Photo: Over & Above.
George Town, Penang, is where heritage upsells modern businesses. Whether it’s restored colonial mansion hotels or design-forward cafés, the city’s transformed heritage spaces blends architecture, and luxury travel into one inspiring destination.
1. Macalister Mansion
A masterpiece of heritage and modern design, Macalister Mansion features eight curated suites combining antique furnishings, contemporary artwork, marble accents and tropical greenery. The hotel is part of the Design Hotels collection and is consistently a favourite in the luxury travel industry, make it a top choice for travellers going for premium experiences.
228 Jalan Macalister, George Town | Visit website
2. Studio Howard
Started by Howard Tan, this minimalist shophouse is part concept store, part design studio. Artisan furniture, ceramics and glassware showcase Penang’s creative talent. New products are introduced several times a year, and they occasionally host art events as well.
9, Lebuh Klang, George Town | Visit website
3. Seven Terraces
Occupying restored 19th-century Anglo-Chinese terrace houses, Seven Terraces merges Peranakan luxury with modern comfort. Antique teak furniture, hand-painted tiles and a courtyard pool showcase heritage restoration at its finest.
14A, Stewart Ln, George Town | Visit their website
4. P.66
A design-led café and concept store, P.66 features curved architecture, natural timber and abundant daylight and was featured in Conde Nast Traveller last year, in a story about Penang’s locally-made products scene. Guests can sip specialty coffee, browse curated homeware and enjoy the slow-living ethos in a restored heritage space. A lesser-known tip about P.66: it also offers accommodation in five Muji-inspired minimalist rooms.
66, Lebuh Campbell, George Town | Visit their website
5. Fort Cornwallis
A contemporary café featuring geometric tiles, high ceilings and sleek interiors, perfect for Japanese-inspired brunches or evening cocktails. The stylish ambiance reflects Penang’s modern café culture.
6. HIN Bus Depot
This adaptive reuse project transforms a former bus terminal into a hub for art, pop-up markets and creative events, showcasing Penang’s thriving contemporary art scene. George Town’s foremost fine dining experience – Au Jardin restaurant – is also located here.
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