Singapore’s luxury hospitality landscape is constantly shifting. In 2025, a wave of high-profile openings is set to redefine the city-state’s high-end accommodation offerings. Among the most anticipated is the rebirth of Hotel Fort Canning as METT Singapore, spearheaded by Dubai-based Sunset Hospitality Group (SHG).
Overview of the current Hotel Fort Canning
The group is known for creating vibey lifestyle destinations in the world’s most hedonistic hotspots, with 85 properties across 25 countries. Think beach clubs, restaurants, bars, hotels, and resorts in places like Dubai, Bodrum in Turkey, and Marbella in Spain. In Singapore, SHG is behind SUSHISAMBA, the pleasure palace occupying the top floor of Capital Tower.
As Singapore continues to cement its position as a hub of hedonism, the luxury hotel sector is experiencing unprecedented growth. The Raffles Sentosa Singapore, which opened in March, promises an ultra-luxurious experience with 62 private pool villas. Meanwhile, the Mandai Rainforest by Banyan Tree, opening in April, will offer a unique eco-resort experience with 338 rooms.
Not to be outdone, Marina Bay Sands (MBS), already an iconic fixture of Singapore’s skyline, is set to expand further with its ambitious Marina Bay Sands IR2 project beginning in mid-2025. This US$8 billion (S$10.8 billion) expansion will add a 570-suite hotel tower and 15,000-seat entertainment arena, among others.
Amid this flurry of redevelopment, SHG’s transformation of Hotel Fort Canning into METT Singapore come October 2025 stands out as a project that marries heritage with modern luxury. The brand defines modern luxury as relaxed, approachable hospitality that prioritises guest comfort and experience-driven offerings.
METT hotels are characterised by their minimalist design, no-frills service, and a focus on creating spaces that bring people together to “celebrate life”. It’s all about authentic, immersive experiences rather than formal, white-gloved luxury. James Burton, Vice President of SHG Asia, emphasises the importance of authenticity, adaptability, and personalisation in today's hospitality market.
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L-R: Philipp Knuepfer, Chief Operating Officer, SHG and James Burton, Vice President, SHG Asia
“Brands must balance local cultural relevance with global standards, leverage technology to enhance the guest journey, and consistently deliver exceptional service that resonates with modern travellers’ values and lifestyles,” Burton explains.
He cites SUSHISAMBA as a prime example of this approach, where the convergence of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cultures is not just a concept but a fully realised experience, from the flavours on the plate to the authentic Samba dancers engaging with diners.
- A DEEP HISTORICAL CONNECTION TO SINGAPORE
A Deep Historical Connection to Singapore
The transformation of Hotel Fort Canning into METT Singapore isn’t merely a rebranding exercise, but a reimagining of a historic landmark. Originally built in 1926 as the British Far East Command Headquarters, the property served as the British military administration building during WWII and was later occupied by the Japanese Military during the Occupation from 1942 to 1945.
In 2011, the building was meticulously restored and transformed into a luxury heritage hotel, earning the Urban Redevelopment Authority's (URA) Architectural Heritage Awards for its successful conversion.
Burton emphasises the strategic importance of the acquisition: “Hotel Fort Canning is a landmark property with a deep historical connection to Singapore. Transforming it into METT Singapore allows us to honour its heritage while introducing a fresh, vibrant lifestyle concept to one of Asia's most dynamic cities, which strengthens our regional presence.”
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“Hotel Fort Canning is a landmark property with a deep historical connection to Singapore. Transforming it into METT Singapore allows us to honour its heritage while introducing a fresh, vibrant lifestyle concept." - James Burton
The incorporation of local culture and heritage into the design and operations of METT Singapore is a key focus for SHG. Philipp Knuepfer, Chief Operating Officer of SHG, elaborates on this approach: “We're deeply committed to preserving and celebrating the property's rich heritage while infusing it with the modern, vibrant ethos of the METT brand. This includes preserving key architectural elements, integrating local artistry and traditional materials into the interiors, and offering curated experiences that showcase Singapore's heritage.”
Knuepfer outlines the unique features guests can expect at METT Singapore: “We're creating vibrant social spaces, offering cultural immersion experiences, and integrating modern luxury seamlessly with the property's historic charm. Our focus is on holistic well-being and signature dining experiences that blend international flavours with local influences."
The transformed METT Singapore will showcase newly designed guestrooms, refreshed public spaces, and upgraded meeting facilities. SHG intends to launch three to four of its signature dining concepts, including a beach club transformed from the existing swimming pool and a speakeasy to add a nightlife element. These additions aim to create a comprehensive lifestyle destination that appeals to both hotel guests and locals, fostering a sense of community and vibrancy within the property.
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“By positioning METT Singapore as a flagship property, we aim to set the benchmark for our expansion in Asia, showcasing our commitment to redefining hospitality in the region.” - Philipp Knuepfer
This transformation aligns perfectly with SHG's vision for luxury hospitality in Southeast Asia. Knuepfer states: “By positioning METT Singapore as a flagship property, we aim to set the benchmark for our expansion in Asia, showcasing our commitment to redefining hospitality in the region.”
Indeed, SHG's ambitions in Asia are far-reaching. Knuepfer reveals: “Our primary goal in the Asian market is to expand the METT Hotels & Resorts brand to 10 to 12 properties over the next few years. With two hotels currently under renovation and development in Singapore, we are excited to establish a strong foothold in the region. Our preferred destinations for growth include Indonesia, Thailand, Japan, China, Vietnam, and the Maldives.”
The transformation of Hotel Fort Canning into METT Singapore is more than just a single property development; it represents a broader shift in the luxury hospitality sector. As hotels move away from traditional notions of opulence towards more experiential, culturally-rich offerings, projects like METT Singapore serve as bellwethers for the industry's future direction.
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