Kimpton Naluria opens, redefining luxury lifestyle hospitality

Kimpton, part of IHG Hotels and Resorts’ luxury and lifestyle portfolio, has officially entered the Malaysian market with the opening of Kimpton Naluria Kuala Lumpur, a design-led hotel positioned within the Tun Razak Exchange (TRX), the capital’s emerging international financial and lifestyle district. The opening marks a significant milestone for the San Francisco-founded brand, known globally for boutique hotels that function as vibrant social hubs rooted in local culture.

Owned by LQ Hotel Sdn Bhd, a joint venture between Lendlease and TRX City Sdn Bhd, the hotel underscores growing confidence in Kuala Lumpur as a regional destination for high-end lifestyle hospitality. With TRX rapidly evolving into a premium mixed-use precinct, Kimpton Naluria Kuala Lumpur is positioned as both a city landmark and a community anchor, aligning with the brand’s philosophy of blending luxury with authenticity.

The hotel’s name reflects this approach. ‘Naluria’ combines the Malay words ‘Naluri’ (instinct) and ‘Ria’ (joy), expressing a concept centred on emotional connection and intuitive living. This philosophy extends across the guest experience, from design and dining to wellness and social interaction.

Paul Cunningham, General Manager of Kimpton Naluria Kuala Lumpur, said the opening reflects more than a physical expansion for the brand. “The opening of Kimpton Naluria Kuala Lumpur represents not only a new destination for the brand – it’s a promise to deliver what we’re globally recognised for: unique properties with truly unique guest experiences to match. From inspiring spaces and distinct dining to the brand’s human hospitality, we look forward to creating unforgettable experiences and immersive human-to-human connections that capture the very heart and soul of Kuala Lumpur,” he said.

Botanics-inspired design shaped by local identity

Designed by award-winning international studio Hassell, the hotel’s interiors follow a narrative described as “Botanics Beyond Aesthetics”. Drawing inspiration from Malaysia’s lush parklands and tropical rainforests, the design blends natural textures with bold, contemporary forms. A soaring, high-ceiling lobby framed by greenery sets the tone, while earthy hues, forest greens and organic materials flow through public spaces and guestrooms.

The hotel houses 466 guestrooms and suites across 26 storeys, offering views of key city landmarks including Merdeka 118 and KL Tower. Room interiors juxtapose monolithic surfaces and abstract rainforest-inspired artworks with colourful tiles, leaf-shaped mirrors and gilded bathroom fittings. Luxury bath amenities from ARgENTUM and Penhaligon’s complement locally curated minibar offerings, featuring Malaysian-inspired snacks and beverages exclusive to the property.

These design choices reinforce Kimpton’s intent to deliver a distinctly localised luxury experience, rather than a generic international aesthetic.

Dining, wellness and social connection at the core

Food and beverage play a central role at Kimpton Naluria Kuala Lumpur, with four destination dining and social venues designed to attract both hotel guests and the wider city community. Tuai + Till offers a dual concept, pairing a casual Malaysian café experience with a refined Western brasserie grounded in farm-to-table and fermentation-driven menus. Four Siblings, the only rooftop bar in TRX, introduces Malaysia’s first spice-themed cocktail concept, inspired by historic spice trade routes and bridging Malaysian and South American influences.

Rise & Grind brings a contemporary grab-and-go coffee experience rooted in local kopitiam culture, spotlighting homegrown Liberica beans, while Sabato’s, opening by early 2026, will introduce a retro Italian-American dining concept inspired by 1970s disco culture.

Wellness is equally prioritised, extending beyond traditional gym facilities. Guests have access to rooftop suspension training, self-powered treadmills, complimentary instructor-led fitness sessions and sunrise yoga. In-room yoga mats, locally inspired wellness minibar items and complimentary bicycles further support an active urban lifestyle.

Additional brand signatures include daily social rituals such as Kimpton Kickstart and Kimpton Social, designed to foster interaction among guests and locals. Looking ahead, The Connection Hub, set to open in early 2026, will expand the hotel’s role as a venue for intimate meetings and social gatherings.

As part of IHG’s growing global portfolio of Kimpton hotels, the Kuala Lumpur opening reinforces the brand’s momentum in the Asia Pacific region, while positioning TRX as a new focal point for lifestyle-led luxury hospitality in Malaysia.