The iconic Raffles Hotel Singapore officially reopened in August 2019 after being restored and refurbished by architectural firm Aedas. The firm used a multi-disciplinary team for the restoration of the hotel featuring heritage consultant Studio Lapis, interior designer Alexandra Chamalimaud and concept interior designer Jouin Maku (BBR Restaurant by Chef Alain Ducasse). Their aim was to restore the building’s original glory from its opening in 1887 through integrating its heritage splendor with modern spatial designs that will uphold its vitality for a further 100 years.
As part of the refurbishment, Aedas created a high end Chinese restaurant owned by celebrity Chef Jereme Leung in the hotel. The design story of Restaurant Yi reflects the Chinese Creation Myth of the creation of Heaven and Earth by the god Pangu. It also celebrates the concept of passing on family roots and values over generations. Lead Interior Designer Aedas aimed to use modern and progressive story-telling and reinterpretation to create a hidden world in the historical landmark for guests to explore.