The majestic Fullerton Hotel Singapore stands tall in the very heart of the historic city center, near the spot where the Singapore River flows into Marina Bay. It is not just a five-star hotel, but an architectural symbol that embodies several eras of the Singaporean state. Its walls have witnessed the change of colonial power, the Japanese occupation, and the birth of a modern nation.
History and Architecture of The Fullerton Hotel
The building known today as The Fullerton Hotel was officially opened in 1928. It was named after Sir Robert Fullerton, the first Governor of the Straits Settlements. However, its original purpose was far more multifaceted than just accommodating guests.
What The Fullerton Was Before:
Initially, the monumental building housed several key institutions of the colony:
• The General Post Office of Singapore: This was a hive of activity, from where mail was sent and received across the empire.
• The Singapore Club: An exclusive private club for British gentlemen, a place for important decisions and social gatherings.
• The Chamber of Commerce: The commercial heart of the colony.
• The Marine Department.
During World War II, the building served as a hospital for the wounded, and in the post-war years, it continued to perform administrative functions until its closure in 1996.
Architecture:
The Fullerton is a brilliant example of Neoclassicism with elements of the Doric order. Its architecture embodies the power and stability of the British Empire:
• Monumental Facade: The building is clad in grey granite, and its main facade is adorned with a massive colonnade featuring Doric capitals.
• Inner Atrium: The heart of the hotel is a grand five-story atrium, which was once the inner courtyard of the post office. Today, it is flooded with natural light, featuring high ceilings, marble floors, and elegant balconies. This space combines historical grandeur with modern comfort.
• Neoclassical Details: Everywhere—from the ceiling moldings to the massive carved doors—the strict and elegant classical style is evident.
A large-scale restoration, completed in 2001, carefully transformed the former administrative giant into a luxury hotel, preserving its historical spirit and architectural details.
Surroundings: Between Past and Future
Across from the hotel, on the other side of the Singapore River, lies the famous Boat Quay district with its restored shophouses, restaurants, and bars, where life buzzes until late at night.
Nearby are interesting historical landmarks:
• Cavenagh Bridge: The oldest bridge in Singapore, a pedestrian link between the two banks of history.
• Asian Civilisations Museum: Housed in another majestic colonial building, a former school.
• The Parliament House (The Arts House) and the Supreme Court.
Within walking distance of the hotel, a view opens up to the ultra-modern financial center with its skyscrapers, including the UOB and OCBC towers. Just a few minutes` walk away begins Marina Bay with its futuristic wonders: the Esplanade Theatre, the giant Marina Bay Sands complex, and the sparkling waters of the bay.
