The Estate Hulu Rening is a stylish cliff-side getaway in the Pahang rainforest
Nestled in the lush Pahang rainforest, The Estate Hulu Rening is a testament to architectural ingenuity and a harmonious blend of industrial design and natural beauty. With its panoramic view of Sungai Rening, this multi-level private retreat in Batang Kali seamlessly integrates into the area’s topography while ensuring no harm to the surrounding trees during construction.
Spanning an approximate 3,720 sq ft built-up on 10,720 sq ft of land, The Estate is a passion project of Dato’ Azril Mohd Radzi, an established healthcare and beauty entrepreneur. When choosing a site, Azril was captivated by the river meandering through the land and envisioned a weekend family holiday home that celebrates the land’s natural characteristics.
Read more: 5 tips on starting your own vintage Eames collection
To bring his vision to life, Azril and Alfian Mohd from AR Design and Interior enlisted the expertise of architectural and engineering professionals.
Together, they embarked on a journey to create a structure integrated with its surroundings.
See also: ‘Every building is a house’: Kengo Kuma on the future of architecture
Above The firepit is a nod to Scandinavian cabin
Above Nature is ever present in this retreat
The concept was rooted in Azril and Alfian’s love for travelling and their appreciation of the Nordic cabin aesthetic.
This inspiration guided the design process, creating a space that evokes a sense of serenity and understated elegance.
Don't miss: 5 Japandi-style hotels to get cosy in
The realisation of The Estate was not without its challenges, with the team facing the intricate task of ensuring the safety and stability of the structure.
This was overcome by conducting thorough soil testing and implementing necessary precautions.
Read more: 5 magnificent multi-generational family homes in Malaysia
Above Azril and Alfian curated objects inspired by their love for travel
Above Furniture was sourced locally
The choice of materials and finishes reflects a deliberate effort to marry the industrial aesthetic with the surrounding natural elements.
The Estate’s exterior boasts corrugated steel cladding, painted in a sleek black hue in contrast to the vibrant greenery enveloping the property. This juxtaposition serves to accentuate the architectural features of the building, allowing it to harmonise with the forested backdrop.
See also: Home tour: A sustainable wabi-sabi home in Kuala Lumpur
Above Seamless indoor-outdoor living
Interior walls are adorned with cement boards, carefully selected for their lighter weight.
This choice was especially significant as the main building bears the weight of the cliff wing, which houses all the bedrooms. The polished cement flooring throughout The Estate adds a touch of industrial charm.
Don't miss: Home tour: A tropical modernist Miami home with stunning art deco influences
Above A plunge pool surrounded by nature
Above Seamless indoor-outdoor living
Furniture curated by Azril and Alfian populates the Estate, often utilising pieces crafted with traditional carpentry methods and local timber such as Jati, Merbau and Balau.
Read more: Home tour: An eco-conscious home in Las Vegas with breathtaking desert views
Above Cozy bedrooms
In January 2023, Azril decided to open The Estate to the public, offering it as a rental and stay option - so others may experience this immersive environment and its profound connection with nature.
NOW READ
6 Korean design hotels in Seoul and Jeju to visit for the perfect autumn holiday
10 tranquil modern resort-style homes around Malaysia
5 design hotels in Japan to visit in autumn
Topics




