The recurring arch element is prominent throughout the home (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
Cover A home inspired by classic European architecture, designed by IDent_3 (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
The recurring arch element is prominent throughout the home (Photo: The Space Storyteller)

Juxtaposing modern design elements and classic detailing, modern classic homes are anything but stuffy, as these ten Malaysian homes elegantly demonstrate

At its core, the modern classic style embraces the warmth and character of traditional design while incorporating the simplicity and openness associated with modern spaces. 

Drawing inspiration from classic designs such as Victorian, Art Deco, and even Greek and Roman, this approach allows homeowners to enjoy the best of both worlds: the comfort and charm of classic aesthetics combined with the practicality and efficiency of contemporary living.

Here are ten Malaysian homes that fuse timelessness and subtle sophistication, resulting in interiors that are both luxurious and livable.

Read more: Home tour: This luxurious Good Class Bungalow houses a neurosurgeon’s remarkable art collection

1. A penthouse for a fashion icon in Kuala Lumpur

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Photo 1 of 3 The social hub combines living, dining and kitchen spaces. Photos: David Yeow
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Located in the Star Residences in downtown Kuala Lumpur, this penthouse belongs to international fashion icon Datuk Jimmy Choo. The 1,754 sq ft space was designed around the renowned shoe designer’s tastes and personality by award-winning interior designers OD&A.

It was conceived as a venue for Choo to entertain his guests and friends in the city, and as an inspirational hub for him to display and work on his beautiful new creations. The overall inspiration for this project was celebrating his legacy and influence. Since many of Choo’s designs are bespoke, the designers also wanted the furniture to have personal touches.

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Above The handsome master bedroom showcases updated classics like the Capitone armchair
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Above The dining table legs spell out Jimmy Choo’s initials

The luxurious modern classic space balances Choo’s past and present. Staying true to Choo’s local Asian heritage, cultural and nostalgic elements from the designer’s upbringing were showcased with touches of oriental flair.

Regarding the overall colour palette, the striking blue was inspired by Choo’s unique sense of style. A homage to Choo’s legacy of bespoke shoe designs, many of the furniture pieces were designed specifically for Choo, with his initials carefully incorporated in the form by local craftsmen.

Read more here.

See also: The Most Expensive Condominiums and Penthouses in Penang

2. A Parisian chic penthouse in Selangor

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Photo 1 of 2 Upholstered furniture soften the stone detailsPhotos: The Space Storyteller
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Located in suburban Subang Jaya, this sprawling penthouse with an excess of 3,000 sq ft of space was designed by the Nevermore Group for a young couple with two children.

The designers settled on a contemporary Parisian concept with dark wood accents to ensure the space felt warm and welcoming while retaining an elegant ambience. A sense of arrival was created from the foyer, which was reconfigured to correct some layout errors and now features a hidden door adorned with commissioned artwork.

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Above Arabescato Orobico marble from Italy, which was applied to the island counter and dry kitchen cabinet drawers
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Above The hidden door is a decorative flourish

In keeping with the refined Parisian feel, material choices were carefully curated. Precious stones were favoured, like Arabescato Orobico marble from Italy, which was applied to the island counter and dry kitchen cabinet drawers. Bookmatch Dyna beige marble, also from Italy, was applied liberally throughout the powder room, concealed behind a hidden door close to the dry kitchen.

Upholstered furniture in neutral colours and sophisticated shapes from Timeless Design adds the finishing touches to the home and a soft touch to the palette of dark wood and sleek stone. The chic project took home an award at the Asia Pacific Property Awards in London in 2022.

Read more here.

Don’t miss: Home Tour: An Interior Designer’s Luxe Minimalist Kuala Lumpur Home

3. A mansion in Kuala Lumpur with a dedicated wing for luxury cars

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Photo 1 of 3 A sense of grandeur is evoked as guests enter the foyer (Photos: Lawrence Choo)
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Known as The White Mansion, Box Interior Design created a palatial home which honours its owner’s love for the modern classical style and penchant for exotic cars.

Located in Ampang Jaya, the massive 24,000 sq ft land saw the existing house being demolished and a new structure built to meet the client’s requirements of having higher ceilings and a much bigger built-up area.

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Photo 1 of 2 The designer linked the bungalow with a glass bridge to a standalone building that houses a garage
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The colonial-style bungalow showcases the characteristics of neoclassical design, namely the ornamental pediment, decorative copings, and lattice windows in symmetrical form. Instead of the conventional overhang pitched roof, the 2.5-storey house is topped with a pitched shingle roof without overhang, which creates a vaulted ceiling and a cosy loft-like area inside.

Interior design was kept upscale yet tasteful with a precise curation of subtle colours and sleek lines to abet a sense of calm for its residents. Detailing is well-crafted with fine wainscotting and cornices to further the chosen modern classic aesthetic.

Read more here.

Read more: Home Tour: A Multi-Generational Home in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, by the Sea

4. A modern french penthouse in Kuala Lumpur

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Photo 1 of 2 Angles are softened with a timber cladding (Photos: TWJPTO Studio))
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Located in a penthouse in downtown Kuala Lumpur, a modern French concept was decided on for the client, who lives alone with her adorable poodle. This choice was arrived at by Pins Design Studio to create a distinctively artistic atmosphere for the client, who’s an avid art collector and design enthusiast.

To match her high taste and fondness for bespoke design, the designers employed a neutral backdrop to combine various stylish materials and designer furniture. 

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Photo 1 of 3 Rattan finishing was used for the wardrobe’s doors, continuously wrap around the adjacent walls and the door that leads to the master bathroom
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In the living room, diverse standalone pieces are elegantly presented via a harmonious interplay of tones and textures. A plush and curvy sofa is complemented with an abstract-shaped coffee table, while the flat TV screen is set against a white panelled wall that gently curves at the corner.

The dining room is highlighted by a table with legs that resemble Roman pillars. At the same time, a cluster of balloon-like lamps illuminates the area with a cosy glow, and rattan dining chairs infuse the space with a natural appeal.

Read more here.

See also: Home Tour: A Bohemian-Style Holiday Villa in Saint-Tropez

5. A pre-war terrace house with a modern interior in Penang

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Photo 1 of 2 The long narrow living room leads to the dining room (Photos; The Space Storyteller)
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The home of Partners interior designers Chuah Say Yang and Chong Su Min, who head design firms NEVERMORE and Xcent Design Consultancy respectively, is located in a transformed pre-war terrace house in the heart of George Town, Penang.

The narrow two-storey property was afflicted with the problem most terrace houses face: the lack of natural light. The solution was solved by gutting out most of the house's original interior, implementing an open concept, and introducing skylights to allow light to penetrate the space.

 

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Photo 1 of 3 The ultra-modern kitchen in black FENIX laminate features handless cabinet doors and drawers with Blum mechanisms
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Arabescato Orobico marble from Italy was installed on the bar counter, while natural solid teak wood flooring laid in chevron patterns creates a classy mood for the bedrooms.

The home is finessed with elegant furniture sourced from the couple’s suppliers and accented with designer pieces such as the modern classic icon Moooi Smoke Chair by Maarten Baas and Southeast Asian decorative elements collected during trips to Bali, Singapore and Bangkok.

Read more here.

Don’t miss: Home tour: A minimalist abode in Singapore with beach-House elements

6. A grand residence anchored by marble in Kuala Lumpur

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Photo 1 of 2 The residence features eight different types of marble in various shapes for maximum visual impact (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
Photo 2 of 2 The living area that exudes modern opulence (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
The residence features eight different types of marble in various shapes for maximum visual impact (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
The living area that exudes modern opulence (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
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The double-height dining area with scenic views (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
Above The double-height dining area with scenic views (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
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Soft pistachio green and wood in the kitchen (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
Above Soft pistachio green and wood in the kitchen (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
The double-height dining area with scenic views (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
Soft pistachio green and wood in the kitchen (Photo: The Space Storyteller)

Located in a tranquil, affluent Kuala Lumpur neighbourhood with a juxtaposition of lush landscapes and city skyline views, Kort Studio drew inspiration from the client’s diverse material preferences to create distinct personalities for each space in this residence.

Spanning 8,500 sq ft, the eight-bedroom home centres around eight different types of marble in various shapes for maximum visual impact, while bamboo flooring is also incorporated in line with the client’s sustainability preferences.

See also: Feng shui tips for creating a healthy and happy kids room

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The cream-toned bedroom with wood and marble accents (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
Above The cream-toned bedroom with wood and marble accents (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
The cream-toned bedroom with wood and marble accents (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
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A seating space in the bedroom (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
Above A seating space in the bedroom (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
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The vanity corner with plenty of wood-panelled storage (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
Above The vanity corner with plenty of wood-panelled storage (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
A seating space in the bedroom (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
The vanity corner with plenty of wood-panelled storage (Photo: The Space Storyteller)

Themed “monochrome opulence” and “serene eclectic” across two distinct living spaces, each encompassing a living area, dining space, and kitchen, a significant portion of the furniture, lighting fixtures, decorative items, and artwork were custom-made to achieve an ambience that perfectly suits the client’s personalised vision and luxurious lifestyle.

Read more here

Don’t miss: Home tour: Inside a colourful, vintage-style Taipei apartment designed by AB Concept

7. A modern Selangor manor inspired by classic European architecture

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Photo 1 of 3 The recurring arch element is prominent throughout the home (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
Photo 2 of 3 A delicate colour scheme and subtle interplay of shapes and materials (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
Photo 3 of 3 The 200-year-old antique mirror in the living room (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
The recurring arch element is prominent throughout the home (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
A delicate colour scheme and subtle interplay of shapes and materials (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
The 200-year-old antique mirror in the living room (Photo: The Space Storyteller)

IDent_3, winner of the Designer on the Rise award at the Tatler Homes Design Awards 2024, weaved classic European architecture with clean modernity for this home in Kota Kemuning Hills, Shah Alam.

Inspired by cathedrals, castles, and mansions encountered during the clients’ European travels, the arch is a recurring element throughout the 8,700 sq ft home, whereas vaulted ceilings in the foyer and dining room further enhance the sense of grandeur.

Read more: What crazy rich Asians are looking for in luxury property today, according to an expert

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Photo 1 of 3 The single piece of internally lit quartzite marble island in the dry kitchen (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
Photo 2 of 3 The archway theme extends into the bathroom (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
Photo 3 of 3 Rustic exposed ceiling beams in the bedroom (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
The single piece of internally lit quartzite marble island in the dry kitchen (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
The archway theme extends into the bathroom (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
Rustic exposed ceiling beams in the bedroom (Photo: The Space Storyteller)

Dramatic focal points punctuate the interior, from the sculptural bathtub in the main bathroom; to the 200-year-old antique mirror in the living room; to the single piece of internally lit quartzite marble for the dry kitchen’s island.

Balancing these dramatic and visual elements are incorporations of quieter, understated choices. The living room, for instance, features a delicate colour scheme and subtle interplay of shapes and materials, with a curved sofa embracing a more angular coffee table.

Read more here

See also: Home tour: A luxurious duplex penthouse in New York City with opulent surprises

8. A modern classic home in Shah Alam inspired by grand hotels

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Photo 1 of 3 A blend of opulence and comfort that drew inspiration from luxury hotels (Photo: BricksBegin)
Photo 2 of 3 Champagne-gold accents in the dining area (Photo: BricksBegin)
Photo 3 of 3 Arabescato marble in the dry kitchen (Photo: BricksBegin)
A blend of opulence and comfort that drew inspiration from luxury hotels (Photo: BricksBegin)
Champagne-gold accents in the dining area (Photo: BricksBegin)
Arabescato marble in the dry kitchen (Photo: BricksBegin)
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Deep velvet blue provides a pop of colour (Photo: BricksBegin)
Above Deep velvet blue provides a pop of colour (Photo: BricksBegin)
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An Art Deco-inspired shine from the credenza (Photo: BricksBegin)
Above An Art Deco-inspired shine from the credenza (Photo: BricksBegin)
Deep velvet blue provides a pop of colour (Photo: BricksBegin)
An Art Deco-inspired shine from the credenza (Photo: BricksBegin)

Nestled in the verdant Elmina East Garden, Shah Alam, the 6,000 sq ft semi-detached home blends opulence and comfort, drawing inspiration from luxury hotels and the refined aesthetics of Mayfair, London.

Designed by Lux Studio Interior, the “contemporary, timeless luxury” themed project involved a complete overhaul of both interior and exterior. Only the original staircase remained, as the space was transformed into a luxurious “staycation home.”

To achieve the desired opulent hotel-like ambience, a base palette of natural stone, wood, and steel provides coherence throughout, with subtle variations distinguishing each space.

Don’t miss: Hong Kong architect and designer Steve Leung reimagines Baccarat’s iconic Zénith chandelier

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Photo 1 of 2 The neutral palette enlivened by astute material choices (Photo: BricksBegin)
Photo 2 of 2 The luxury hotel inspiration is particualrly evident in the master bathroom (Photo: BricksBegin)
The neutral palette enlivened by astute material choices (Photo: BricksBegin)
The luxury hotel inspiration is particualrly evident in the master bathroom (Photo: BricksBegin)

The ground floor features harder textures, exemplified by Arabescato marble in the dry kitchen and champagne-gold stainless steel accents. In contrast, the upstairs bedrooms exude serenity with soothing colours, wall-to-wall carpets, and floor-to-ceiling drapes.

Bespoke furniture pieces, designed by Lux Studio Interiors and crafted by local artisans, are complemented by selections from international design brands like Caracole and Ralph Lauren Home.

Read more here

Read more: Home tour: A Singapore super penthouse dressed in shades of plum blossoms

9. A contemporary chic home imbued with quiet luxury in Penang

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Chaos Design Studio's modern classic reimagining of this family home in Penang (Photo: TWJPTO)
Above Chaos Design Studio's modern classic reimagining of this family home in Penang (Photo: TWJPTO)
Chaos Design Studio's modern classic reimagining of this family home in Penang (Photo: TWJPTO)
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Handsome wooden panelling anchors the living space (Photo: TWJPTO)
Above Handsome wooden panelling anchors the living space (Photo: TWJPTO)
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Sculptural bar stools and sleek lines from the bar counter (Photo: TWJPTO)
Above Sculptural bar stools and sleek lines from the bar counter (Photo: TWJPTO)
Handsome wooden panelling anchors the living space (Photo: TWJPTO)
Sculptural bar stools and sleek lines from the bar counter (Photo: TWJPTO)

For a couple with two growing children residing in Butterworth, Penang, Chaos Design Studio created a space that merges timeless elegance with modern simplicity, resulting in a home that is not only enjoyable to live in but also showcases the homeowners’ preferred aesthetics.

Throughout the semi-detached home, the union of classical beauty and contemporary chic is evident, as a curated palette of neutral and earthy tones harmonises the classical and modern elements.

See also: Ultimate Malaysian Home Tours guide: 7 stunning homes in Penang

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Photo 1 of 3 The serene master bedroom imbued with quiet luxury (Photo: TWJPTO)
Photo 2 of 3 A marbled back wall alongside rich dark wood (Photo: TWJPTO)
Photo 3 of 3 The arched vanity corner (Photo: TWJPTO)
The serene master bedroom imbued with quiet luxury (Photo: TWJPTO)
A marbled back wall alongside rich dark wood (Photo: TWJPTO)
The arched vanity corner (Photo: TWJPTO)

Nero black marble walls and white calacatta marble dining tables, alongside classic wainscoting of rich dark wood, custom-made PVD-coated stainless-steel racks, ornate mouldings, classical columns and arches add depth and visual intrigue without overwhelming the contemporary design.

Meanwhile, clean, minimalist lines imbue the space with nuanced details, with custom pieces with soft textures and store-bought modern furnishings infusing every corner with understated luxury.

Read more here

Don’t miss: Home tour: An updated Neo-Italian Renaissance townhouse in Brooklyn with green accents

10. A majestic home in Selangor inspired by 5-star hotels

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The quartzite marble wall adds glamorous statement in the living room (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
Above The quartzite marble wall adds glamorous statement in the living room (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
The quartzite marble wall adds glamorous statement in the living room (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
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The gold console adds visual interest in the foyer (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
Above The gold console adds visual interest in the foyer (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
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The handsome wood panelling along the stairway (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
Above The handsome wood panelling along the stairway (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
The gold console adds visual interest in the foyer (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
The handsome wood panelling along the stairway (Photo: The Space Storyteller)

A young couple with two small children sought the help of IDent_3 to translate the grand aesthetics of 5-star hotel interiors into their home nestled in The Grandezza @ Eco Sanctuary’s lush surroundings.

Youthful exuberance and sophisticated elegance permeate the 5,000 sq ft space, enhanced by the natural light that pours in through full-length glass windows while also maximising views of the vertical garden with water cascading into a pool, evoking a jungle-like atmosphere.

Read more: Home tour: Inside jewellery designer Shubhra Sen’s luxurious duplex penthouse in Mumbai, India

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Photo 1 of 2 Sculptural dining chairs that contrast the marble dining table (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
Photo 2 of 2 Marble creates tension with demure wood in the dry kitchen (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
Sculptural dining chairs that contrast the marble dining table (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
Marble creates tension with demure wood in the dry kitchen (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
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The visually indulgent vanity nook (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
Above The visually indulgent vanity nook (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
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The luxury hotel-inspired bathroom (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
Above The luxury hotel-inspired bathroom (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
The visually indulgent vanity nook (Photo: The Space Storyteller)
The luxury hotel-inspired bathroom (Photo: The Space Storyteller)

Dramatic elements with playful tensions abound throughout the home.

Against a muted colour palette of hushed greys, beiges, and creamy-brown veneer panelling, the double-volume living room features a quartzite marble wall, while a translucent green-and black-marble island stands out against the demure wood panelling in the dry kitchen.

Further adding visual interest is the clever interplay in lighting, furniture, and detailing. For instance, the sculptural, almost geological curves of the foyer’s console table contrast with the cyclone-shaped chandelier in the living room. 

Read more here

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