The newly-built M Social Singapore (which officially opened on 09 June 2016) offers 293 beautifully appointed rooms along an idyllic stretch of Robertson Quay. - check out photos from the media preview HERE! Only a few months old, the M Social Singapore is frequently confused with Studio M - a much older property by the same hospitality arm that features loft-style living as well. Just to set the record straight, M Social Singapore is NOT the Studio M (they are located in different places) and it is definitely a much nicer property in various aspects.
Loft Gallery
M Social Singapore
I spent two nights at the M Social Singapore in a Loft Gallery - as mentioned in my previous article, there are four room types here - and it offers loft-style living in the heart of Robertson Quay. Before anyone is confused, the previously-known Big Room has now been given a sexier name - the Loft Gallery. You may also opt for a Loft Terrace (previously known as Bigger Room )which is essentially a Loft Gallery with a semi-private outdoor terrace - the reason why I am calling it semi-private is because your neighbour will be able to peek into your balcony if he or she really wanted to.
Loft Gallery
M Social Singapore
Previously known as the Big Room, the Loft Gallery in M Social Singapore comes with 22 sqm of intimately-designed space. These loft-inspired rooms have high ceilings to create a greater sense of space and there is even a dedicated work and living area on the bottom level. My understanding is that the beds are located on the mezzanine level while some are located on ground level across the same room type.
Loft Gallery
M Social Singapore
The Loft Gallery room comes with a 40-inch HDTV with bluetooth ingration and a selection of cable channels. As I have mentioned before, if your bed happens to be on the ground floor, the TV will actually be on the mezzanine level (which I personally will not like as much). You will also be able to find a Handy' smartphone that offers unlimited international and local calls, unlimited 3G data and city guide access. I love the extremely-tall windows where plenty of natural light can enter (if you allow it to) and the way the blinds can be drawn effortlessly. Basic coffee and tea-making facilities (read water kettle and tea bags) are also provided in the room and the mini bar fridge is empty for your personal usage. I did find the drinking cups provided in the room a little strange though - they were super lightweight and seem to conduct a lot of heat which is not particularly ideal if you are making yourself a hot beverage.
Bathroom - Loft Gallery
M Social Singapore
The bathroom is pretty basic so do not expect to find a deep-soaking tub here. With that being said, the bathroom is actually pretty impressive - I love how those shower blinds can be closed with the turn of a dial! In case you have not noticed yet, the sink and tap is actually located outside of the bathroom which may seem like a pretty strange idea but if you are sharing the room, you might find some appreciation on this matter in the morning.
Bath Amenities - Loft Gallery
M Social Singapore
While I was there, the bath amenities were provided by an English brand - Storm but I believe this has been changed since then.
View from Top - Loft Gallery
M Social Singapore
I really like that the bedroom is on the mezzanine level as compared to being on the ground floor - otherwise, really, I do not think I will find enough motivation to climb those stairs just to watch some TV (especially since I have got my iPad and Netflix on me). Obviously I did not give up the opportunity to take the highly typical shot from top to bottom.
Bedroom - Loft Gallery
M Social Singapore
As mentioned before, the bed for me was located on the mezzanine level in the Loft Gallery and by each sides of the bed, you will find a control to control the lights. What I loved most about this feature was the ability to dim and adjust the lights to the right amount you needed it for - obviously the required lights for reading and watching a show on Netflix is completely different. The beds are also really comfortable and the fact that you have nothing but the bed around you makes this feels like a really private space for you to enjoy a quality night's sleep.
Breakfast at Beast & Butterflies
M Social Singapore
As my room package did come with complimentary breakfast (I do believe the opening offers all come with free breakfast at Beast & Butterflies for now), I decided to head downstairs to check out the spread. There is only one restaurant in M Social Singapore and that's the Beast & Butterflies. This versatile dining space which functions as an all-day dining restaurant converts itself into a bar and restaurant in the evening with really cool features like iPads on the walls and glitzy lights - check out more here!
Breakfast at Beast & Butterflies
M Social Singapore
While the spread at breakfast isn't exactly jaw-dropping, in fact, I would say there is a rather limited variety, it is important to remember that the M Social Singapore is a boutique hotel property after all. I did find it strange that I was not offered coffee or tea after being seated on both morning that I was there though. With that being said, there are two coffee machines that are located towards the end of the restaurant where you can make yourself a cup though. Since the hotel is located in Robertson Quay, you might want to skip the coffee altogether and grab a good one in the vicinity - I recommend Toby's Estate!
Breakfast at Beast & Butterflies
M Social Singapore
While the breakfast spread is not particularly fantastic, the Asian selection was actually really decent. In fact, the congee (not photographed here) was probably one of the best I have had amongst hotel breakfast buffets and this includes even all the five-star properties that I have been in!
Swimming Pool
M Social Singapore
After breakfast, I decided to head up to the swimming pool to have a look since my room was still still being cleaned. While I do like the area around the pool, I thought that the choice of tiles were rather peculiar - it reminded me of a public swimming complex for some reason. Still, the deck chairs are really nice and comfortable to lay on. You do have to get here early (or late!) if you want to lay on them though. As you can see, there are only 10 chairs and since most people come with their partner or friend, there's really only enough for 5 rooms worth of guests.
Swimming Pool
M Social Singapore
Apart from the Four Points by Sheraton Singapore, Riverview that it looks out to, you will also notice the Grand Copthorne Waterfront (which I last stayed in 2014). There is a brand new integrated dining concept at the Grand Copthorne Waterfront and you should check it out if you have not!
Gym
M Social Singapore
There is also a gym located on the same level as the swimming pool. While the area is pretty tiny (the mirror does help to create a greater sense of space though), it has most of what you need for a decent workout. Otherwise, put on your running shoes and enjoy a scenic run along the Robertson Quay area - you may even make it to the Marina Bay and the Gardens by the Bay area depending on how determined you are at running.
Pool Towels
M Social Singapore
Hot and cold water is also provided between the swimming pool and the gym - I thought this was a nice touch even though that mysterious chair there probably serves very little purpose.
Sitting Area
M Social Singapore
Tiles
M Social Singapore
Even though I am a huge fan of hotel loyalty programs (read about the revamped loyalty program here) and I tend to stay within the larger hotel chains just to earn and retain my status each year, the M Social Singapore was a breath of fresh air. It is definitely not a regular cookie-cutter hotel and I appreciate all the tiny details which revealed though in the design process. This 293-room property utilises raw concrete and mixed-media to create a beautifully coherent avant-garde design hotel (by Philippe Starck of course!) that truly stands out from the rest of the competition. I didn't think I would like it as much initially but I have to say that I absolutely love this property and I will definitely be back again soon!
M Social Singapore
90 Robertson Quay, Singapore 238259
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Five nights at Waldorf Astoria Osaka on Hilton Honors points. Art Deco design, a superb bed and a daily credit at the hotel bars, but no upgrade for Diamond members this time.