The refurbished Noordin Mews offers a warm welcome
It’s time to visit Penang and be immersed in the rich and unique experience of George Town from the design lens of a heritage property.
During the 19th century, the establishment of Noordin Street marked a pivotal moment in the growth of George Town, Penang. Locally known as "Jee Tiau Lor," or "The Second Street," in the Penang Hokkien dialect, this area now stands as a vibrant reflection of the city’s historical journey, melding traditional charm with modern urban development.
And yes, Noordin Mews is nestled within the area, at the heart of Penang’s Georgetown. Originally constructed in the 1920s, it seamlessly fuses the eclectic Straits shophouse design with the charm of a thoughtfully converted mews. The shophouse, a European-inspired structure built to cater to both commercial and residential needs, defines the Peranakan community's rich legacy. The mews, on the other hand, carries a captivating history. Once constructed as carriage houses for the wealthy residents of Noordin Street, it played a vital role in the equestrian lifestyle of the upper class during the 18th and 19th centuries.
In 2012, Noordin Mews was reimagined as a heritage boutique hotel, with each room evoking the charm of the street's history, once home to Penang's iconic Wembley cinema. To further enhance the guest experience, the owner later renovated the Mews Rooms, integrating modern comfort while preserving the beloved charm that has resonated with visitors for years. With a renewed vision, Noordin Mews now seeks to create a sanctuary where Penang’s diversity converges with the hotel’s distinctive identity, delivering an experience that harmonises tradition, history and contemporary luxury.
Restoring Noordin Mews while preserving its authenticity was no easy feat, but Penang-based interior design firm Studio 11 embraced the challenge, successfully elevating the hotel into more than just a place to stay. From the pleasing colour palette and the seamless integration of the natural surroundings with the interior design to the intricate attention to detail, every element has been carefully considered to provide guests with a serene and immersive experience. The furnishings, crafted by the team at By Hogen, further enrich the hotel’s character. Using locally sourced, high-quality materials, the designs honour a sense of patriotic pride while seamlessly complementing the overall aesthetic. Each piece is meticulously tailored to align with the distinct themes of the rooms, unified by a tapestry of colours and textures that enhances the atmosphere throughout the property.
Local collaborations are featured in abundance at Noordin Mews, proudly showcasing Penang’s rich artisanal tradition. The hotel’s commitment to promoting local craftsmanship extends far beyond its decor and architecture, reflecting a shared passion for authenticity through exclusive partnerships with talented artisans. One such collaboration is with Buttersage, a pottery artisan whose work is inspired by the natural world. Each handcrafted piece, including the unique coffee cups found in every room, reflects their dedication to perfection. Bungkus, a brand committed to transforming waste into meaningful items, has contributed eco-friendly laundry bags, which can be found in every wardrobe. Additionally, AE Coffee, known for its specialty coffee blends and homemade pastries, has created exclusive coffee bags for the hotel, offering guests a taste of their expertly crafted beans while celebrating the local coffee culture.
Noordin Mews serves as a cultural bridge, inviting guests from around the globe to experience the hospitality of Penang’s Peranakan heritage through its thoughtful preservation and adaptive reuse. The hotel’s immersive environment evokes how the richness of the past has shaped the present. Its central location provides easy access to nearby iconic landmarks, such as the historic Kapitan Keling Mosque, Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion and Kuan Yin Teng Temple. Additionally, the bustling street food scene and markets are just moments away, allowing guests to fully engage with the local setting.
Travelling with your fur babies? Noordin Mews warmly welcomes guests and their pets, offering a safe and comfortable stay. The hotel features a small outdoor garden where pets can roam and even provides a specially curated pet food menu. (Fun fact: there was once a guest who brought a bird and a rabbit, so all kinds of pets are happily welcomed!)
