Cover Zul Zaed and Daniel Hamid established Builder Plus with a shared mission to make quality interior design accessible to all
Zul Zaed and Daniel Hamid established Builder Plus with a shared mission to make quality interior design accessible to all
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Born from adversity and driven by passion, Builder Plus MY is one of the new generation of interior design firms that challenge traditional industry boundaries
In a world where interior design is often treated as a luxury, Builder Plus MY is challenging the norm by bringing functional, beautiful spaces to everyday Malaysians.
Founded by engineering-turned-design entrepreneur Zul Zaed and his co-founder Daniel Hamid, the studio is known for its warm minimalism, thoughtful craftsmanship, and a bold mission: to make great design accessible to Malaysia’s growing middle-income families while breaking away from the idea that exceptional design is reserved for the elite.
Above Zul Zaed, Builder Plus co-founder and managing director
Zul Zaed, Builder Plus co-founder and managing director
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Raised by a working-class mother alongside his sister in a childhood home that had no sofa–an almost empty house–this memory sparked Zul’s desire to one day create beautiful, comfortable spaces for others.
Having discovered his love for art as early as three years old and pursued it quietly throughout his youth, Zul’s journey was never conventional. With his engineering background, he navigated university not just through books but through grit, working as a tutor, photographer, and restaurant waiter. Rather than seeing these as distractions, he viewed them as opportunities–windows that introduced him to people from different walks of life.
All of these experiences helped him build a strong network and refine his client relationship skills, representing the entrepreneurial spirit that drives the business forward today.
See also: Studio tour: Malaysian design studio transforms ‘70s building into a creative haven
Above Daniel Hamid, Builder Plus co-founder and design director
Daniel Hamid, Builder Plus co-founder and design director
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Daniel, on the other hand, brings formal design credentials as a proud member of the Malaysian Institute of Interior Designers (MIID)–achieving his ultimate dream after switching from engineering to interior design studies following his first year at university.
His career evolved through three complementary phases: beginning as an interior designer, then advancing to a cabinetry showroom, and finally transitioning to cabinet manufacturing. This progression gave him a unique perspective that bridges creative vision with practical execution—he learned to design not just with aesthetic sensibility, but with an intimate understanding of how every detail must translate into precise, durable construction for daily use.
While most people focus on the final form of home interiors, Daniel instead ruminates on the process – what are the technical building aspects that go into beautiful interior design?
Don’t miss: Clean craftsmanship: A conversation with Tan Wei Ming of Aureole Design
This unique blend of business acumen and meticulous craftsmanship forms the foundation of Builder Plus MY’s philosophy: that every Malaysian family deserves a home that’s not just functional, but truly inspiring.
Mid-century chic
Clean, sleek lines typical of mid-century modern aesthetics in the open-plan home that emphasises functionality
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For the Ara Residence in Nilai, Builder Plus MY showcases a reinterpretation of classic design movements for contemporary Malaysian living that feels fresh and relevant for today’s lifestyle needs.
Clean lines and sleek furniture typical of mid-century modern aesthetics take precedence across the open-plan home that emphasises functionality. Low-profile sofas, classic wooden chairs with woven backs, and minimalist coffee tables form a retro foundation, whereas beige walls and natural wood flooring create warmth, as strategic black metal accents and soft greys provide visual balance.
Read more: Home tour: A compact Kuala Lumpur penthouse with mid-century aesthetics
Serene simplicity
An uncluttered, open layout that promotes calm and easy movement
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Meanwhile, the Mulia Residence project in Cyberjaya draws inspiration from Muji’s philosophy of simplicity, as Builder Plus MY demonstrates versatility in adapting international design principles to local contexts.
Prioritising “breathing space” with an uncluttered, open layout that promotes calm and easy movement, light wood tones that permeate the space with warm minimalism characteristic of Japanese interiors–from the TV feature wall to ceiling panels and dining area.
See also: Home tour: A honey-coloured home in Moscow Oblast inspired by Japanese dwellings
While large windows with blinds and glass blocks provide privacy for the family and maximise natural light–a crucial adaptation to tropical living conditions, practical considerations for modern Malaysian homes are evident in the functional zoning for entertainment, dining, and relaxation.
Graceful glamour
A sophisticated yet welcoming home in Sepang for both family living and entertaining
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Besides that, Builder Plus MY delivers sophisticated, high-end interiors without compromising on livability in the Serenia Anisa project located in Sepang.
A dramatic marble TV wall with integrated soft lighting anchors the space, as luxurious materials–velvet-like fabrics, glossy surfaces, and gold accents–establish an opulent atmosphere, alongside statement chandeliers in both living and dining areas that add glamorous touches to the home.
Despite the luxury elements, the furniture features clean, modern silhouettes, as a neutral colour palette of greys, beiges, and taupes ensures the space feels sophisticated yet welcoming for both everyday family living and entertaining.
Book an appointment with Builder Plus MY today, at www.builderplusmy.com
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Credits
Photography: Builder Plus MY
Celeste Goh is a senior writer covering architecture and design. Based in Malaysia, she reports on emerging architectural and home design trends, as well as insights by local and international architects and interior designers.
Previously, she covered men’s lifestyle, fashion, music and entertainment.
