Cover The pale colours give the space a luxurious feel
The pale colours give the space a luxurious feel
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Step inside a beautifully renovated colonial-style terrace house in Penang, reimagined by the Nevermore Group
In the prestigious gated community of Ariza within Penang’s Straits Quay, Nevermore Group has renovated a terrace house that now exemplifies timeless luxury and thoughtful design.
Originally a colonial-style home built by E&O, the property has been transformed into a 2,500 sq ft haven by Say Win Chuah, interior designer and co-founder of the award-winning studio, into a dream home for himself and his wife.
This renovation seamlessly blends colonial heritage with modern sophistication, creating a unique living space that honours Penang’s rich architectural history while embracing contemporary comfort.
Above The living, dining areas and kitchen are one combined space, allowing for easy interaction with guests.
The living, dining areas and kitchen are one combined space, allowing for easy interaction with guests.
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“We have always admired the colonial-style homes built by E&O, the developer of this estate. As native Penangites who cherish our heritage, we were immediately captivated by the house’s exterior and façade, which beautifully reflect our cultural roots,” Chuah explains, revealing his connection to the property’s history and location.
See also: Ultimate Malaysian Home Tours guide: 7 stunning homes in Penang
Above The pale colours give the space a luxurious feel
Above Classical details
The pale colours give the space a luxurious feel
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As you step inside, the home’s understated opulence is immediately evident. Classic wainscoting panels adorned with gold trim line the walls, creating a subtle yet sophisticated backdrop for the cream palette.
“We aimed for a luxurious yet understated and timeless design that harmonises elegance with practicality,” says Chuah.
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Meticulous detailing add a polish to the living room
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The heart of the home is undoubtedly the open-concept common area. Here, the kitchen seamlessly blends with the living and dining spaces, featuring a multifunctional island counter that serves as both a practical workspace and a stylish bar for entertaining.
“This space allows for easy interaction with guests, and is perfect for breakfast and cocktails,” Chuah notes.
Read more: Explore three distinctive heritage properties in Penang, Selangor and Melaka, Malaysia
Above The dining area has a decorative lighting fixture resembling a strand of pearls
The dining area has a decorative lighting fixture resembling a strand of pearls
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Thanks to strategic design choices, natural light floods the interior. Full-height windows in the living area and a glass block wall at the front of the house maximise brightness and ventilation—a clever solution to the typical constraints of terrace house living.
This emphasis on natural elements not only enhances the ambience but also contributes to the home's energy efficiency.
See also: How Lego sets are reimagining home decor with nostalgic designs
The open-concept kitchen, which serves as a pantry, features a multifunctional island counter with a wash basin, induction cooker, and bar area
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One of the most striking features is the curved TV wall in the living room. Positioned next to a full-height window, it creates a mesmerising play of light throughout the day.
“It captures daylight beautifully, creating a stunning gradient of golden reflections,” Chuah explains with pride.
Don’t miss: 14 terrace houses in Malaysia with amazing renovations
The master bathroom has a darker colour and material palette
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The renovation expanded the original structure to include four bedrooms, each a private retreat within this urban oasis.
Throughout the home, carefully sourced materials add to the luxurious feel. Italian marble and sintered stone provide elegant surfaces, while ceiling and wall beading decorations offer intricate visual interest.
Read more: Home tour: A grand Kuala Lumpur home anchored by marble
Above The master bathroom has a darker colour and material palette
Above Gold trim was added in the bathroom
The master bathroom has a darker colour and material palette
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“We absolutely adore our new home and proudly consider it our dream residence,” Chuah muses.
“The journey of exploring possibilities and creating this space together was a delightful experience for us as a couple.”
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Photography: Xi J
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Jennifer Choo is Regional Managing Editor of Tatler Homes, covering architecture, interior design, and art across Asia. Based in Malaysia, she oversees regional content on luxury residential design and contemporary art collections. Legally trained but choosing to pursue her passion for design, she previously led notable design publications and worked as an interior stylist and art consultant for property developers, design firms, and private clients.
