Tucked away in the colourful UNESCO heritage site of Armenian Street in Penang is a new boutique hotel that perfectly marries Penang’s rich cultural heritage with modern luxury. 88 Armenian is a 3-storey hotel restored in an early Straits Eclectic-style building, perfect for those who would like to get right into the heart of Penang but away from the hustle and bustle of the island in a discreet, stylish paradise.
The hotel is the latest venture by hotelier Dr Angeline Yong, who’s also behind the popular Penang heritage hotel Noordin Mews, but why was Armenian Street selected as the location for the new hotel? “Armenian Street is the core of the heritage soul of Penang and we were really happy when we found out this building was available, we felt that it could be like a townhouse hotel,” explains Yong.
Catered mainly for couples or even solo travellers wanting a chic getaway, 88 Armenian offers a discreet time away in a luxurious setting that’s not too far from civilization. Despite the building being refurbished with a sleek modern aesthetic, the walls seem to tell the story of the original shophouse building that was once engulfed in a fire many years ago, giving the hotel a real sense of character.
Unwind and refresh after strolling around Penang in a natural stone bathtub.
Some parts still remains true to the original nature of the old heritage building with exposed original brick walls and wooden flooring that can still be seen in some parts of the rooms. “The hotel has been refurbished with personality, so this isn’t your cookie cutter hotel and I think guests can really get a personalised experience through this,” says Yong. The hotel offers six different rooms including a spacious 617 square feet suite and despite being in a shophouse, remains incredibly spacious.
Too hard? Too soft? Hotel staff can even personalise the pillows for you.
As a frequent traveller herself, Yong understands the needs and wants of travellers who may have different reasons for their travels. 88 Armenian ensures that the main needs of all its guests are met, plus going the extra mile to add a personal touch to make your stay extra special including personalised pillow services and even aromatherapy.
Meanwhile, The Copper and Bar restaurant marries copper and wood aesthetics together perfectly and offers diners a unique interpretation of Malaysian cuisine and a range of specially crafted cocktails.
Indulge in modern intrepretations of classic Malaysian flavours at The Copper and Bar Restaurant.
“It’s important to curate an experience, to deliver that kind of service that we appreciate as well and offer a personalised service,” says Yong. “Another is for the hotel to have a story to tell. It is a way we approach each hotel and especially 88 Armenian. When we look at a building, they’re all individual because they’re heritage buildings. We try to bring out the story and tell that to our guests, so it’s kind of like being welcomed into a home and it’s not our story, but the story of the building.”
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88 Armenian marries modern and classic heritage aesthetics in their interior.
Comfort, is of course another important element for any hotel stay but 88 Armenian takes that to a different level with each room coming equipped with soundproof windows, a Gessi spa shower, a massive natural stone bathtub and Bang & Olufsen speakers that play soothing music personalised for you when you arrive.
Call +60 (0)4261 1188 for reservations and availability.
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