Words: Aisling Cullen Photos: Monica TIndall
I’m a sucker for a well-designed boutique hotel. Independently styled, beautifully decorated… some places are meant to be discovered and appreciated. That’s how I felt when I stayed at the Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur, an Autograph Collection Hotel, nestled among shop houses on Jalan Kamunting and a short distance from the city centre. On arrival, its hard not be impressed by the stunning old façade that has been converted from five shop houses, now renovated into a modern stylish building. The mix of old and new is tastefully done, and on entering the main lobby I felt like I was in a design hotel located in the Soho district of New York. Parquet flooring, exposed brick walls and beautiful brass fixtures provided a dramatic and relaxed vibe.
The smartly dressed staff couldn’t have been more helpful on arrival as they grabbed my suitcase from the taxi and ushered me inside. I was greeted with warm smiles and cool air-conditioning quickly refreshing myself from the Malaysian humidity, and in no time at all was checked in to my room.
Rooms at Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur
On entering my room, I delighted in the cool contemporary interior. Greys, gold and beige set the tone for a calming modern space. A huge monochromatic print was positioned above the bed – an image of Jalan Kamunting of old. I am very fussy when it comes to my hotel bed and I have been known to pack my own pillow. This though was definitely not needed at the Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur as my head melted into the pillow as I lay down to rest. The soft white cotton linen felt like silk. I was in heaven.
There are some thoughtful touches to the room like a bowlful of old fashioned Malaysian candies. Some locals might remember these treats from their childhood. And, if you do have a sweet tooth and nostalgia for the past, don’t miss the jars of biscuits in The Snug – there are some old favourites there too.
Breakfast
After a restful night’s sleep, I headed to The Snug for breakfast on Level 2. Tiled walls and grey upholstered furniture gave The Snug an industrial feel. Breakfast itself is a simple affair, with a selection of cereals, an egg station, some Asian delicacies and pastries. With my caffeine fix sorted, I was ready for a workout in the well-equipped gym before heading to the pool.
The Rooftop
On the rooftop of the hotel, a shimmering infinity pool overlooks the KL Tower. What a sight! The sun loungers are soft and comfortable and there were plenty of white fluffy towels that I could help myself to. I put my earphones on to listen to some music and the sounds of the city disappeared. It was one of the most relaxing moments I have had in a long time.
In the evening, the pool area turns into a vibrant rooftop bar called Mantao, with an inventive cocktail menu, decent wines by the glass and Chinese beer. It also has a nice view of Kuala Lumpur. Read more details about our experience here.
Restaurants
The hotel has its own restaurant called Brasserie 25 that serves traditional French dishes in an impressive space that would grab the attention of the most discerning of diners. Again, for an in-depth look at the menu, check out this article and find out about their French themed afternoon tea, Le Gouter, here.
If you are a traveller who is looking for luxury and style mixed with history and culture, the Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur is a property worth considering.
Reasons to visit: super comfortable beds, stylish design hotel, well-equipped gym, relaxing pool area with great sun loungers, friendly staff, great location near the city centre.
Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur
25 Jalan Kamunting
50300 Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
E: HSKLRESV@STRIPESKL.COM
W: STRIPESKL.COM
T: +603 2038 0000