Harilela Hotels is extending its footprint into Southeast Asia with the announcement of The Hari Singapore, slated to open in Spring 2027. The property will become the brand's third location, joining existing hotels in London's Belgravia and Hong Kong's Wan Chai district.
Strategic Expansion into Singapore's Luxury Market
The Hari Singapore will occupy the site of the current Holiday Inn Singapore Orchard City Centre, which will undergo a complete transformation into a 326-room luxury hotel. The development includes a rooftop pool, executive lounge, multiple dining venues, wellness facilities, and the brand's signature rotating art program.
Dr. Aron Harilela, founder of Harilela Hotels, commented: "This hotel, like our sister properties in Belgravia and Wan Chai, will embody relaxed elegance punctuated by eccentricity, wit, culture and genuine heartfelt hospitality. Singapore is key to our ambition to evolve The Hari in major international destinations."
The expansion comes as Singapore's hospitality sector continues to attract luxury brands, with the city-state positioning itself as a hub for high-end travel and business. The property will cater to both leisure and corporate travelers, leveraging its Orchard Road location near shopping, dining, and convention facilities.
Design and Brand Philosophy
British interior designer Tara Bernerd, who shaped the aesthetic of both The Hari London and The Hari Hong Kong, will lead the design for the Singapore property. Her approach balances contemporary elegance with local cultural references, creating layered interiors that feel both sophisticated and welcoming.
The hotel will feature a revolving roster of artwork, a hallmark of the brand that showcases emerging and established artists. This program aligns with Singapore's growing reputation as a cultural destination, supported by initiatives like the Singapore Art Week and the opening of new museums.
Harilela Hotels is a family-owned hospitality group with roots in Hong Kong. The company's portfolio also includes the Hari-branded properties and other ventures across Asia. The Singapore project marks the group's first foray into Southeast Asia, a region seeing increased hotel investment from both international chains and independent operators.
Industry observers note that the conversion of an existing hotel into a luxury property is a cost-effective strategy for brands seeking to enter prime markets without the lengthy timelines of ground-up construction. The Orchard Road corridor remains one of Singapore's most competitive hotel districts, with properties from IHG, Marriott, Accor, and Hilton all present.
Travel professionals should monitor this development as it adds inventory to Singapore's luxury segment, potentially affecting rate strategies for competitors. The property's opening in 2027 aligns with projected growth in Asia-Pacific business travel and MICE demand, as highlighted by recent reports from the Global Business Travel Association.
For agents and tour operators, The Hari Singapore offers a new option for clients seeking boutique luxury with a strong design identity. The brand's existing properties in London and Hong Kong have cultivated a loyal following among affluent travelers who value personalized service and curated experiences.
