The Qing Suites retains its original architecture while providing all the modern luxuries (All photos: Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion)
Once a humble servants’ quarters, a crumbling annexe built in 1904 has been given a new lease of life as The Qing Suites, the latest extension to Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion in George Town, Penang. The boutique stay, just across the road from The Blue Mansion, adds to the conservation of the heritage building and introduces 13 elegant rooms to the haven. Helming restoration efforts were Laurence Loh and his firm Arkitek LLA, who led the refurbishment of the original structure back in 1989.
The three sumptuous rooms are Signature Suites, with wall-to-wall windows overlooking the azure main establishment; Garden Suites that boast private lawns; and Terrace Suites sporting direct access to a rooftop garden. Adorning each space are custom-built furniture, soft lanterns, ceramics and paintings by local artisans that complement the retained architecture, while modern luxuries — think Bluetooth speakers and coffee machines — ensure every stay is comfortable and convenient.
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The new accommodations are not the only highlight of this upgraded wing. Sharing the space is Virtue TCM, the first spa that is entirely focused on traditional Chinese medicine methods to provide restorative rituals for both mind and body. In-house physicians start each session with consultations and pulse diagnoses, before treating clients with personalised therapies based on acupuncture, cupping, herbal therapy, gua sha and more.
Guests can nip across the street to The Blue Mansion’s Indigo Restaurant or Café Mangga for some grub, or explore The Qing Suites’ own offerings. All-day dining is available at the Courtyard, while the Tranquility Tea Room invites connoisseurs to savour Chinese concoctions.
This article first appeared on Jan 19, 2026 in The Edge Malaysia.
