2019-10-01 Singapore Tatler

IMAGES: ADARE MANOR

W

ith rampant urbanisation, developments around the world continue

unabated—just look at the number of cranes dotting the skyline.

However, there has also been a signifi cant shift from new-build,

ground-up construction towards developments underpinned by the

preservation of a historic past.

Adaptive reuse, the practice of converting existing structures into

properties designed for a variety of uses, not only helps in retaining the inherited legacy,

but also allows owners and developers to play a role in environmental conservation—not

to mention giving the property a competitive edge. Ask any architect and they will tell

you that the greenest building is the one that has already been built. Here, we detail the

transformation of fi ve grand homes to luxury hotels that have deftly married old-world

splendour with modern glamour, while keeping their celebrated past intact.

These thoughtfully restored heritage mansions-turned-luxury hotels

off er travellers a home for the night as well as an experience layered

with beautiful patina and personality

BY SHWETA PARIDA

To the Manor Reborn