Chinatown Reimagined
Justin Chen and Javier Perez

Words Vidula KotianImages Khoo Guo Jie

When Justin Chen and Javier Perez set out to open a hotel in Kuala Lumpur, they turned toward the city they thought they knew—and discovered something quite different.

Located in the historic Menara Lee Rubber building in Chinatown, the 1930s Art Deco landmark has become their canvas for reinvention. Chinatown’s energetic streets, rich layers of history and craft, and creative undercurrent inspired them to build a space that is both rooted in the neighborhood and looking outward to the world.

For Justin—the architect‑turned‑hospitality visionary—and Javier—the restaurateur whose language has always been food and community—Else is a portal for guests to fall into the city again: to feel the pulse of Kuala Lumpur, meet its makers, savor its stories, and stay somewhere that carries complexity, character, and authenticity.

Here, we talk to Justin and Javier about their journey creating Else Kuala Lumpur, a hotel that bridges heritage, design, and the city’s vibrant creative community.

How did you two start working together?

Javier Perez: Justin and I first met while I was looking for a new space for a concept—he happened to be the landlord. What began as a simple conversation about real estate quickly turned into a friendship grounded in shared values, a creative wavelength, and a mutual desire to build something meaningful. From there, it naturally evolved into a partnership. I’m so grateful for his presence in my life and excited to see where this journey takes us.

Justin Chen: I’d admired Javier’s restaurants long before we met. The soulful personality behind his spaces stood out as such an outlier in Singapore’s dining scene. To me, he truly embodies the spirit of hospitality. We’d explored ways of collaborating over the years, but both had our own projects to focus on. It wasn’t until the Lee Rubber Building opportunity came along that everything finally aligned.

Why was Chinatown the right location for Else, and how do you see the hotel interacting with the surrounding community?

Javier: When we began the project in 2018, Chinatown was at a turning point. It wasn’t polished, and that was part of its charm. The neighborhood was layered, textured, and full of soul, with a quiet transformation underway: people reviving forgotten buildings, creative communities taking root, and young entrepreneurs returning with fresh ideas.

We never wanted to impose ourselves on the area or on Kuala Lumpur. Coming from Singapore and Shanghai, our goal was to learn from what was already happening—to adapt, adopt, and contribute meaningfully to that evolving story. Chinatown has given us a backdrop of authenticity, and I’m grateful we’ve been able to add our thread to its tapestry.

The Lee Rubber building has a rich history. How did you balance preserving its heritage with your desire to create a contemporary, design-forward space?

Justin: Honestly, the neighborhood shaped our design more than the building itself. Surrounded by street vendors, crowded sidewalks, and two temples across the road, we wanted Else to feel like a haven—a space that transports guests the moment they step through the doors, offering calm, protection, and elevation.

The theme of duality runs throughout: old versus new, light and shadow, social and private spaces. The building was a blank canvas, and our aim was to make Else feel timeless—a living space that continues to evolve.

How has working on Else changed the way you view Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia’s creative culture?

Javier: From the beginning, I sensed that KL was overflowing with culture. What I’ve come to realize is how interconnected the scene is. Once you’re part of it, you see how many artists, musicians, designers, and thinkers are quietly shaping the city. It’s a small community, but with immense depth. Now it just needs the right channels and platforms. Both Justin and I are aware of how we can contribute as collaborators in this movement.

Justin: Being exposed to KL’s creative culture while running my coworking spaces in 2014 showed me that there was a story waiting to be written. Seeing early projects like APW, Zhongshan Building, The Row, and Chocha Foodstore inspired me to want to work with these people.

There’s so much talent in this country waiting for the right platform. At the same time, creatives often place self-imposed limits on themselves. Else aims to challenge that by bridging local and international communities, showing what’s possible.

How would your friends describe you in 3 words?

Javier: Funny, trustworthy, and a bit of a guide.

Justin: Curious, steady, difficult.

You worked with many local creatives—from Studio Bikin to Omar Khan and Jun Wong. What role did these collaborations play in shaping the sense of locally rooted authenticity?

Javier: These collaborators have been true co-authors of the Else story, giving the project soul and grounding it in the local creative community. Justin insisted on working with leaders of their craft who respect their roots and can bring that perspective into a globally inspired context. Being Malaysian only adds to the richness—they’re pushing boundaries, reinterpreting tradition, and raising standards.

Justin: Working with local talent was one of the most exciting parts of this journey. We wanted to give creatives a platform to showcase their craft at the highest level. Else Kuala Lumpur is a love letter to the city. Studio Bikin, in particular, helped open doors, and the local community has been warm and supportive throughout. Javier and I may be co-founders, but everyone involved has been a co-creator.

Food is an integral part of Malaysian identity. What do you hope to achieve with the two dining outlets on property?

Javier: We want Raw and Yellow Fin Horse to be places you return to and still discover something new—comfort with character. Our goal is to spark emotion, curiosity, and delight, and eventually take these concepts to other markets in the region.

Justin: We wanted to offer something different in KL’s dining scene, pairing local flavors with a global perspective. The venues are designed for gathering and experiences: Yellowfin Horse hosts curated music and international acts, while Raw is an all-day hangout with film screenings and talks.

What is your favorite local dish in Kuala Lumpur, and where’s the best place to get it?

Javier: Nasi Lemak at Village Park. It’s iconic for a reason, comforting and satisfying every time.

Justin: Javier knows what’s good. Nasi Lemak is Malaysia’s national dish, and Village Park sets the gold standard. Another favorite of mine is Asam Laksa near Else on Petaling Street, with a rich, intense fish broth and springy rice noodles.