PUTTIN’ ON THE RITZ

The opening of The Ritz-Carlton Residences in Singapore, the first standalone development of its kind in Asia, means you can have your cake and eat it in one of the world's most exciting cities. Guy Fiorita reports

On a balmy autumn evening in Singapore, as the heat of the day finally subsides and a light breeze begins blowing in off the water, a small group stands, champagne glasses in hand listening to one in their group make a short toast. They are gathered on the 24th floor sky-terrace of a sleek new steel and glass building in the highly coveted Cairnhill area of the city. As the talk comes to an end, developers, investors, local dignitaries and future residents bring their glasses together to celebrate the opening of something that may be about to change perceptions of luxury living, throughout Asia, for good.

There is no doubt that the opening of The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Cairnhill, Singapore marks the beginning of a new era. After all, this is the very first full strata, standalone property in Asia to be equipped with the legendary amenities and six-star service that is synonymous of The Ritz-Carlton brand. Others will follow.

The opening of The Residences means Singapore joins a growing list of world cities like London, New York, Los Angeles and Moscow where the wealthiest people combine the comforts of home with the convenience of the best hotels. Of the project, Herve Humler, President, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. said “The choice of Singapore as the place in Asia to launch indicates our confidence in the country as a highly desirable and sought after location for distinctive residential projects.”

“This is a very important development for Singapore,” says Leny Suparman, CEO of KOP Properties, developers of the project. “The Ritz-Carlton name is instantly recognisable. The service quality is legendary and known around the world. The opening of The Ritz-Carlton Residences in Singapore brings the very top international brand, synonymous with luxury and hospitality to the property development market.”

Another key factor is that this is the first full strata, standalone residence, (in other words there is no hotel attached to the project), in Singapore or anywhere in Asia. “The reality is that the opening of The Ritz-Carlton Residences sets a new benchmark for full strata luxury property developments not only in Singapore but throughout the continent,” says Gladys Ng, Director of Sales and Marketing, KOP Properties.

It’s also quite a sight. The 36-storey crystal and steel tower stands atop a small hill amid immaculate gardens in Cairnhill, one of the city’s most exclusive neighbourhoods. The building boasts three open terraces that house extensive fitness, entertainment and service facilities for residents. “In addition, the nature of the development was designed such that both residents and guests feel cosy and at ease within the estate grounds. The maze garden, the pools and the pavilion all cater to being at peace, while encompassing everything one thinks of or hopes for in a home,” says Suparman.

Looking at the finished product, what really stands out is the way the hardware and software have come together. By hardware, we mean a fourth floor active zone with a gym, lap pool, yoga deck, Jacuzzi and hydro pool. Also, on the 14th floor there is an executive lounge with a library, coffee house serving light snacks and a casual area for meeting friends or reading the latest newspapers. For more formal entertaining the 24th floor features a wine cellar for storing residents’ wines and a professional kitchen and private dining area for entertaining. Additionally, residential units includes Sub-Zero fridges, Poggenpohl kitchen cabinets, Miele appliances, fullyfitted bathrooms with rain showers, B&B Italia customised walk-in wardrobes with built-in de-humidifier and Lutron Smart Home Lighting and Sound Systems.

The software here means that all staff is hired, trained and managed by The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company including a doorman, a 24-hr concierge, an on-site food and beverage manager and a director of residences which according to Suparman is “somewhat akin to the general manager of a hotel. He’s the go-to person for any requests, concerns or issues. Owners also enjoy special privileges and recognition at all Ritz-Carlton properties around the world like complimentary upgrades, breakfast, and more. It certainly adds an unrivalled feeling of exclusivity for our owners.”

So who is buying? According to Gladys Ng, “The philosophy of KOP Properties has always been to invest in areas where the cosmopolitan and well-heeled congregate. They are well-travelled and savvy global citizens, and thus our developments receive widespread interest from buyers of many different nationalities. Buyers (or potential buyers) of The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Singapore, Cairnhill, are no different, and typically are highly discerning buyers with a taste for the finer things in life.”

And what will life be like at The Ritz-Carlton Residences Singapore? “It’s a place to unwind, relax and spend time with loved ones or indulge in favourite pastimes,” says Suparman. “Residents can do all of this, and a whole lot more. A plethora of facilities are available for enjoyment and relaxation - one can stay fit by having a swim at the lap pool on the 4th floor sky terrace, followed by a tranquil soak in the Jacuzzi tub or spend some quiet time catching up on the news or reading a novel in the 14th floor executive lounge while having a coffee.”

“Ritz Residences are known for creating more than just a place to live. They are masters at creating a way of life, and no one does it better. They provide everything one needs to enjoy the finest lifestyle imaginable,” says Gladys Ng. “I am sure that anyone lucky enough to call this home will be the envy of many people. Imagine spending the day enjoying the numerous facilities available here and then being able to retire in the evening to the comfort of your own luxurious residence. In some ways, it will feel like you are living in the finest hotel in the world yet at the same time you get to enjoy the comfort and familiarity of your own home. What could be better than that?” Put it all together and it adds up to living the Ritz life.