Kuala Lumpur: On Jun 16, Urbanspace Sdn Bhd, a first time niche property developer, has launched its 74,000 sq ft mixed development dubbed The Row on Jalan Doraisamy and unveiled the events cluster Slate.

Present at the launch: (From left) Dato’ Nafsiah Abu Bakar, Datuk Mahadi bin Che Ngah, William Ng, Ghaus Ismail, Datuk Bandar Tan Sri Hj. Ahmad Phesal bin Hj. Talib, Chan Chia Lin, Whang Shang Ying and Zurida bt. Hashim.

The launch event was officiated by Kuala Lumpur Mayor Tan Sri Hj. Ahmad Phesal bin Hj. Talib.

“In urban development, we must find the delicate balance between the old and the new, and the commercial and the communal. The Row is another project that will complement DBKL’s efforts to recognise Kuala Lumpur’s architectural heritage, whilst promoting active community life in the city centre,” said Tan Sri Hj. Ahmad Phesal.

The Row comprises 22 units of 1940s pre-war shophouses that were once part of the popular nightlife spot, Asian Heritage Row.

The Row is being readapted into a mixed development consisting of around 30 tenable units that will feature specialist retail shops, galleries, cafes, bars, restaurants as well as offices developed under the rubric of urban regeneration.

“Urbanspace embraces a fresh redevelopment approach that combines the old and the new. We believe KL is ready for more expansions that culminates with creative adaptations of existing buildings.

“We hope both locals and tourists alike will come to find The Row to be a refreshing alternative to the ubiquitous shiny high-rises that have come to characterise KL,” said Urbanspace Sdn Bhd director Ghaus bin Ismail.

The Row combines the charisma of the old, with a fresh design-conscious functionality.

“We have a vision of creating a design-oriented environment that embraces greenery, natural light and common external spaces; and a neighbourhood of complementary and unique businesses,” said Urbanspace Sdn Bhd creative director Chan Chia Lin.

The first phase of the development features Slate, an event space that is open for lease with immediate effect. The space encompasses a 2,800 sq ft ground floor area and a 500 sq ft mezzanine, and will also be furnished with state-of-the-art events equipment.

The collaboration between Urbanspace Sdn Bhd and several independent firms has made the development of The Row becoming a reality. The developer is working with Pocket Projects, a creative development consultancy that specialises in adaptive reuse of old buildings and Studio Bikin, a homegrown architecture firm.

For more information on The Row, please visit http://therowkl.com/