of iconic dishes and sophisticated cocktails to be enjoyed at any time of day in the privacy of the suite. For those who love to start their day with something truly special—whether with family or to celebrate a meaningful moment—suite breakfasts are enhanced with a curated selection of products by Iginio Massari: oven-baked cakes, leavened pastries, and made-to-order sweets—exclusive creations available through the Guest Relations service. His delicacies are also featured in the suite's welcome amenities, offering guests a first taste of the excellence that awaits. With these new suites, Helvetia & Bristol Firenze - Starhotels Collezione reaffirms its commitment to bespoke, top-tier hospitality: authentic, sophisticated, and unforgettable. Hotel website
