design et al are delighted to announce that M.A.X Studio have been shortlisted for Hotel Over 200 Rooms Asia Pacific Award in The International Hotel and Property Awards 2017.
M.A.X Studio were tasked with the re branding of the Sofitel Singapore with a touch of French Flair. Inspired by the famous Jardin du Luxembourg garden in Paris, the five star hotel has benefited from a charming and elegant facelift for the full property. The whole renovation has been inspired by the Jardin du Luxembourg. For instance, miniature fibreglass boats in the hotel ponds are reminiscent of the toy boats in the Parisian garden. The designers also tried to recreate the communal feel of the garden by putting seats around the hotel, just like those in Jardin du Luxembourg where people meet to sit and talk. Off-white drapes lining the outdoor corridors help soften the rigid façade, imparting a feel of serenity – particularly at the open-air LeBar located beyond the lobby. French artefacts and artworks are also displayed throughout the resort, so guests feel like they are walking through an art gallery.
In the lobby, a 3.5m by 5m glass lighting installation titled Stellar hangs from the bold pink ceiling. Inspired by a jewellery box interior, the installation was created by Czech bespoke glass artwork and lighting manufacturer Lasvit and features 685 hand-blown glass pieces that were assembled on-site. But while the decor may be mostly French-inspired, the designers have blended in Singaporean elements as well. Throughout the resort, orchid motifs are used. The luxury rooms have been refreshed in a green and blue scheme, the suites and villas are decked out in subdued red and purple,with gold-toned furnishings. There are also new food and beverage options. Kwee Zeen, Sofitel’s upscale chain of restaurants that is also found in Bali, replaces The Terrace buffet restaurant, offering a range of Asian, Western and French cuisine.
The lobby leads to the new Chocolaterie, where guests can dine on French patisseries and chocolates. The refurbished So Spa, previously known as the Spa Botanica, is the largest in Sofitel’s chain of spas, at 64,500 sq ft. It was the first area to be renovated and comprises a spa garden, 14 treatment rooms and six outdoor spa pavilions . The new design has successfully reflected the blending between the French Elegance requested by Sofitel Brand as well as promoted the local touch of Singapore culture thought the resort.