Laidback and cosy, this home in Petaling Jaya for a young family was designed to be sustainable
Set in the township of Tropicana Indah, this home was set in a terrace block of identical houses with varying degrees of renovation.
The couple who bought the typical double-story unit wanted their home to feel individualistic—a calm space to return to after a hectic day and a warm, loving environment to raise their young family.
As is usual with terrace houses, the existing house had issues of lack of ventilation and natural light, so to transform the house and create this haven of peace, they commissioned IDCandy.
Read more: 14 terrace houses in Malaysia with amazing renovations

Above The view at dusk

Above Breeze blocks add visual interest
“The overall concept was to create a dwelling filled with affection, dedicated solely to love and exuding a tranquil ambience within the city,” recalls Reina Lu, founder of IDCandy.
“We also designed the house to function as a verdant sanctuary for this young family, designed to be sustainable, eco-friendly, and have a minimal environmental impact,” continues Shawn Lu, co-founder of IDCandy.
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Embracing sustainable living, the designers have maximised the internal space by removing walls and creating a continuous open area combining living, dining and kitchen.
The only “separation” is offered but a short series of steps leading up to the dining and kitchen.
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In line with creating a green home, the designers also looked for ways to utilise passive ventilation and natural daylight while preserving the home’s original form.
Read more: The best 10 green homes in Malaysia
To this end, the layout of the rooms revolves around a central air well strategically positioned to welcome radiant sunlight from the rooftop.
Not only does this invite nature into the home, but it suffuses both floors with natural light and enables good ventilation.
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At the heart of this air well stands a single tree, the house’s only green lung,
“This is where one can truly unwind, reclining on a side bench and taking a leisurely breath,” muses Lu.
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Above The tree rises to the second floor

Above Greenery softens the house
To further the designer’s green agenda, vent blocks were installed in the front and rear sections of the house to facilitate the influx of cool air, enhancing comfort and offering basic visual privacy.
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Throughout the home, a deliberately restrained palette was favoured.
White was predominantly used in all areas, punctuated by shades of grey, with natural materials such as wood being an intuitive match.
See also: Home tour: A grand Kuala Lumpur home anchored by marble

Above Well hung lighting

Above Dark wood is a handsome choice for the bathroom
In this carefully curated space, the couple’s dream of an individualistic, sustainable haven has materialised, proving that thoughtful design can transform a house into a cherished home.
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