Macalister Mansion by Ministry of Design
Macalister Mansion, located in the heart of Georgetown, Penang, is designed around the idea of an old English mansion and was transformed from a colonial Villa into an exclusive boutique hotel with historic flair. Not only the name was chosen to honor Sir Norman Macalister, one first British Governors of Penang, but also several pieces of art on the property remind the guests of the colonial times and his governor.
“Ministry of Design”, an interior and architectural design bureau only taking on chosen projects, recognized the great potential of the property and re-designed the villa (originally built in the early 1900), into a hotel with extraordinary features perfectly combining contemporary design with heritage.
The whole concept is based upon providing the hospitality of an actual home and offering more than the ordinary hotel experience. This is achieved through the creation of several individual spaces, all following a distinct theme supporting its purpose and creating a unique atmosphere. The property is divided into Dining Room, The Den, Living Room, Bar, The Lawn (with an outdoor pool area) and 8 individually designed Rooms fulfilling diverse preferences. Each Room encompasses specially commissioned art pieces, influenced by the life story of Sir Norman Macalister, to accent the contemporary theme.
An exceptionally special experience offers the Dining Room, which was designed around the idea of letting the guest dine in an exclusive manner contrasted by the fairy-tale like interior. Pastel colored deer peek around a tree whilst small birds and squirrels rest on the branches looking down on the dinner guests who can enjoy their, equally exclusive, meal in a light-colored “magic forest”.
The lawn and pool area are characterized by a mastic flair letting the gust enjoy a cocktail in the pool or simply the impressive design of the whole property in a sun lounger. The Den, The Bar and The Living Room, each designed in an individual manner support the mood created by its interior by offering a mainly one specific type of beverage; namely whisky, cocktails or exotic tees.
For those who value luxurious lifestyle destinations to relax and appreciate the presence of great art and interior design Macalister Mansion is definitely worth a visit.
