The Heeren Mansion

Located in Melaka, Malaysia, offers a unique glimpse into the past, blending rich history with modern comforts. This mansion, originally a townhouse on Melaka's historical Millionaires' Row, has been transformed by interior designer Jennifer Ker and her husband into a lavish private villa. The architecture along Heeren Street, where the mansion is located, features a mix of Dutch, Peranakan, and Chinese influences, predominantly Dutch due to its 17th-century origins.

The extensive renovation of Heeren Mansion

The couple faced challenges due to the building's location in Melaka's UNESCO Heritage Core Zone and its lack of original architectural features. They used a mix of salvaged materials and new elements, including wooden floorboards, granite slabs, and Jian Nian (ceramic cut-and-paste shard-work) on the facade. The house was designed to reflect its historical heyday, with attention paid to every detail, from the pintu pagar (swing doors) to the Moorish-themed first courtyard. A notable feature is the lounge, which was once the ancestral hall and kitchen, now a space for hosting up to 50 people.

Heritage of charm

While the upstairs rooms blend colonial aesthetics with modern amenities, such as air-conditioned bathrooms and bold color schemes. The property also features a pool and jacuzzi. The interiors are adorned with a collection of artwork and antiques, showcasing Ker's passion for preserving heritage.

Heeren Mansion is now open for events and rentals, offering a unique experience of Melaka's cultural richness​​​​​​​​​​​​.

Reviews of Heeren House

A related property, indicate a generally positive experience. It scores 4.0 out of 5 and is ranked #29 among 187 hotels in Melaka. The property features amenities like free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and a non-smoking environment, with room types including non-smoking rooms, suites, and family rooms. Its location is highly rated for walkers, with numerous restaurants and attractions nearby. However, recent reviews mention changes in ownership and management, leading to varying levels of service quality. Some guests have praised its character and location, while others have noted issues such as lack of breakfast service and noise from live music at night. The property offers a mix of hotel and cafe experiences, with a cozy environment suitable for short getaways​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​.

Heeren Mansion

21, Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, Taman Kota Laksamana, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia

^{Photo: Miah Kiat Goh • Adeline Chow}