Cover A pool is a welcome feature of Heeren Mansion
A pool is a welcome feature of Heeren Mansion
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Extravagant and vividly realised, Heeren Mansion is a lavish revival of Melaka’s Millionaires’ Row
Melaka’s Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, once known as Heeren Street, earned the moniker Millionaires’ Row when the city’s prosperous Straits-born Chinese community made their homes here in the 19th and early 20th century.
The homes, which looked deceptively modest from the front, concealed large interiors, which the affluent inhabitants did up in grand style.
For Jennifer Ker, a seasoned interior designer with a penchant for antiques, the opportunity to own a property on this iconic street was a dream realised.
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The facade was faithfully restored
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Originally from Muar, she and her husband, who are based in Kuala Lumpur, seized the chance to acquire a lot on Heeren Street.
The couple embarked on a transformative journey to breathe new life into a former cafe and dried foodstuff warehouse, envisioning the house in its heyday splendour.
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Above Jewel colours add richness
Jewel colours add richness
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Undertaking the restoration within the constraints of the Unesco heritage site, the couple navigated the intricate process with a skilled contractor, recognising the unique structural challenges posed by these historic homes.
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The spiral staircase in the light-filled courtyard
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Despite limited salvageable materials from the site, such as wooden floorboards and granite slabs, Ker meticulously researched and sourced authentic architectural details.
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Above The Tok Panjang
The Tok Panjang
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From roof tiles and decorative embossed tiles procured from the UK to custom-made furniture and a wrought iron spiral staircase from India and traditional Chien Nien (ceramic cut and paste shard-work) craftsmanship by Chinese artisans, every element was chosen with care.
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One of two staircases in the townhouse
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While the ground floor retained its heritage charm, the upstairs bedrooms received a touch of modern comfort, blending colonial aesthetics with vibrant colours, antique pieces, and air-conditioning (even in the bathroom)—a necessity in Melaka’s tropical climate.
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The bar was custom made
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Adding a touch of luxury, Ker incorporated a small pool with a jacuzzi, providing a refreshing escape from the city’s relentless heat.
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Vivid colours inject the space with a vibrant energy
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The interiors are adorned with a curated collection of exquisite artwork and antiques amassed over the years.
Ker’s personal touch is evident in the embroidered birthday scrolls, bed curtains adorned with beads, vintage kebayas, beaded shoes, and framed chair covers embellished with gold threads.
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The bedrooms all have a lush fee
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Now that the space is complete, it’s been appropriately named Heeren Mansion and exhibits all the extravagance the Peranakans of yore were known for, like Ker quips: “The Babas and Nyonyas were the original Crazy Rich Asians”.
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Bedrooms have a touch of modernity
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Beyond a private residence, plans are underway to open its doors for private events and potential villa rentals.
With a bar and a baby grand piano, Heeren Mansion promises a glimpse into Melaka’s rich heritage and the prospect of being a true party house.
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Credits
Photography: Lin Ho
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Jennifer Choo is Regional Managing Editor of Tatler Homes, covering architecture, interior design, and art across Asia. Based in Malaysia, she oversees regional content on luxury residential design and contemporary art collections. Legally trained but choosing to pursue her passion for design, she previously led notable design publications and worked as an interior stylist and art consultant for property developers, design firms, and private clients.
