A Historic Transformation: Ms. Elliot at Hock Bee Restaurant and Café
The Hock Bee Brothers Building, a cherished architectural gem located along Jalan Besar in Kuantan, Malaysia, has been an iconic landmark for over five decades. With its distinctive design and rich history intertwined with the town’s multicultural fabric, the building holds a special place in the hearts of Kuantan’s residents. Originally comprising two prewar shop lots, its impressive 40-foot-wide front facade, adorned with geometric prisms for windows, has made it an integral part of Kuantan’s urban heritage.
Honoring Tradition
In 2022, a new era dawned with the opening of Ms. Elliot, a café restaurant occupying the ground and mezzanine floors of the Hock Bee Brothers Building. The goal was to pay homage to the building’s history while preserving its original charm. Unlike typical renovations, the focus was not on flashy design but on retaining the building’s inherent allure. The café’s reception coffee bar features a multi-layered onyx installation, salvaged from a nearby stone yard, serving as a testament to sustainability and a connection to the past.
Rhythmic Design Cues
The reception coffee bar echoes the rhythmic design elements of the building’s front facade, resembling a miniature version of the structure. Constructed with steel frames and adorned with backlit onyx tiles, the installation not only serves as a sculptural centerpiece but also pays homage to the building’s architectural heritage. Custom pendant lights inspired by the prismatic windows and antique gas streetlights further enhance the spatial aesthetics.
Preserving Historical Integrity
The renovation of the Hock Bee Brothers Building prioritized the preservation of its historical integrity. The original mosaic floor from the 1960s remains untouched, while the wooden plaque bearing golden Chinese characters has been carefully restored. Original wood louvers now serve as dividers, maintaining spatial symmetry and privacy. Entryway walls lead to cozy dining booths, transforming the space into intimate dining areas.
Cultural Hub
Beyond its architectural significance, the Hock Bee Brothers Building embodies the cultural richness of Kuantan. Influenced by Malay, Chinese, Indian, and colonial architectural styles, Kuantan boasts a diverse heritage that is celebrated at Ms. Elliot. The café restaurant aims to be a cultural hub where locals and visitors can gather to appreciate Kuantan’s history, art, and culinary traditions. As Kuantan evolves, Ms. Elliot remains a beacon of its enduring spirit and commitment to preserving its unique cultural identity.
