Upstairs Downstairs KL Review: A Unique Boutique Hotel & a Co-Working Spaces for WFA Travelers Near Jalan Alor Night Market

I’ve always been drawn to hotels that feel a little unique — places that don’t try too hard to be “proper” or overly polished in a typical 4- or 5-star way. 

I love stays with personality: playful layouts, thoughtful details, and a natural flow that makes the room feel lived-in rather than staged. The kind of space that feels relaxed, creative, and quietly inspiring.

On my recent trip to Kuala Lumpur, I stayed at Upstairs Downstairs, and it turned out to be a really pleasant surprise. I’ll be honest — the car drop-off isn’t the most convenient spot, especially if you’re arriving with luggage. (It's not very easy to spot this hotel in the night) But once you’re settled in, the location more than makes up for it. It’s just a short walk to the MRT, and Jalan Alor’s famous night market is right nearby, which makes food options incredibly easy and convenient.

I also want to share a bit about the check-in process. While the automated locker system can be convenient, it can also be tricky—especially if you’re juggling lots of luggage or it’s raining. I personally got stuck outside the door for at least 10 minutes because I couldn’t figure out the locker right away. 

There’s no on-site staff to assist, and everyone inside uses the automated card to enter, whether they’re hotel guests like you or co-sharing space users. So, be prepared for a little trial-and-error if it’s your first time!

I have to say, the design of the hotel corridors is really impressive — Nordic-inspired, stylish, and unique. Walking through them feels like a whole experience in itself… and wow, that’s one seriously long corridor!

The room itself exceeded my expectations. Even without a window, it didn’t feel cramped or stuffy at all — instead, it felt warm, cozy, and surprisingly comfortable. 

The layout was smart and intentional, and the standout feature for me was the large work table. Since I was Working from anywhere (WFA) on this trip, having a proper workspace made such a difference. It turned work hours into something far more enjoyable and stress-free than balancing a laptop on a bed or tiny desk.

What I really appreciated was that the experience didn’t end in the room. If you’re not the type who enjoys staying cooped up all day, the shared spaces are a big plus. The lobby doubles as an open-concept co-sharing workspace, complete with a relaxed vibe that makes it easy to focus or casually connect. 

There’s also a shared kitchen and pantry, plus a few game stations for when you need a break. It’s the kind of setup that naturally supports a rhythm of work, rest, and play — no pressure, no formality.

All in all, Upstairs Downstairs felt less like a conventional hotel stay and more like a thoughtfully designed space for modern travellers who value comfort, flexibility, and a little bit of fun in their stay.

Having said that, you’ll have plenty of space to yourself on the ground floor, as it’s often quite empty — which is so shiok! 

I didn’t plan a full day dedicated to productivity, which was a bit of a pity. (Will be backed!) There are lots of cozy corners, perfect for introverts who want to chill and focus in a calm, pleasant environment. It’s quiet, comfortable, and ideal for working smart (and hard) without distractions.

At the back — or actually the front, but you’ll see why when you get here — there’s an open-concept laundry area with a seriously impressive design. It’s nothing like the typical hotel laundry rooms you’d expect.

Details for your reference:

PRICES 

SGD$23-29/- per night

Location Address: 

📍Upstairs Downstairs Co-Living @ Bukit Bintang, KL

170, Jln Pudu, Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia•+60 10-226 4293

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