Hayden to build first Ritz-Carlton condo in Asia

HAYDEN Properties has clinched the rights to build the first Ritz-Carlton Residences in Asia, after pursuing the luxury brand for months.

Hayden director Ong Chih Ching said that negotiations between the two parties stretched over nine months, with over 600 e-mails sent.

Speaking at a press conference to announce the partnership yesterday, she added in good humour that the negotiations had been ‘hard work’.

There are currently 16 Ritz-Carlton Residences in the world and Ms Ong said that to be branded one, stringent requirements have to be met, including limiting the number of units an individual can buy.

Prices for the 58-unit development in Cairnhill have not been fixed yet but Ms Ong said it will be priced ‘at the top end of the market’.

Ritz-Carlton’s regional vice-president (sales and marketing) Asia-Pacific, Simon Manning, said that unlike some other branded residences here, the Hayden development will be completely managed by Ritz-Carlton.

This will involve training and managing the staff who will provide housekeeping, 24-hour concierge, sommeliers and doormen services. It will not, however, have an equity stake in the development.

A relatively new player in the real estate industry here, boutique developer Hayden has already scored a couple of firsts in the market.

Not only has it secured the Ritz-Carlton brand for its Cairnhill property (formerly Horizon View), it earlier announced that it would be the first to provide living room-carparking for its 56-unit Scotts Road condo development, formerly the Hotel Asia.

Launch dates for both developments have not been fixed.

Hayden is a 50/50 joint venture between Singapore-based KOP Capital and Emirates Investment Group-linked Emirates Tarian Capital (ETC).

Hayden director Kunalan Sivapuniam, who is also managing director at ETC, said it was looking for more development opportunities in the region.

Middle-East investors have been increasingly making their presence felt in Singapore recently and Mr Sivapuniam puts this down to a need to ‘diversify’.

He also said there is a lot of liquidity in the Middle-East and exposure to the US sub-prime market and the credit crisis is minimal.

‘Post 11 September 2001 (9/11), a lot of Middle-East investments were made away from the US,’ he explained.

Emirates Investment Group’s real estate portfolio is worth over US$500 million and includes Palazzo Versace Gold Coast in Australia.

Source : Business Times – 04 Sep 2007

Ritz-Carlton Residences in S’pore a first in Asia

Well-heeled fans of the Ritz-Carlton’s luxury accommodation will soon be able to buy homes in Singapore that come stamped with the five-star hotel brand.

Asia’s first Ritz-Carlton Residences will be launched for sale in Singapore late next month, with 56 apartment units and two penthouses up for grabs.

The 36-storey tower will be built in Cairnhill Road on the former Horizon View site, and will be completed by early 2010.

Residents will enjoy a 24-hour concierge service, housekeeping and sommelier service. All the staff will be trained and managed by Ritz-Carlton.

While the apartment prices have not yet been finalised, Ritz-Carlton’s vice-president of international hotel development, Shawn Hill, said the hotel’s branded apartments usually fetch up to 50 per cent more than comparable non-branded homes.

“Typically, comparing against non-branded residential properties, we see a 20 to 50 per cent premium over the highest-end homes in each market,” he told The Straits Times.

There are currently 32 other Ritz-Carlton Residences around the world, including in New York, Boston, Hawaii and the Bahamas. Similar projects are in the pipeline in Europe and the Middle East, Hill said.

In Asia, Singapore was chosen for the residences’ debut over cities such as Kuala Lumpur and Tokyo, where Ritz-Carlton has service apartments.

“We chose Singapore because we consider it to be a pace-setter in the region, and it’s a highly sought-after city to live in,” explained Hill.

“Singapore, as a city, has some of its own branding and a very strong international appeal. It represents a high quality of living as well as stability.”

But the group is also looking at building more of such homes in other “gateway cities” in Asia, including Hong Kong, Shanghai, Tokyo, Ho Chi Minh City and Jakarta, Hill added.

The Singapore project is a partnership between Ritz-Carlton and Hayden Properties–a 50:50 joint venture between real estate firm KOP Capital and Emirates Investment Group unit Emirates Tarian Capital.

Hayden, which was set up last October, is also the developer behind the luxury project at 37 Scotts Road that boasts a garage in every apartment.

The Ritz-Carlton Residences in Singapore will offer units in three sizes. The three-bedroom units will be 2,800 sq ft while the four-bedders will be 3,100 sq ft and the penthouses will weigh in at more than 5,000 sq ft.

Each unit will have designer fittings and appliances. The property will also have a lap pool, library, wine cellar, and a kitchen and entertainment area managed by the Ritz-Carlton.

Monthly maintenance fees for the apartments may add up to between S$2,000 (US$1,314) and S$3,000 ($1,971), said Ong Chih Ching, Hayden’s founder and lead director.

She said the trend of hotel-branded residences is set to grow in Asia, as homebuyers become more affluent.

“Apart from the luxurious hardware that you will see in buildings, the other thing that buyers will look for is service. A lot of the hotel chains have good reputations for their service.”

Other hotel-branded residences in Singapore include Four Seasons Park and St Regis Residences.

Ku Swee Yong, director of marketing and business development at Savills Singapore, agreed that more co-branded apartments will emerge, and not just involving hotels.

“The co-branding trend includes architects, designers, fashion labels such as Armani and Versace, and these will put Singapore on the world map.”

He expects foreigners to make up most of the buyers of the Ritz-Carlton apartments. These could “definitely fetch a minimum” of S$4,000 ($2,628) per sq ft, which is at least 20 per cent more than current prices in Cairnhill, he said.

Highlights of Ritz-Carlton Residences:

- Ritz-Carlton Residences in Singapore will offer 56 apartment units and two penthouses.

- The 36-storey tower in Cairnhill will be completed by early 2010.

- Residents will enjoy a 24-hour concierge service, housekeeping and sommelier service.

- Similar projects are in the pipeline in Europe and the Middle East.

- The group is also eyeing other ‘gateway cities’ in Asia such as Hong Kong, Shanghai, Tokyo, Ho Chi Minh City and Jakarta. 

Source : Straits Times – 4 Sept 2007

Good class bungalow sold for record $29m

A GOOD class bungalow at 15 White House Park has become mainland Singapore’s most expensive, after it was sold for a record $1,308 per sq ft (psf) – eight years after the historic property was restored and put on sale.

The 22,000 sq ft conservation bungalow – called Glencaird – was sold to a Singaporean for $28.8 million, Wheelock Properties said in a statement yesterday.

Wheelock has been managing the property for Oroll, a wholly-owned unit of The Wharf (Holdings), which is also owned by Wheelock’s parent, Wheelock and Company.

Glencaird is one of 12 luxury bungalows that make up The Glencaird Residences and the only conservation bungalow in the series.

Oroll developed the bungalows.

The other 11 bungalows have already been sold at an average price of $838 psf.

Before it finally found a buyer, Glencaird – a restored, 105-year- old Victorian bungalow with five bedrooms – had sat empty since its completion in 1999.

‘We received several offers for Glencaird over the years,’ said Mr David Lawrence, Wheelock’s chief executive officer, in the statement.

‘However, we felt they were not reflective of the value, given that this is a very unique conservation piece in an excellent location.’

Prior to Glencaird’s sale, the record for mainland Singapore’s priciest bungalow was held by 63 Dalvey Road – sold in March for $16.45 million, or $1,091 psf.

On Sentosa, the highest price fetched by a bungalow plot is $1,473 psf.

Good class bungalows, Singapore’s most prestigious homes, are now enjoying astronomical asking prices amid the property boom.

Source : Straits Times – 30 Aug 2007

Cairnhill Crest

Cairnhill Crest is located in the Cairnhill district of Singapore. The luxurious residential development comprises 3 towers, offering one-to four-bedroom units. It also boasts a clubhouse designed by the renowned architect, Norman Foster. Cairnhill Crest can be accessed via Orchard Road and is nearby Orchard MRT Station. 

Quite simply one of Singapore’s most desired freehold addresses, Cairnhill Crest is an oasis of tranquility ensconced in prime district 9. Surrounded by lush vegetation, Cairnhill Crest is based around a unique garden concept, where you’ll find the greenery of landscaped English lawns complemented by modern tropical gardens. The contemporary elegance of Cairnhill Crest blends perfectly with the old-world charm of the conserved terraced houses and bungalows that pepper Cairnhill and Emerald Hill. The result is a stunning blend of pedigree and heritage. 

A sheltered cove of lush foliage and spreading trees, Cairnhill Crest sits comfortably framed by Orchard Road, Clemenceau Avenue and Scotts Road. This enviable location gives residents easy access to Orchard, Somerset and Newton MRT stations, top schools, premier club like the American and Tanglin Clubs as well as the finest shopping, dining and entertainment hubs of Singapore such as Takashimaya and Paragon Shopping Centres. 

Cairnhill Crest offers a full complement of luxurious amenities benefiting its glamorous status. The attentive services, lush landscaping, and comprehensive facilities including an opulent Residents Club, simply take your breath away. Lift lobbies on each floor are fitted with imported marble tiles and a grand crystal chandelier. Top international brands such as Miele and Poggenpohl create a modern, stylish, and highly functional living environment that pleases the senses and adds aesthetic value to your home.  

Location: Cairnhill Circle (District 9)
Tenure: Freehold
Year of Completion: 2004
Site Area: 157,000 sqft
Total Units: 248 in three 20-storey towers

Unit Types:
2 BR ~ 1,927 – 1,938 sq ft (ground floor)
3 BR + study ~ 1,701 – 1,733 sq ft
3 BR + study ~ 2,637 – 2,971 sq ft (ground floor)
4 BR ~ 1,970 – 2,013 sq ft
4 BR ~ 2,960 sq ft (ground floor)
5 BR maisonettes ~ 3,466 sq ft
7 BR maisonettes ~ 3,940 – 4,026 sq ft
Penthouses ~ 2,422 – 3,057 sq ft (3 BR)
Penthouses ~ 2,669 – 2,691 sq ft (4 BR) 

Facilities:
Lap pool
Wading pool
Clubhouse
Social hall
Hydro-Spa pool
Champagne pool
Garden pavilion
Lotus & Lily pond
Putting green
Basketball practice court
Fitness stations
Sauna
Tennis
Gym
Playground
BBQ corner
24 hours security
Covered car park  

Rental Price: Average $7.5psf
Purchase Price: From $2400psf 

Email lushhome@gmail.com for units’ availability or viewing appointment.

Reflections at Keppel Bay

The Daniel Libeskind showcase

Daniel Libeskind’s first residential showcase in Asia has its platform in Singapore in Keppel Bay. His iconic design for Reflections at Keppel Bay will put Singapore on the world map for luxury waterfront homes.

Reflections at Keppel Bay comprises a total of 1,129 luxurious waterfront condominium units housed in six glass towers of 24 storeys and 41 storeys as well as 11 blocks of 6- to 8-storey villa blocks. It offers choice units of 1- to 4-bedroom apartments and penthouses with sizes ranging from 700 sqft to a super penthouse of 13,300 sqft. The Libeskind development will sit on a land size of approximately 84,000 sqm with an extensive shoreline of 750 m. 

The towers will all be topped with sky gardens on sloping roof lines. Sky bridges will connect each pair of towers, providing pockets of open spaces high above the ground and platforms for appreciating the panoramic views of the sea and the lush surroundings. 

This iconic development will feature a sculpture-like clubhouse with a full range of recreational facilities to meet the lifestyle of discerning homeowners. Every detail and aspect of design will optimise interaction with the sea and the commanding views of its scenic surrounds including Mount Faber, Keppel Club Golf Course, Labrador Park, Sentosa Island and its upcoming integrated resort, and the city skyline.  

Homeowners of this exclusive development will enjoy a 10-year complimentary membership to the 170-berth Marina at Keppel Bay when it is completed and opened in December 2007. Located on Keppel Island and linked to the mainland by a landmark cable-stayed bridge that will be completed in mid-2007, Marina at Keppel Bay will be able to accommodate yachts of between 100 and 200 ft long.  

Members will enjoy lifestyle facilities that include a clubhouse with a member’s lounge, gourmet restaurants, recreational amenities and leisure charter services to access neighbouring islands.

Location: Keppel Bay (District 4)
Tenure: 99-year leasehold
Expected TOP: 2013
Total Units: 1,129
Building: 6 tower blocks (combination of 41/24 storeys) and 11 low rise villas (combination of 6/7/8 storeys) 

Unit Types:
1BR + study ~ 732 to 800 sqft (6 units)
2BR & 2BR + study ~ 743 to 1,001 sqft & 947 to 1,335 sqft (398 units)
3BR ~ 1,109 to 2,142 sqft (589 units)
4BR & 4BR + study ~ 1,938 to 2,831 sqft & 2,530 to 2,874 sqft (132 units)
Penthouse ~ 3,488 to 12,900 sqft (35 units)

Facilities:
Double storey clubhouse
Landscaped sky bridges
Gymnasium
Full-length Olympic pool, children’s pool, Jacuzzi, lap pool
Two tennis courts
Water features including a 100,000 sq ft reflecting pool

Signature waterfront living in Keppel Bay to attract world luxury home collectors

Home-grown multi-national corporation, Keppel Corporation, through property arm, Keppel Land, continues to contribute to shaping Singapore’s skyline and fabric of city living in Singapore’s next phase of growth.

Keppel Bay is set to put Singapore on the world’s prime real estate map as a true waterfront precinct comprising an iconic residential development designed by world renowned architect, Daniel Libeskind; the FIABCI-award winning condominium, Caribbean at Keppel Bay; a world-class marina, Marina@Keppel Bay; and the new landmark cable-stayed bridge linking the mainland to the marina. 

Located just a five-minute drive away from the Central Business District, Keppel Bay is part of the vibrant waterfront city in southern Singapore comprising Sentosa and the upcoming Sentosa Integrated Resort, Harbourfront and VivoCity, Singapore’s largest entertainment and recreation hub. 

Keppel Bay enjoys the rare confluence of location strengths – of being near the city yet within one of Singapore’s best-loved nature and recreation enclaves.  Combining the best in waterfront and urban lifestyles, Keppel Bay redefines premier waterfront living befitting Singapore’s position as a vibrant global city. 

Email lushhome@gmail.com for more information or an appointment.

Grange Residences

Grange Residences occupies a prime location in the residential heart of Singapore, at the junction of Tanglin Road and Grange Road – two of the most desirable residential address in the city. There is also the added benefit of being just a short walk from the magnificent Botanic Gardens and the myriad attractions of Orchard Road.

Grange Residences remains a special and remarkably private address, enhancing the experience of living in an exclusive neighbourhood. Spreading over 167,000 square feet of land, Grange Residences provides a liberating sense of space and light that spans over spectacular views of both the city and greenery. 

Grange Residences is one of Singapore best condominium development with a luxurious design, both on the interiors and exteriors. Its impeccable design and clean lines is a prominent landmark in the Tanglin Road vicinity. Its location makes it a preferred choice by many buyers and expats who enjoy a short walk to the Tanglin Mall, Tanglin Post Office or Botanic Gardens. Consisting of two 18-storeys and an 8 storey block, all units in this condominium have high ceilings, private lift lobbies and a good sized balcony. 

Location: 91, 93, 95 Grange Road (District 10)
Developer: Wheelock Properties Ltd
Tenure: Freehold
Year of Completion: 2004
Total Units: 164 in 2 towers of 18-storey and 1 tower of 8-storey
Unit Types: 4 + 1 bedrooms – 2486, 2583, 2669, 2852 sqft

Facilities:
State-of-the-art gym
Lush landscaped gardens
Two outdoor glass pavilions
40-metre lap pool
Play pool
Children’s play area
Tennis court 

Features:
High ceiling foyer at the entrance of each tower
Private lift lobby in each tower
Separate European and Asian kitchens
Leicht kitchen system
Gaggenau hobs and hoods, dishwasher, microwave oven and multifunction oven
Amana refrigerator
Transtherm wine cooler
Designer brands in bathrooms: Philippe Starck Edition 2; Villeroy and Boch

Asking Sale Prices: Average $2800psf
Asking Rent Prices: From $18,000 per month 

The distinctive style of Grange Residences is accentuated within each home by clean, linear interior architecture. Coupled with well-planned layouts and top-of-the-line home fittings, the home itself becomes a work of modern art. 

Representing timeless modernity, Grange Residences possesses a design that is destined to make an arresting and articulate visual statement in one of the most covet residential districts of Singapore.

Email lushhome@gmail.com for units’ availability and viewing appointments.

The Orange Grove

The Orange Grove, a home that stands the test of time in every way. Located within the prestigious enclave of Orange Grove Road, The Orange Grove has an address that commands only the best, and stands out as a beacon of luxury and allure. 

The Orange Grove is designed to take full advantage of its natural surroundings. From this unrivalled vantage point, savour spectacular views of both the city skyline as well as the neighbouring lush greenery.  

With just 72 apartments, enjoy an uncommon exclusivity at The Orange Grove. Take your pick from a collection of 3 and 4-bedroom apartments as well as uber-luxurious penthouses, all designed to meet your demanding tastes.  

A glittering lounge pool beckons as you arrive home, promising a moment of tranquility before more serious action at the lap pool. The clubhouse, a striking glass box overlooking the pool, houses the gymnasium as well. The family is not forgotten; a children’s pool, jacuzzi pool, BBQ pits and a pool deck for private functions, lavishly equipped for your every need! 

At The Orange Grove, you are in a position to make the most of life. Just a 1-minute drive away is Orchard Road, Singapore’s premier shopping, dining and entertainment belt, and the epicentre of all that is hip and happening. Constantly reinventing itself, this retail therapy heaven promises to excite even the most seasoned of shoppers.  

The Orange Grove is also in close proximity to prestigious schools like Anglo Chinese Primary School, Singapore Chinese Girls’ School, Raffles Girls’ Secondary School and St Joseph’s Institution.  

Location: Orange Grove Road (District 10)
Total Units: 72
Expected Completion: 1 May 2010
Unit Types:
3BR ~ 2153-2777sqft
4BR ~ 2691-3488sqft
Penthouses ~ 3789-5490sqft

Expected Price: $2800-3300psf (Normal & Deferred Payment Schemes)

Email lushhome@gmail.com for special preview invitations.

Luma @ River Valley Grove

Luma puts you at the centre of everything you’ve come to expect and deserve. In prestigious District 9, explore the bustle of an ever-growing metropolitan in Central Business District or explore an ever-changing palette of recreational options at Mohamed Sultan, Clarke Quay and Robertson Quay. With reputable schools and institutions closeby, spend less time on the road and more time enjoying life to the fullest. 

First impressions are unquestionably important. A cut above the rest, Luma proves that style and substance are alive. Towering at 106m akin to a 36-storey building, the 27-storey development comprising 75 exclusive units takes a modern opulence to another level. Luxury lovers will adore the uncommon flavours of this minimalist masterpiece whose clean lines give way to open spaces and full-height glass architecture reflects colourful surprises at every turn. 

Waking up the rising sun and invite friends to barbecue on the rooftop pavilion by moonlight. There’s plenty to do and view to keep your senses entertained at the rooftop sky terrace. Feel on top of the world with a function room that is designed to cater to any occasion from private parties to social functions. With swimming pool and elevated water jet corner that open up to the city skies, retreat to you personal oasis in the sky. 

Elevating the ambience are the sophisticated interiors, which pair form and function seamlessly. Just by simply connecting to the Internet with your PDA or laptop. Get in touch with home, control air conditioning and water heater systems or indulge in pulsating light, using pre-programmed mood setting that allows for different light scenarios. With designer switches that add a modish touch to the apartments, the state-of-the-art home has all the luxurious details you desire. Featuring 3 units per floor, Luma makes it easier to enjoy a private and complete, balance living. 

Location: River Valley Grove (District 9)
Tenure: Freehold
Expected Completion: June 2011
Total Units: 75 (1 tower of 27 storey) 

Unit Types:
1br ~ 743sqft
2br ~ 904-1173sqft 

Facilities:
Sky terrace 1 (2nd storey)
Swimming pool
Wading pool
Heated and cold water jet corner
Gymnasium
BBQ area
Children’s playground
Changing room
Sky terrace 2 (roof)
Swimming pool
Water jet corner
Function room
Roof top pavilion
BBQ area
Changing room 

Expected Price: $3000psf onwards 

Email lushhome@gmail.com for private previews and more information.

Boulevard Vue @ Cuscaden Walk

Boulevard Vue. Located off Orchard Boulevard. It is just a stone’s throw away from the world renowned shopping paradise and the bustling night life of Singapore.Imagine living in a bungalow in the sky. That’s what you will experience as a resident of this prestigious project.

Only 28 exclusive units are housed within this 144m tall tower. Offering only 26 typical units of 4500sqft and 2 penthouses of 7227sqft and 9930sqft. Only one unit occupies the entire floor, thus you can enjoy total privacy to the fullest. Every unit has 2 private lifts, allowing you to reach the comfort of your home in double quick time.

No details are spared to give you the luxury of space and a touch of class. Every apartment has a full-glass facade, offering panoramic views of Orchard Road and the Business district. Two large balconies provides ample space for outdoor furniture, jacuzzi and BBQ equipments.  

Flustered about where to park your Ferraris, Lamborghinis or Bentley convertibles? You don’t have to worry now as you are entitled to a 3-lot personal garage at the project’s basement carpark. 24-hour Concierge service is also avail in this project, so you don’t have to worry about getting airline tickets for your last min trip or making reservations at a popular 5-stars restaurant. If poolside parties are your forte, Boulevard Vue offers chef-on-demand to cook delicious food for the occasion at the Gourmet outdoor kitchen. Your guests can enjoy alfresco dining experience in the moonlit ambience.  

Location: Cuscaden Walk (District 9)
Tenure: Freehold
Expected TOP: 2011
Site Area: 44,732sqft
Total Units: 28 in one 33 storey tower
Total Carpark Lots: 138
Est. Price: $4500psf onwards from 4th floor 

Unit Types:
4 bedrooms ~ 3758 sqft
Lower Penthouse ~ 5480 sqft
Upper Penthouse ~ 5433 sqft  

Facilities:
Pool Deck
25sqm infinity lap pool
Lounge
Spa Pool
Sun Deck
Gym
Children’s Play Area / Lawn 

Features:
Prestigious Address along Boulevard Road
Unique ‘Bungalows in the sky’
Units only available from level 7 onwards
24h concierge services
Drop-off point at first level & basement 1 for residents’ convenience
Large Balconies as sky gardens
Outdoor gourmet kitchen cum entertainment area
Lush Tropical Landscape 

Email lushhome@gmail.com for invitation to special preview.

One Shenton

One Shenton – This architectural iconic jewel designed by world-renowned architect Carlos Otts comprises 341 apartments and penthouses. Soaring with twin towers at 50 and 42 storeys high, One Shenton will dramatically enhance Singapore’s Skyline, offering residents spectacular unforgettable views of the energetic city, green parks and soothing waters. One Shenton is perfect for those seeking a seamless connection to live, work and play 24/7.  

Located in the heart of the new vibrant city, it sits at the edge of Marina Bay, within close proximity to the Integrated Resort, Business Financial Centre, Raffles MRT Station and proposed ‘Landmark’ MRT Station. Inner-city living is set to be dynamically transformed as activities at the new Marina Bay, including a host of convention, leisure, commercial and entertainment facilities at the Integrated Resort, waterfront promenades, Gardens by the Bay will keep you busy around the clock. At One Shenton, you will be at the centre where it all happens. 

Location: 1 Shenton Way (District 1)
Tenure: 99 years from 14 October 2005
Expected TOP: Sept 2011
Site Area: 40,369sqftD
evelopment: A twin tower residential development with retail space on first storey
Storey Height: Tower 1 (50 Sty), Tower 2 (43 Sty)
Total Car park lots: 383
Total Units: 341 

Unit Types:
1BR / 1BR + study ~ 517-1,001sqft
2BR ~ 904-1,227sqft
3BR ~ 1,485-1,604sqft
4BR ~ 1,787-2,271sqft
Sky Suite ~ 5,199-6,082sqft
Sky Villa ~ 6,674-9,085sqft 

Recreational Facilities:
Lobby Level (Ground Level)
Concierge, Lounge
Club Level (Level 8 )
Lap Pool, Leisure Pool, Jet Pool, Wading Pool, Bridge Lounge, Landscape Feature Pond, Social Patio, Sun Deck, Cabanas, Function Room, Entertainment Terrace, Outdoor Gourmet Cooking, Theatrette/ Entertainment Room, Lounge/ Refreshment/ Juice Bar, Games Rooms, Library, Outdoor Reading, Laundry Room
Wellness Level (Level 24 & 25)
Sky Gym, Sky Lounge, Spa Garden, Spa Lounge, Outdoor Exercise Terrace, Relaxation Alcove, Yoga Terrace 

Email lushhome@gmail.com for available units and pricing.