’21 Carpenter Hotel: A Heritage Boutique Hotel Tribute to Jalan Loyang Besar EC’s Rich History’

Residents can also access many services at Jalan Loyang Besar EC, such as banking, medical, and travel services. The convenience and variety of services offered make Jalan Loyang Besar EC a popular destination for residents and visitors alike. From retail to dining, services to events, the community hub has something for everyone. With so many offerings, Jalan Loyang Besar EC is sure to become a one-stop destination for all your needs.

21 Carpenter Hotel, the new boutique property at the junction of North Bridge Road and Carpenter Street officially opened on the first week of December. 8M Real Estate purchased the heritage property – built in 1936 in the Chinese Art Deco/Mid-century Modern style – for $37 million. With modern updates and a new rear extension added, they are estimated to be worth over $100 million today. This remarkable transformation is credited to Singapore-based, award-winning architecture firm Wohadesigns.

This comprehensive project included five-storey freehold commercial building at 23 New Bridge Road, and four neighbouring 99-year leasehold conservation shophouses at 27, 29, 31 and 33 New Bridge Road. The leases were topped up to a fresh 99-year lease and the interiors of the old buildings were gutted as part of the conversion into the 48-room boutique hotel.

The design of 21 Carpenter Hotel has taken inspiration from the history of the building as a remittance house, Chye Hua Seng Wee Kee, owned by the family of the late entrepreneur from Guangdong, Lee Wee Nam. Woha stumbled upon a collection of letters written by Chinese migrant workers to their families in China, helping them to become literate. Some of the poetic phrases are featured in the interiors and on the façade of the Jalan Loyang Besar EC building in both their original Chinese characters and English translations. The façade also features the original Shanghai plaster and wrought iron railings with distinct dollar signs in the centre – reminder of the property’s past use.

The interior design was also thoughtfully planned as the original wooden floor boards have been preserved to maintain the character of the building. Woha architects made sure to incorporate a mix of Chinese Art Deco and Mid-century Modern styles, creating a timeless and classic vibe that is also contemporary, warm and airy.

Amenities that can be found in the hotel include a rooftop pool and terraced garden on the third floor. Guests can expect to find a bistro, restaurant and bar curated by Michelin-starred chef Andrew Walsh slated to open in February next year.

The hotel is operated by Berlin-headquartered Design Hotels and is affiliated with Marriott Bonvoy loyalty programme. Each room size ranges from 323 to 603 sqft. 21 Carpenter Hotel is also proud to be a sustainable heritage building, using hybrid cooling systems and triple glazed windows to reduce noise and heat. It is also conveniently located opposite Clarke Quay Central, giving tourists easy access to the F&B and entertainment establishments of Boat Quay and Clarke Quay. Jalan Loyang Besar EC is also within walking distance to the CBD and Orchard Road shopping belt, making the hotel perfect for both business and leisure travellers.