Built
on top of a small hill to enjoy the natural sea breeze surrounding Sentosa,
these two typical military barrack blocks were originally the living quarters
of British soldiers before and after
World War II. Now, they have been tastefully transformed into luxurious hotel
suites of Amara Sanctuary Resort Sentosa for world-weary travellers to rest and
relax in.
Going Green
These two double-storey blocks were built in the 1920s. Each block featured six
interconnected units with external and internal concrete staircases, and
spacious verandahs and courtyards that allowed occupants to come into close
contact with the lush greenery that surrounded the blocks.
When restoration began, the architects sought to maintain this harmonious
relationship between buildings and nature, cautiously working around many
mature trees during the refurbishment process. The 3R principle was adhered to.
Detailed structural investigation and photographic survey were carried out.
Something Old, Something New
In converting the original 12 units into 20 new hotel suites, namely the Courtyard
Suites at the first storey and the Verandah Suites at the second storey, the
interiors were configured for hotel guests to enjoy the existing greenery,
natural ventilation and peaceful surroundings. The original timber louvred
windows and doors and balustrades were reinstated. Internal staircases were
removed and new flights of stairs were added at the end of the block. The
terracotta roofs of both blocks were cleaned and damaged tiles were replaced
with those salvaged from the demolition of similar-aged buildings nearby.
Ornate columns and intricate cornices were kept while damaged ones were replaced with
replicas. Likewise, with careful research, existing railings were reinstated
with new ones that matched the original design. Other reminders of the
building’s past were thoughtfully retained – sole cleaners at the front of each
unit for soldiers to remove mud from their boots were kept while existing air
raid shelters outside the blocks were also retained.
For modern comforts, dilapidated outhouses in the rear yards made way for new
courtyards complete with baths and jacuzzis. No effort was spared in
landscaping. A newly designed ginger garden was even created to blend
completely with the original vegetation.
A Tropical Oasis
Turning two unused army barracks into a modern luxurious hotel may be an impossible
mission for many, but the results show
that an eco-sanctuary with a tropical touch and resort feel has been
successfully created through careful planning and thoughtful restoration.