HOTEL FEATURE JULY 2019

 

ELEMENT BY WESTIN KL

Where Green Living and Wellness Meet Art

By Sara Yeoh

 

The hotel industry is notorious for its impact on the environment, thanks to wasteful practices and oblivious guests. But when staying at the Element KL, you don’t have to worry about your contribution to earth pollution, as they announce themselves as an eco-conscious hotel with a GBI (Green Building Index) certification. Focused on smart living and inspired by art, guests can experience the element of being alive and well when staying at the Element KL.

GREEN INITIATIONS

From the rooms to the architecture, green is the motive when it comes to the design – zigzag steel beams to harvest rainwater, indoor CO2 monitors to control air quality, and large UV-filtered window panels to reduce the need for lights during the day. But perhaps the most impressive initiative by the Element KL is installing NSF-certified filtered water taps in all the rooms to eliminate the need for plastic water bottles. What is good for the environment is ultimately good for you too. Their indoor saline pool is amazing not just for the use of less chemicals, but for your hair and skin too. In the bathroom, the shampoos and body lotions are made with organic and premium plant-based ingredients for you (and the earth) to rejuvenate naturally.

ARTISTIC INHIBITIONS

Art adds beauty to the impressive building here and there. You will be welcomed with an enchanting light installation by Venezuelan artist Claudia Bueno at the lobby’s ceiling, where florals and corals are floating and dancing as its colours change like a chameleon. And in the hotel’s saline pool, you will be swimming above a tiled artwork by Yusof Ghani, which you will see in the reflection of the ceiling mirrors as you float on your back in the waters. Each floor also features paintings from Ilham art gallery, turning hallways into a display of artworks. Art enthusiasts can also flock to this art gallery located within the same building.

THE STAY

I checked into my one-bedroom suite that was spacious (no hotel claustrophobia involved) and bathed in a generous amount of sunlight, thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows. The living area is fitted with a kitchenette that comes equipped with an energy-efficient induction stove, fridge and dishwasher – perfect for extended stays. One can expect to unwind completely in the tub of its glossy marbled bathroom. After a hot bath, jump into their signature heavenly bed, which is exactly what it is, as I snoozed the night away instantly in the fluffy whites. In the morning, the ample sunlight that shines into the room is ideal for sun salutations. Otherwise, energise in their fully-equipped, 24-hour gym, or jump on a bike to explore the city with their Bike Lending Program. My favourite part of the stay was in the evening, when I dived in for a sunset swim in the saline pool, with a view of the orange city skyline.

TRACE RESTAURANT & BAR

Rise with the sun at Trace, with wholesome granolas and fruits, and freshly squeezed juices and smoothies, and a view of the Petronas Twin Towers (how ‘bout that?). For lodgers who have more calories to spare, their freshly baked assorted pastries with a sip of coffee will start your day right. For the truly Malaysians, their selection of Asian food like nasi and curries, steamed dim sum, or clear noodle soup cooked on the spot will satisfy you.

At night, treat yourself to a feast at their buffet. Hop from the BBQ and grill stations to the round trays of western and eastern selections, or wait for their meat trolleys to come to you for some tender beef briskets. And with vegetarian options like vegetable lasagne and truffled mushroom soup, there will be something to please everyone. Something special awaits at Trace every weekend that is their Arteastry Hi-Tea, where the chef turns your table into a delectable piece of dessert art as you dive into some fresh scones, macaroon and many more.

 

Address: Ilham Tower, 8, Jln Binjai, Kuala Lumpur, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 03-2771 3388

 

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