The Hotel Phoenix at Somerset Road

The Hotel Phoenix opened its doors for business in August 1972. Owned by the Overseas Chinese Bank Corporation (OCBC), it was a 20-storey tower built on top of a medical centre and a shopping mall. The entire complex was called the Specialist Centre. At its opening, the hotel was described as having an atmosphere that “breathes comfort”. It was lauded for its guest-friendly amenities and the attention given to details, such as having longer beds to cater to taller guests. The complex was demolished in 2010 and a new hotel and retail project is slated to be completed on the site in 2013.