Mercantile Bank Building, Ipoh
OPEN FOR PUBLIC. SOME AREAS MAY BE PROHIBITED.
CHARGES MAY APPLY FOR SOME AREAS OR ACTIVITIES.
A distinguished emblem of the city's colonial past and architectural heritage. Completed in 1931, this three-story edifice exemplifies the Art Deco style, characterized by its symmetrical façade, vertical towers and ornamental details such as festoons and flagpoles. The building's design was the work of the architectural firm Keys & Dowdeswell, with contributions from Danish architect Berthel Michael Iversen, who was instrumental in introducing modernist architecture to Malaya.
Originally serving as the Ipoh branch of the Mercantile Bank of India Ltd., the building was inaugurated by British Resident Bertram Elles on August 29, 1931. The bank occupied the ground floor, while the upper levels were leased to various tenants, including the law firm Maxwell and Kenion and the architects themselves. A notable feature of the building was its rooftop garden, equipped with a kitchen, bar and dressing rooms, reflecting the opulence of the era.
In 1959, the Mercantile Bank was acquired by the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC), marking a significant chapter in the building's history. Today, the structure remains well-preserved and continues to be a prominent landmark in Ipoh, currently housing a beauty products company.
For visitors exploring Ipoh's rich tapestry of colonial architecture, the Mercantile Bank Building offers a glimpse into the city's economic and cultural development during the early 20th century. Its enduring presence stands as a testament to the architectural ingenuity and historical significance that continue to define Ipoh's urban landscape.
