Singapore’s iconic Raffles Hotel will close its doors for several months for a major refurbishment.
A restoration project for the 129-year-old hotel will take place in three phases.
The shopping arcade will be first to get a makeover, followed by the main hotel building and lobby from mid-2017.
The hotel will then close later in 2017 before reopening sometime in mid-2018.
The hotel was registered as a national monument in 1987 and any restoration work is strictly controlled.
"We have a rich and colourful history and are about to begin a new chapter in our ongoing story – a sensitive restoration that will enable us to continue to offer what our guests expect and value," said Diana Banks, vice-president, Raffles Brand for Raffles Hotels and Resorts.
It has been 25 years since the hotel underwent a major refurbishment when it was closed for more than two years.
Interior design will be handled by Alexandra Champalimaud, who has worked on the interiors of several landmark luxury hotels including New York Plaz Hotel, the Bel-Air in Los Angeles and The Dorchester in London.
