Rumah Kechik, located in the UNESCO World Heritage City of Malacca, Malaysia, is a masterful conservation and adaptive reuse project that revitalizes three 200-year-old shophouses as an extension of an existing hotel. This project, which houses a new restaurant and social spaces, skillfully integrates new elements while preserving the historical character of the original structures, creating a seamless blend of old and new.

The name “Rumah Kechik,” meaning “small house” in traditional Malaysian culture, refers to secondary houses attached to main residences, a concept reflected in the relationship between this new extension and the parent hotel. The original layout of the three distinct shophouses inspired a linear arrangement of spaces, progressing from the front of the buildings to an open rear courtyard. In restoring the shophouses, steel framing was carefully inserted to strengthen the existing structures without detracting from their historic integrity.

A key feature of the restoration is the reintroduction of a double-height internal courtyard in the central shophouse, a design element typical of shophouses in the region. This was achieved by strategically removing a portion of the existing second-storey slab, creating a dramatic entrance and enhancing the spatial experience. Additionally, internal fenestrations and portals were carved into the existing party walls, improving visual connectivity and allowing daylight to permeate the interiors, significantly enhancing natural illumination.

The project also emphasizes sustainability and craftsmanship by showcasing original 200-year-old brickwork, exposed by removing plaster to address issues with high-water table absorption. Local materials, including decorated tiles, pebble-wash, timber, and repurposed clay roof tiles used for feature screens, were carefully selected to support sustainable practices and honor local craftsmanship.

Rumah Kechik stands as a testament to the careful balance of preservation and innovation, offering a contemporary yet respectful addition to Malacca’s rich architectural heritage. The project not only revitalizes historical structures but also enhances the cultural and social fabric of the city, providing a unique and immersive experience for visitors and locals alike.

Photography by Finbarr Fallon