The sea-fronting colonial mansions along Penang’s Millionaire’s Row (Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah) have never failed to impress visitors and locals with their distinct architecture and stories of the well-heeled, their lawn parties and a time where social etiquette and classy ways ruled the day.

If there is one thing which stands out with all properties along this stretch (which include homes, a university, palace, condominium, a private club, restaurants, corporate buildings and a hotel and school) is the amazing views they offer from their sea-fronting addresses.

Lava Mansion is the newest kid on the block and functions as a multi-usage space. A boutique hotel is expected to make its debut on the grounds of the two-acre grounds by year-end, and there are also talks of a wellness space in the works.

The four-storey property with an adjoining British-inspired two-level mews (comprising servants’ quarters with garages below) boasts beautiful and expansive lawns and a sea-fronting pavillion (which will soon be featured as a bar), was the stately home of an illustrious Penang family. The clever use of space (with a forward-thinking elevator installed by its owners) tells a tale of a family home in the true sense of the word, where generations enjoyed the fresh breezes, stunning sunrises and sunsets and most likely even fun rounds of mahjong with family and friends.

The mansion’s custodian and business operator, Daniel Chee, is obviously a foodie who takes his menus seriously and is not afraid to get his chefs to experiment in the kitchen.

His designer wife Vivian is looking forward to welcoming her patrons to her atelier on the first floor, which commands a grand view of Kedah Peak and the fishing boats bobbing around the northern shore.

A great way to start one’s morning with-a-view is with breakfast (served from 8am) at the mansion.