Home tour: A chic villa in the heart of Kuala Lumpur

Wayne Factor’s chic villa in the heart of Kuala Lumpur is an exercise in refined design

The U-Thant area, just a stone’s throw from the Petronas Twin Towers, is historically one of Kuala Lumpur’s most exclusive neighbourhoods. Set amongst mature trees and adjacent to the embassy belt, this is the postcode of old money, high-flying expatriate families and foreign diplomatic staff.

New developments here are appropriately low-density and private, and 388 U-Thant is no different. This boutique development boasts a dozen four-storey villas designed by a renowned local architect, a private enclave for a very privileged few.

Above The beautifully detailed villa facade

Above Double-volume living area

For Wayne Yap of Wayne Factor, designing a unit in this development unfolded effortlessly, as if he were in a state of creative flow.

“Blessed with the owner’s unwavering commitment to tasteful design, the house was conceived to showcase the art of refined living,” he muses.

Above The elegant outdoor area

From the outset, the client conveyed to Yap that they recognised a shared vision and a mutual appreciation for aesthetics.

“We trust you to elevate our living environment,” they expressed confidently.

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Photo 1 of 2 Low slung sofas look welcoming

Photo 2 of 2 The living room has a view of greenery

Armed with this mandate, Yap went about conceptualising a home that would encapsulate the clients’ sophisticated tastes while being a sanctuary they would look forward to returning to.

Above Textural contrasts

Above The designer was restrained in their additions

“Nestled in the heart of the bustling urban city, with a relentless pace of careers in everyday life, we wanted to create an abode that represented an oasis of tranquillity for the family,” explains Yap.

Photo 1 of 3 The dining area

Photo 2 of 3 The dining area

Photo 3 of 3 The dining area

To this end, soft neutral tones and warm ambient lighting envelop every space of the house, cultivating a haven of relaxation.

Eschewing the conventional tendency to add on cabinetry, Yao instead emphasised loose furniture transcending traditional built-ins. Thus allowing the envelope to breathe while simultaneously creating a feeling of spaciousness and lightness.

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Photo 1 of 3 The dry kitchen

Photo 2 of 3 A sculptural light

Photo 3 of 3 Simple lines

Every piece of furniture was meticulously chosen to evoke an aura of refined comfort, resulting in a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetics.

The colour palette was also deliberately limited to neutral tones with an emphasis on texture to create interest.

Photo 1 of 4 Natural light in the bedroom

Photo 2 of 4 A quiet nook for work

Photo 3 of 4 Neat built-ins

Photo 4 of 4 Sleek lighting

The results are a chic, sleek ode to quiet luxury. Yap sums it up best: “This home is a retreat from urban hustle, a refuge where the family can unwind, recharge, and savour moments of quiet amidst the city’s ceaseless rhythm. In this home, tranquillity isn’t a luxury; it is a way of life.”

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Credits

Photography

Pixelaw Photography and Vesthetik

Topics

Home Tour Jalan U-Thant Tropical Villa Tropical Modern Malaysian Architecture Malaysian Interior Design Design Inspo

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