Reviving the Haunt: MWA Architects transforming an abandoned building into a trendsetting landmark
This formerly derelict building has shed its haunted reputation and is now a popular spot for local hipsters and trendsetters. It remained in a state of decay for so long that it became etched into the history and memory of local inhabitants.
History behind this beauty
The Country View Hotel, was built in 1973, became part of Kuching’s skyline a decade before Wisma Saberkas. In the 1980s, it was sold and renamed Impiana Hotel, operating for several years before closing down. Few revival attempts were unsuccessful, leaving it vacant until 2022, Tecktonic and Sons Holdings Sdn Bhd began its refurbishment and revival as a hotel.
Given its abandoned impression among the locals, the architect aimed for the refurbishments to be evident externally, transforming its appearance to start a new chapter in its history.
Re-Framing the future: Inspired by a steel lift shaft
Originally, there was only one passenger lift that stopped on the first floor, forcing guests to climb a long flight of stairs to reach the lobby and check-in, which compromised access and the sense of arrival. To solve this, a new steel lift shaft was added and extended the existing lift to the ground floor. This inspired the idea of ‘re-frame’ the building to serve two main purposes: giving it a new facade in line with its new lease on life and providing a garden on every floor, accessible from each hotel corridor.
Reviving the roof: From collapsed lookout to CLOUD9 Sky Bar
On the roof level, remnants of a previous structure suggested it was once a lounge or lookout, though it had rotted away and collapsed onto the roof slab. The views from this level are superb, with vistas of Kuching to the north and Gunung Serapi to the west. The roof has been restored to house the ‘CLOUD9’ sky bar, equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment and offering priceless views of Kuching and its surroundings.
Revitalized entry through the relocation of the hotel lobby enhances the arrival experience
The hotel lobby was relocated to the drop-off porch on the ground floor, while the first floor was converted into suite rooms. Lush landscaping and outdoor elements provide a scenic backdrop to the new lobby and reception area. The drop-off zone is framed by a new steel canopy and shaded by an existing palm tree.
Upgrading classic room layouts with small changes
Many of the original room layouts feature a column, a small window, and a floor-to-floor height just over 3 meters. To optimize time and cost, the architect retained the original layouts with a few small changes, such as removing part of the bathroom wall to let in more natural light.
The small windows were extended into balcony ‘pods’ to provide an outdoor component and enhance the facade.
During the partial demolition phase, the local community speculated whether the entire building was being demolished due to its age, “ugliness”, and haunted reputation. Built in the 70s and once the tallest structure in this part of Kuching, the building’s history was extended by integrating new elements and functions within its existing structure, allowing a dialogue between the old and the new.
Was it really haunted?
“A question often asked of me during the construction of this hotel – ‘did you see any ghosts?’
My colleagues and I did not see any spirits, although our site meetings were very spirited – everyone speaking at once, talking over each other like friends deciding which pub to go to after a football match.”
by Min from MWA Architects
| Location | Kuching, Sarawak |
| Area | 4876 m2 |
| Year | 2023 |
| Architect | MWA Architects |
| Interior Designer | MWA Architects |
| Designer | Wee Hii Min , Freddie Lo , Louis Ting , Melvin Chan |
| Interior Designer (Cloud9 Rooftop Area) | MNSC Architects |
| Engineer | Jurutera Minsar Sdn Bhd |
| Landscape Architect | WM Koncepto Company Limited |
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