Heeren Street, also known as Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock in modern times, was once Melaka’s Millionaire’s Row – a narrow thoroughfare rich in historical resonance. The architectural vocabulary along this street weaves Dutch, Peranakan, and Chinese influences, with a predominant focus on Dutch aesthetics due to its initial construction by the Dutch in the 17th century.
The compact exteriors belie expansive interiors within, a discrepancy from historical taxation policies that based levies on building width rather than total area. Some residences span up to 100 metres, adorned with private courtyards, wells, intricate metal spiral staircases, decorative tiling, and other exquisite features.
Owning one of these storied houses has always been a dream for interior designer and antiques enthusiast Jennifer Ker. She and her husband hail from nearby Muar and had made their home in Kuala Lumpur, but Melaka was a frequent stop for short trips, whether for antique shopping or family holidays.
Source: CNA
