From Abandoned Shophouses To A Cultural Icon: The Revival Of The Row, KL

6/1/2025

A Street Once Left Behind

In the 1940s, Jalan Doraisamy was alive with commerce and nightlife. Over the decades, however, its pulse faded. What once thrived became neglected — colonial-era shophouses left abandoned, nightlife replaced with crime, and the street’s reputation tarnished. Between 2012 and 2015, incidents of fights and even deaths cast a shadow over the area.

When the Vision Awakened

Where most saw decay, a group of visionary developers saw potential. Their idea wasn’t to erase the past, but to preserve the heritage while reimagining the future.

  • 22 heritage shophouses were carefully restored.

  • Original façades were preserved while interiors were modernized.

  • Instead of nightclubs, cafés, creative studios, and event spaces emerged.

  • The revival was done in phases smart, sustainable, and respectful to the site’s legacy.

This adaptive reuse brought new purpose without losing history, blending nostalgia with innovation.

Real Impact from Reviving The Row

The transformation wasn’t just cosmetic it changed the community:

  • Crime & Safety Improvements: Replacing clubs with cafés and co-working spots brought a safer, calmer night environment.

  • Increased Footfall & Activity: Daytime and weekend visitors returned, revitalizing the area’s economy.

  • Cultural & Social Impact: The Row was rated highly for culture, design, and comfort. It became a hub for local entrepreneurs, designers, and community gatherings.

The Row Today

Today, The Row is celebrated as an award-winning adaptive reuse project. It has become:

  • A living street full of cafés, creative offices, and restaurants.

  • A platform for local brands and designers.

  • A cultural icon that proves how thoughtful redevelopment can transform neglected spaces into vibrant communities.

Looking Forward

At NCG, stories like The Row inspire us. They show what happens when bold vision meets disciplined execution. We thrive by working with visionary partners who want to turn neglected assets into thriving spaces.

If this story resonates, let’s build the next one together.
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Reference: https://www.studiobikin.com/the-row.php