Studio M Hotel

With its shimmer facade of tinted glass and sleek architectural lines, the Studio M Hotel is strikingly modern. Inside, the lobby is equally impressive in its futuristic minimalism, exemplified in a central molded white reception desk illuminated by cascading rods tipped with LED lights that bounce off the polished stone floors and large-panel windows. Designed by Italian architect Piero Lissoni, Studio M opened in 2010, and Lissoni's distinctive styling can be seen throughout -- from the smart monochrome hallways to minimally elegant terraces with potted palms, pebble-lined ponds, and bright funky furnishings. The vibe is cool, unstuffy, and very 21st century, attracting a mix of business travelers, vacationing couples, and even a fair share of staycationing Singapore residents.

The hotel is located in the Robertson Quay area of Singapore -- a largely residential area popular with locals and expats, though also dotted with plenty of bars and restaurants. There's plenty within walking distance, including the peaceful Fort Canning Park and bustling Chinatown, while the hotel's proximity to Singapore River means guests can use the river taxi to travel to such sights as the Merlion statue, Marina Bay, and the Museum of Asian Civilization. Guests here on business can use river taxis to reach the financial district, which is about a 15-minute cab ride from Studio M. Changi International Airport takes about 25 minutes by car or around an hour via public transportation -- the nearest MRT subway station, Clarke Quay, is about a 10-minute walk from the hotel.

All rooms at the Studio M Hotel are loft style with huge windows stretching from the floor to the ceiling, flooding the two levels with natural light throughout the day. Stairs connect the bedroom space with a living area (with most sleeping areas on the upper mezzanine), while decor blends crisp whites with natural wood and smart contemporary furnishings. Some rooms can feel small and cramped, but some open onto small, furnished terraces with views of the surrounding area. Standard amenities include free high-speed Wi-Fi, tea- and coffee-making facilities, flat-screen TVs with satellite and music channels, mini-fridges, and free water (but no minibar snacks). Bathrooms are tiny and can feel cramped, although toilets are separate from the shower room (there's no tubs). They come with robes and slippers, slick white square sinks, and toiletries.

The open-air, bamboo-themed restaurant Take serves a daily breakfast buffet on the second floor (not included in the standard room rate), and Memo, a deli-style cafe serving a wide range of drinks and snacks, turns into a low-lit bar in the evening. Guests also receive discounts at select local restaurants. A full-length lap pool is available -- though it would be tough to accommodate more than two serious swimmers at a time -- and there's also a jetted hot tub. A small but well-equipped fitness room includes a range of exercise equipment and free weights. High-speed Wi-Fi is free of charge to guests throughout the property, while the hotel also provides scheduled shuttle services to selected business districts and the Orchard Road shopping district.