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Some buildings, especially in Jakarta, don’t look like much from the outside. The architecture might be cold and utilitarian, offering only harsh right angles and drab concrete. But venture inside and some buildings reveal unexpected charm, the welcoming conveniences of home, and striking interior design.

Morrissey Boutique Serviced Apartments in Jakarta is the perfect example of the blending of modern utility and a vintage interior, with a smattering of classic furniture and ornaments for embellishment. Located at the intersection of Jalan Jaksa and Jalan Wahid Hasyim, the apartments offer a vibrant urban lifestyle in downtown Jakarta with a fresh eclectic design that elevates the mood.

A huge manganese-steel sign etched with the name “Morrissey” welcomes passersby, while the front of the residence features the trendy Ocha & Bella restaurant.

Opening this year, the apartment offers 135 units with kitchenette and broadband internet facilities. Both daily and monthly rates are available.

The building, named after the iconic British singer Steven Patrick Morrissey, a favorite of the hotel owner (who asked not to be identified), conveys the singer’s unique style. The interior combines elements of a Dutch colonial home and an old industrial apartment. But unlike many establishments in the city that are characterized by incongruous designs, the unlikely combination truly works at Morrissey, creating a homey ambience for guests.

The foyer is an oasis for weary travelers. Designed to resemble a living room, the lobby is both cozy and spacious with a unique, relaxed feel. “When I first arrived in the lobby, I felt like I was at home,’’ said Lanny Gesang, general manager of Morrissey.

The interior of the lobby is a striking contrast with the harsh industrial style of gray concrete ceilings and pillars and black steel bars nearby. The lobby features jengki furniture that was popular in the 1950s, as well as tall green trees looming over the reception area, old textbooks neatly arranged in glass cabinets and a beautiful old gramophone. By the front door and just below the staircase stands a 1955 black BMW motorbike with sidecar.

Then there is something sexy, mysterious and dramatic about the staircase. It is encircled with floor-to-ceiling black iron bars and wood-paneled floors, a striking contrast to the beautiful red Victorian armchairs placed neatly at the landing.

“It’s the favorite spot for our guests to take pictures,’’ Lanny said.

The business center is equally stunning. With wood floors, wood-paneled walls and antique furniture, it is reminiscent of a study in an old house. Guests can have an informal meeting or enjoy a leisurely read on the chairs, which resemble the low, reclining seat of a becak (tricycle).

In another corner is an exquisite pair of solid mahogany Victorian dressers, on top of which lie stacks of old dog-eared books, a vintage black rotary dial telephone and an antique diver’s helmet made of brass.

A row of old school desks are clustered together in the center with four wide-screen Macintosh computers keeping guests connected to the Internet. Industrial lamps hanging above the desks create a studious, even poetic, look. At the far end of the business center is a floor-to-ceiling blackboard with mathematical formulas written in white chalk, adding to the academic and inspiring feel.

The apartment units look spartan, with whitewashed brick walls and exposed concrete ceilings. But the stark ambience in the room is cleverly balanced with wooden parquet floors, white furniture sets with unusual designs and modern fixtures.

Even the laundrette on the third floor is eye-catching, with its wood-paneled floors, walls and ceilings shaped like a cocoon. There are a few washing machines and a box of detergent, which guests can use free of charge.

But the most stunning part of the residence is undoubtedly its rooftop garden, swimming pool and gym. The garden overlooks bustling Jalan Wahid Hasyim and is composed simply of a patch of green grass and potted trees. A set of O-shaped rattan chairs provides guests a relaxing alfresco setting without the torment of harsh direct sunlight.

The infinity swimming pool is faintly reminiscent of Marina Bay Sands in Singapore. It boasts a 180-degree view of downtown Jakarta, framed by the Monas and glitzy skyscrapers and modern office buildings on Jalan Thamrin, with busy traffic along Jalan Menteng at the end of the panorama. A frangipani tree with delicate yellow flowers highlights the far end of the swimming pool.

“It’s my favorite spot in the hotel,” Lanny said. “It’s got a very relaxing feel and stunning views all around.” The glass-walled gym overlooks the pool, and provides a couple of step-mill and treadmill machines and a set of barbells.

Adjacent to the gym is the resident’s lounge, which is tastefully appointed with soft, plush leather-upholstered sofas and an elegant white dining furniture set. Guests at the apartment can also enjoy free Wi-Fi access at the lounge. In deference to the holidays, a white Christmas tree adorned with bells and tinsel twinkled beautifully in a recent December evening.

Much like Jakarta itself, Morrissey is full of surprises. It succeeds because it’s rough on the outside, but welcoming on the inside. And like Jakarta, Morrissey feels like home.

Morrissey Boutique Serviced Apartments
Jl. Wahid Hasyim No 70
Menteng
Central Jakarta
iammorrissey.com
Tel. 021 2993 3333