New Boutique Hotel Else to Take up Residence in the Old Lee Rubber Building

Called Else, the 49-room abode adds new life into a pre-war building in the heart of old Kuala Lumpur

The former holiday residence of Yap Kwan Seng in the '30s will soon be Else, a new boutique hotel in Kuala Lumpur designed by Studio Bikin. An Art Deco landmark near Chinatown, the facade may be all spruced up but it retains an old world charm.

Founded by Justin Chen of Arcc Spaces and Gen.T honouree Javier Perez who is behind Yonder Hospitality in Singapore, Else will open in July 2022. "During our search for a site, we were drawn to the historic heart of the city," says Chen.

"We wanted to tell a story that represents the city. Kuala Lumpur has always struck us as a city of unrecognised potential. Lee Rubber Building seems to embody that untapped opportunity. It was a faded icon covered in signboards and dulled paint, and really just needed an injection of passion and thoughtfulness to bring it back to life."

Above Pool terrace with cabanas

"Kuala Lumpur has always struck us as a city of unrecognised potential, from its inherent vibrancy and culture to the talent and creativity of its people"

- Justin Chen -

Featuring only 49 rooms, the living spaces are imagined as the ultimate urban hideaway that "embraces a modern, refreshing offering for today's travellers while celebrating elements of the past," adds Chen. Designed to be a sanctuary in a bustling neighbourhood, the hotel features an outdoor pool terrace with cabanas, floating meditation pods, and a gratitude space.

Aesthetically, the core is realised in soft palettes and natural tropical textures for an understated yet modern vibe. To get it just right, the founders enlisted the help of Studio Bikin.

"We wanted to work with a local firm that could represent a Malaysian aesthetic. Being in Chinatown, we were mindful not to fall into a trap of making Else 'oriental-themed', so what could give us a different perspective than a design firm led by two talented Malay ladies," Chen enthuses. "Their work have always captured an ability to be responsive to the tropical climate in its material choices and forms, as well as creative use of detailing."

Above Understated modern interior

Above A rendering of a restaurant in Else

Else will also boast two F&B venues: casual dining Raw Kitchen Hall, an extension of Raw Kitchen Bar in Singapore, and Yellow Fin Horse, a wood-fire restaurant.

"We want to acknowledge that today's travellers are multi-hyphenates. They are at once looking for stimulation and rest, business and leisure, new and familiar. We've set ourselves the task of navigating that balance," concludes Chen.

Else is scheduled to open in July 2022. For more info, visit its official website.

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Else Boutique Hotel Lee Rubber Building Studio Bikin

Tatler Asia

First Look: New Boutique Hotel Takes Up Residence at Lee Rubber Building