Sofitel Luxury Hotels has announced Karl Lagerfeld as the ‘Signature Designer’ for Sofitel So Singapore, the new luxury designer hotel set to open in 2013.

Lagerfeld will create a signature emblem that will symbolise the hotel’s creative style and will appear on a range of exclusive objects throughout the property. In keeping with the involvement of Christian Lacroix as signature designer for Sofitel So Bangkok and Kenzo Takada who provided design direction at Sofitel So Mauritius, Sofitel’s partnership with Lagerfeld makes a bold statement on the direction of the So label.

Fashion designer, photographer, publisher, illustrator, film director and visionary, Lagerfeld has created a universe in which every line is perfectly under control, each detail of absolute importance. His passion for the world around him and ultramodern design ethic will become the trademark of Sofitel So.

“I am very proud to announce this inspirational collaboration, which is a perfect illustration of Sofitel Luxury Hotels’ ambitions with regard to excellence and elegance. His exceptional creativity and talent will confer the ultimate touch of refinement and enhance our concept,” said Robert Gaymer-Jones, CEO of Sofitel Luxury Hotels, on the partnership.

Located at 35 Robinson Road, Sofitel So Singapore’s iconic building was first built in 1927 where it remained a telecommunications and postal building till 1992. The 5-star hotel property retains its neo-classical facade and some of the existing building structures, while a newer five-storey wing is currently being constructed at the back.

The property is being designed by Singapore-based Miaja Design group, headed up by owner and creative director Isabelle Miaja. She said she was looking forward to working with Lagerfeld on the significant project.

“I am happy to have Karl Lagerfeld infuse some of his elements into parts of the hotel,” Miaja told HM. “It will further enhance a hotel project, which we have put all our creativity in to become an Iconic place to enjoy in Singapore.”

The luxury hotel will feature 134 guestrooms including 23 suites, each uniquely designed to preserve the building’s heritage while representing modern Singapore. The property, which is owned by Royal Group Holdings since 2011, is currently under construction and is scheduled to open mid-2013.

“Having Karl Lagerfeld as the “Signature Designer” for the distinctive Sofitel So Singapore was an obvious choice to us, allowing us to pay homage to the country’s symbolic heritage building with an iconic design collaboration,” said Bobby Hiranandani, Managing Director of Royal Group Holdings.

“We are confident that this unprecedented partnership will galvanize the success of the boutique luxury hotel and offer guests a remarkable hospitality experience in true Sofitel style.”

James Wilkinson

Editor-In-Chief, Hotel Management