Stepping into the Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur lobby brings back a sense of nostalgia— perhaps it’s the rows of pillars reminiscent of 1950s architecture, or the low ceilings cultivating an old-school intimacy lost in modern trends. And yet, the floors show no signs of scuffing and the ceiling bears no marks of water damage. According to General Manager, Aarron Nelson, it’s all about keeping it fresh.
Set against the vibrant tapestry of the local hospitality scene, Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur is a living testament to their commitment to reinvention. Battling steely skyscrapers and mega hotels in the Golden Triangle, their dedicated team has continuously modernised the definition of business-class hospitality.
Their secret? It’s a hotel with a soul, confides Aarron Nelson, the General Manager. “Concorde has always been a ‘home away from home’ for me and our hotel guests,” he adds, emphasising that their promise to create genuine guest experiences has led all of their changes, as well as what they choose to preserve within their original 19-storey building.
As they approach their 34th anniversary, here’s how Concorde Hotel KL balances having one foot entrenched in the past, while still being two steps ahead of the game.
Aarron Nelson, General Manager, and Philip Ling, Interior Design and Facilities Manager, posing in front of the hotel’s deli-cum-lounge.
#1 MODERNISING INTERIORS WITHOUT COMPROMISING ON CHARACTER
Beyond visual aesthe-tics, Concorde Hotel KL’s interior design strives to craft a harmonious blend between fresh, contemporary perspectives with the historical charm of a 1950s building. Some of their signature features now were preserved from the bygone days of Hotel Merlin, the building’s earliest tenant.
Preserved from their Hotel Merlin days, the dragon pillars are stylishly complemented with modern decor.
Eagle-eyed guests might spot the initials ‘H. M.’ carved into the walls surrounding the pool.
Inspired by their wide travels and modern trends, the team’s open-minded approach to design is reflective of the hotel’s versatility. For example, in the most recent redesign of the Premier Classic rooms, the antiquated matte and neutral hues were swapped out in favour of crisp pops of colour, instantly breathing new life into the living spaces. The newly installed hallway strip lights also bring a tasteful modern touch to an often overlooked part of the hotel.
#2 HONOURING TRADITION THROUGH CULINARY INNOVATIONS
Food is often hailed as a cornerstone of hospitality, and at Concorde Hotel KL, this is no exception.
As one of the authentic Cantonese hotel restaurant serving pork dishes, Xin Cuisine prides itself on its ability to revive age-old cooking methods while catering to new-age palettes.
Xin Cuisine’s traditional dim sum push carts have become their signature, while they’re slowly forgotten everywhere else.
Renowned for their freshly handmade dim sum served in Hong Kong style push carts, Xin Cuisine also offers a newly curated ala carte menu infused with the nostalgic flavours of the home. Beyond that, the restaurant also prepares rare traditional specialties, including their mouthwatering Peking duck and the peppery soup of whole village chicken stuffed in a pig stomach.
#3 BREAKING NEW GROUND IN SUSTAINABILITY
Believing that sustainability extends beyond just environ-mental issues, Concorde Hotel KL embodies the future-forward ESG (Environment, Social, Governance) values in every operational aspect.
One of the biggest sources of waste in the local hospitality scene is food wastage. Acclaimed as a pioneer in addressing this pressing issue, Concorde Hotel KL converts nearly 100% of their daily solid food waste into nutrient-rich compost with their cutting-edge composter. It is estimated that they’re able to prevent up to 3.6 tonnes of waste from reaching a landfill annually.
#4 BEING IN TUNE TO GUESTS’ NEEDS
Guest comfort and experience are prized above all else at Concorde Hotel KL, with all feedback playing an active role in future renovations and remodelings.
A prime example is the recent refurbishment of over 60 Premier Classic rooms. In addition to the usual refreshing of the plush carpets and luxurious bedding, the redesign also included a cosy dressing table nook for the guests’ utmost convenience. Other practical changes that were implemented were the replacement of oversized tables with more compact versions, as well as additional light fixtures to brighten up the rooms.
One of the recently refurbished Premier Executive rooms, with new carpets, drapes and bedding.
#5 ELEVATING GUEST COMFORT WITH ROUND-THE-CLOCK CARE
At Concorde Kuala Lumpur, comfort isn’t just a promise —it’s a continuous commitment. Upgrading works and upkeep efforts are meticulously planned all throughout the year, informed by comprehensive checks and close monitoring of the building and rooms.
From enhanced lighting down to minute details such as thoughtfully positioned charging ports and faster Wi-Fi connections, the team’s attention to detail ensures that every stay feels just as fresh as the first. Some of their future upgrades include adding new Premier benefits as well as improving all room amenities.
As the Concorde Hotel KL building nears its 68th anniversary, its lasting success can be attributed to the team’s impeccable ability to evolve while staying true to its roots.
“Our regulars are thrilled with new changes each time they return to the hotel,” remarks Aarron proudly, vowing to continue striving for service excellence and to set the precedent for quality in hospitality.