Hotels are making a compelling case for adaptive reuse by repurposing heritage structures to suit a contemporary context.
South East Asia is home to several unique heritage properties and specifically these hotels from the Marriott group are fine examples of heritage properties being put to great use.
The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok
The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok, stands on the grounds of the Kandhavas Palace, former royal residence of Princess Valaya Alongkorn, a daughter of King Chulalongkorn (King Rama V). A homage to its regal lineage, the hotel’s opulent design is a modern take on traditional Thai design elements with a European flair. The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok continues the commitment to celebrating the heritage of the world’s most iconic hotels through meticulous restoration projects that pay tribute to local indigenous charms and treasures.
The Kandhavas Palace was transformed into a hotel in 1973 and rebranded under The Luxury Collection in 2017. The hotel’s deep historical roots provide an authentic experience that resonates with guests seeking a connection to Thailand’s cultural and royal history while highlighting the fusion of traditional Thai aesthetics with European flair to the design. “An exclusive club lounge on the 26th floor with panoramic views over the Bangkok skyline where guests can enjoy all-day culinary presentations including breakfast, afternoon tea and evening cocktails. Located on the 4th floor, the lagoon-style swimming pool offers all-day sunshine and overlooks the Bangkok cityscape. Located on the fifth floor, the Forbes-certified Athenee Spa features a collection of signature treatments incorporating homegrown products, promoting a holistic retreat amongst the serene ambience,” says ChooLeng Goh, General Manager, The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok. During the most recent comprehensive refurbishment and repositioning of the hotel, the team have remodeled the guest rooms’ elements to modernize and elevate the aesthetic appeal and introduced new dining concepts and culinary experiences.
The Hermitage, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Jakarta
Nestled in a building recognized as cultural heritage by Jakarta’s local government, The Hermitage, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Jakarta exudes an antique charm. This three-story edifice, which once housed the Education and Culture Ministry and the Soekarno Education Foundation, now features a lobby, restaurants, and function rooms, and was started in 1923. Under the visionary guidance of Indonesian architect Jasin Tedjasukmana, every detail of the Hermitage has been meticulously crafted. The hotel boasts 89 sophisticated guest rooms and suites, furnished with luxurious amenities, sumptuous furniture, and plush bedding textiles, creating an atmosphere of refined elegance in central Jakarta.
In 2008, The Hermitage proposed a transformation, aiming to repurpose it as a hotel while preserving its historical heritage. “Extensive renovations followed, and in 2015, The Hermitage, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Jakarta became part of Marriott International’s portfolio, under the Tribute Portfolio brand. The hotel is situated in the prestigious Menteng residential area. This location is ideal for guests who wish to stay in the heart of Jakarta while escaping the hustle and bustle of the metropolitan city. Lesser known is that Menteng Jakarta was a modern urban design project developed primarily in the 1910s as a residential district for the Indo-Dutch community, upper-middle-class residents, and high-ranking officials. It represents the origins of the modern and integrated city concept in Indonesia,” says Rizky Irvansyah, General Manager, The Hermitage, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Jakarta. Given the heritage status of the building, the hotel conducts regular preventive maintenance to ensure that guests receive the highest levels of service and facility standards. The hotel boasts four exquisite F&B venues, highlighting the importance of dining in its mission to elevate its prestige. The flagship venue, 1928 Restaurant, serves a diverse selection of colonial, Peranakan, and Indonesian/pan-Asian cuisines and beverages.
The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Autograph Collection
The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Autograph Collection includes the iconic Hotel Majestic building, documented as a national heritage site under the Antiquities Act. Built in the 1930s, the original hotel became one of the great landmarks of Kuala Lumpur in its time. The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Autograph Collection reopened its doors on 1st December 2012. “The main building boasted tall white Roman columns, intricate cornices, and a grand curved driveway leading to a covered Porte Cochere. Pioneering modern amenities such as hot and cold water, showers, and long baths in 18 rooms marked a new era of luxury in Malayan history. Imported English furniture, silverware, and custom furnishings adorned its interiors, complemented by a lavish roof garden accommodating 350 guests, hosting performances by global artists, including Hollywood and London’s Coliseum acts,” says Alvin Khoo, General Manager, The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Autograph Collection. The hotel features 300 luxurious rooms and suites. The Majestic Wing, the fully restored original five-storey Majestic Hotel, houses the Colonial and
Maxwell Reserve Singapore, Autograph Collection
Maxwell Reserve Singapore, Autograph Collection is situated in Singapore’s buzzing and vibrant city center of Tanjong Pagar where business, socializing, dining, and nightlife take center stage. With the highest concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants in the city, travelers can enjoy local fare in the famous Maxwell Food Centre or dine at the city’s renowned restaurants and bars. Maxwell Reserve Singapore, Autograph Collection stands as a testament to architectural brilliance, housed within a heritage building that seamlessly blends historical charm with contemporary luxury. “Guests are immersed in a unique ambiance that reflects a rich sense of history and sophistication. At Maxwell Reserve Singapore, Autograph Collection, personalized service is not just a promise but a cornerstone of the guest experience. From the moment of arrival to departure, every aspect of the stay is meticulously tailored to individual preferences, ensuring unparalleled comfort and satisfaction. Elevating the dining experience to new heights, the hotel’s culinary offerings showcase a fusion of flavors and creativity. Whether indulging in a gourmet meal at the hotel’s all-day vegan restaurant, Cultivate Café, to being elevated to the signature Indian restaurant, Shikar or simply savoring handcrafted cocktails at Officers’ Mess Polo Bar, guests are treated to a gastronomic journey of exquisite tastes. Amidst the hustle and bustle of city life, Maxwell Reserve provides a tranquil oasis dedicated to rejuvenation and relaxation. From state-of-the-art fitness facilities to the outdoor swimming pool, guests can embark on a holistic wellness journey that nurtures the mind, body, and soul,” says Harpreet Bedi, CEO, The Garcha Group, Maxwell Reserve Singapore, Autograph Collection.
Beyond accommodation, Maxwell Reserve Singapore, Autograph Collection curates a series of immersive experiences that immerse guests in the local culture and heritage. Whether it’s a guided tour, curated private event, or dining within one of the exclusive venues, every moment spent at the hotel is enriched with meaningful encounters and discoveries. Given the historical significance of the property’s location within a heritage building, ongoing maintenance is paramount. The skilled engineering and housekeeping teams ensure round-the-clock availability to address any issues promptly, supplemented by a specialized team dedicated to Planned Preventative Maintenance (PRM).
