Checking In: Colonial Charm Meets Modern Mastery at Mett Singapore
In with the old
Did you know that the new crown jewel of Singapore’s hospitality scene was once the British Far East Command Headquarters? That’s right. Mett Singapore, more than its prescribed purposes, is a space with a unique sense of place. It is where your stay becomes part of a long-standing story. Giving the 99-year-old property a new lease of life, one that’s rooted in the present without renouncing the past, the hotel blends its colonial charm with modern motifs.
Nestled amid the greenery of Fort Canning Park, serenity follows your every step, which isn’t at all a bad way to get around. The hotel, after all, is only a nine-minute walk from the Dhoby Ghaut MRT station. Seeing the lush foliage come into view after cutting through the concrete jungle isn’t just relaxing—it’s revitalising. It allows you the time to imagine the metamorphosis that had taken place: a royal estate, a military college, the country’s first botanical garden.
I certainly had a lovely time basking in the bliss of nature—an assignment at the recently concluded Singapore International Film Festival brought me straight to Mett Singapore’s doorstep. The allure of this heritage-listed hotel, in reality, goes beyond the old-world glamour it presents at first glance. The finest creature comforts that come in tow guarantee an elevated staying experience. Read on to find out about the highlights of the trip.
STAYING UNBOTHERED
A sense of relief washed over me as soon as I stepped into the fine establishment. It was barely sundown, but the dark clouds blanketing the area, spritzing rainwater at scattered moments, had earlier put me in a somewhat sombre mood. As though guided by intuition, a staff member who escorted me to the reading room came back with a glass of refreshing concoction. The check-in process was swift—I found myself in the Deluxe Patio Room within minutes.
The well-appointed space, part of the hotel’s collection of 84 suites and rooms, is a unique sanctuary in the city. It especially comes alive when bathed in natural light. Conceptualised by interior designer Jeffrey Wilkes, the room boasts a number of noteworthy features, including the whitewashed French door that opens to a large private patio overlooking the parkland or the city skyline. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy your morning coffee.
WORTH EVERY BITE
Speaking of which, Mett Singapore is not under-endowed with gastronomic offerings. I started the day with some fresh pastries and flavourful cold cuts at the open-concept Canning Bar & Lounge. From the corner table I was sitting at, I caught the hotel’s design details that had been made apparent by the streaming sunlight—from the high ceilings and wide corridors to the natural materials like rattan and timber that serve as a continuation of the park beyond the walls.
The hearty breakfast spread, as it turned out, was only a prelude to the palate pleasures that awaited at L’Amo Bistrò del Mare. Offering a selection of refined Italian coastal cuisine, the restaurant combines creativity and centuries of culture in every bite. One of the dishes that stood out to me was Spaghettone Cacio & Pepe, which featured a creamy pecorino and black pepper sauce, accented with premium Japanese uni and bright chives.
RESTORING BALANCE
There’s a reason why I called the hotel a sanctuary in the city. After days of running around town, catching screenings of the year’s cinematic gems like the Oscar-tipped Hamnet and Late Fame, I needed to wind down. Lucky for me, Mett Singapore inspires relaxation through many of its shared spaces. Lounging by the sparkling outdoor pool—there are two of them—while taking in the idyllic scenery and sipping a crisp cocktail was heavenly.
Those who prefer to sweat the stress out, on the other hand, may make a beeline for the gym. The fitness centre is as cutting-edge as it is chic. It comes with a range of state-of-the-art equipment from Technogym. There are also the padel and pickleball courts—although they were still under construction at the time of my stay. Between these public amenities and the private retreat, one thing became clear to me: every detail here is curated with the guest experience in mind.
METT SINGAPORE
Address: 11 Canning Walk, Singapore 178881
Contact: +65 6799 8800
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