There’s been a trend in the hospitality realm and it’s one that creative minds could get used to. It’s an affinity for design, as hotels and residences place emphasis on the concept, execution and language its interiors adopt. For travellers, it’s more than the destination that matters. The experience of their stay, albeit a temporary one, comes to the fore as a leading priority when booking a hotel.
And Malaysia has duly taken note. As Singapore’s geographical neighbour, the country has long been a top travel destination for local residents. With a thriving capital city, pristine islands and an enigmatic food culture, it’s no doubt that Malaysia has much to offer to travellers of all kinds. All that’s left is an impressive stay, and it can certainly check off that box with its growing list of design-forward hotels that leaves an impression long after you’ve checked out.
For those venturing to the capital city of Kuala Lumpur, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Else Kuala Lumpur offers a breath of air amidst looming skyscrapers while Kloe Hotel is a haven for the curious. Looking to reconnect with local heritage? There’s no better place than the island of Penang, where ornate colonial-era shophouses are converted into charming boutique hotels.
From a short idyllic getaway to a nostalgic homestay, look no further than Vogue Singapore’s list of the best design-forward hotels Malaysia has to offer.
1 / 8
Kimpton Naluria, Kuala Lumpur
Kimpton Naluria is the newest kid on the block, as it calls the magnetic TRX district its home. The hotel boasts of a seamless harmony between Malaysia’s natural landscapes and an Italian-American indulgence. You’ll find organic tones and textures everywhere you go, peppered with sculptural lighting and terrazzo accents. It’s a local twist on Kimpton’s signature modern luxury where distinct design and vibrant colours take the lead. On the rooftop sits Four Siblings, the first and only spice-themed bar in the country. Rooted in the four essential Malaysian spices–star anise, cinnamon, cardamom and clove–expect an innovative lineup of spice-infused cocktails and sharing plates inspired by South American and Malay cuisine.
Kimpton Naluria Kuala Lumpur, Tun Razak Exchange, 55188 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
2 / 8
Else Kuala Lumpur
For those who seek respite after a day’s adventure, Else is the place to go to. You’re greeted with the refurbished facade of the historic Lee Rubber Building as you arrive in downtown Kuala Lumpur. Enter through the lobby and you’re whisked away to a paradise for a restorative respite. The Sanctuary Room is self-explanatory–a hideaway on the higher floors with a private balcony to soak up views of the skyline. For a holistic reset, Else collaborates with homegrown partners for a retreat programme that recharges and rejuvenates. A curated farm-to-table experience entails, followed by a wellness session of mind-to-body connection. Amidst the metropolitan buzz, the boutique hotel invites you to pause and be still.
Else Kuala Lumpur, 145, Jalan Tun H S Lee City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
3 / 8
The Chow Kit, Kuala Lumpur
Named after its eponymous neighbourhood, The Chow Kit pays homage to its storied past. Its interiors blend traditional with contemporary, where heritage pieces are seated amongst modern finishings. The King Den suite takes after the district’s infamous gambling dens but don’t fret, all that awaits is an elegant room with intentional detail that elevates your stay. Think floor-to-ceiling windows, feather-soft linens and a rain shower enveloped in a mid-century modern palette. For a glimpse into the alluring district, embark on a walking tour around the area where you’ll see famous street food stalls, historical landmarks and under-the-radar spots that only locals know.
The Chow Kit, 1012, Jalan Sultan Ismail, Chow Kit, 50100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
4 / 8
Kloe Hotel, Kuala Lumpur
Set in the heart of the bustling capital city sits Kloe Hotel–a hideaway for the curious explorer. Step foot through its doors and you’re transported to a creative hub. The lobby, endearingly known as the Living Room is an intersection of all things art. Natural light seeps through the roof with cosy nooks for you to curl up and unwind. Quirky souvenirs and mementos are on display at their gift shop, while their in-house cafe is the perfect spot for a casual brunch. But the main event is Kloe’s Artist Lofts, one-of-a-kind suites tailored for different creative interests, designed by a local tastemaker. Take your pick from Room To Draw, akin to an artist’s studio with art supplies and blank canvases, or Room To Listen, a music aficionado’s haven with a vast vinyl collection with a built-in record player. If you’ve caught a creative block, relax and rejuvenate at the swimming pool, a secluded sanctuary surrounded by lush greenery.
Kloe Hotel, 227 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
5 / 8
Tian Jing Hotel, Kuala Lumpur
A sense of ease and serenity greets you at Tian Jing Hotel. Rooted in a Chinese saying that means ‘air well’, the building lends inspiration from ancient Chinese architecture where earth’s elements work in harmony with one another. A constant breeze sweeps through the space as it soaks up the sunlight, as air circulation and natural light are the guiding principles. Hand-picked furniture crafted by local artisans fill the rooms, each telling a tale of the country’s storied heritage. Tian Jing is also situated in the heart of Chinatown, so you’re a stone’s throw away from city attractions.
Tian Jing Hotel, 66-68, Jalan Sultan, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
6 / 8
Noordin Mews, Penang
Once a Straits Eclectic shophouse in the Seven Streets precinct, Noordin Mews encapsulates life in the 1920s within its walls. Lined with classic Peranakan tiles, intricate carvings and antique photos of the lives that once filled the hallways, the shophouse-turned-hotel invites you to the enchanting colonial period where different cultures and heritage intertwined. The living quarters are reminiscent of Shanghai-style architecture, laid with timber floors and old-world charm. If you’re looking to spend your getaway with furry friends, Noordin Mews warmly welcomes with its pet-friendly policy.
Noordin Mews, 53, Noordin Street, 10300 Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia
7 / 8
Aayu Homes, Penang
The term aayu translates to ‘life’ in Sanskrit, and Aayu Homes is centred around the essence of that. With emphasis on elevating the quality of your lifestyle, the residences were built with intention and considered detail. The building’s original fixtures remain, with wooden shutter windows still in place, accompanied by ceramic air vents that traditional Chinese homes are known for. A sense of solace envelops the space as a minimalist design language overlays the interiors. Aayu Homes span six guesthouses, each an ode to the different cultures that make up Malaysia. The Ah Tong Residence, for example, is housed within a pre-war shophouse and was once the humble abode and workshop of a local tailor. Located in the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you get the best of both worlds where past and present converge.
Aayu Homes, 14, Kimberley Street, 10100 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
8 / 8
The Luma Hotel, Kota Kinabalu
As Kota Kinabalu’s first design-forward hotel, The Luma Hotel has certainly set a high bar. With Sabah’s renowned tropical landscapes as its guiding design inspiration, the property is lined with lush foliage while a feature spiral staircase mimics the language of the river. It’s as if you never left the rainforest. The bedrooms follow suit, embedded in riveting emeralds paired with deep timber floors. Bespoke furniture built by local craftsmen fill each suite, while a soft glow sets a calming ambience. With a hospitable team that eliminates all sense of being a stranger, The Luma Hotel creates a second home for you in the Land Below The Wind.
The Luma Hotel, Lot 2 to 5, Block A, Sutera Avenue, Jalan Sembulan, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
