Cover Natural light gently illuminates the living area
Natural light gently illuminates the living area
1 / 1
Team 17's transformed a Kuala Lumpur townhouse with soft curves that encourage family interaction
Nestled within The Breezeway enclave in Desa Park City, Kuala Lumpur, the Courtyard Homes are modern townhouses set amongst lush surroundings. The townhouse in question is a three-storey corner lot spanning an impressive 4,000 sq ft and would be a multi-generational home with seven members in all.
In its original state, the unit had six bedrooms and six bathrooms, featuring two living areas. Team 17 was tasked with transforming the townhouse into a home that fit the family’s requirements precisely.
Read more: Home tour: A coastal retreat with perpetual views of the Baja California Sur
Above A view from above
Above The modern chandelier emphasises the soaring ceiling
A view from above
1 / 2
As part of the extensive renovation, a key modification included an extension to the master bedroom to facilitate the creation of an additional walk-in wardrobe space and a working area for the master. To cater to older family members, an internal home lift was installed to provide convenient access to the enhanced and personalised space.
From the first impression, the designers were impressed by the double-volume atrium. “During our site visit, we were drawn to the impressive void high ceiling and grand staircase. However, on the flip side, these distinctive features posed challenges as they occupied a significant amount of space,” states Patrick Goh, director of Team 17. “The client also expressed a desire to optimise the house by increasing storage space for daily use, addressing a key consideration in the project.”
See also: 5 magnificent multi-generational family homes in Malaysia
Natural light in the living spaces
1 / 3
The designers’ primary inspiration for the project was fostering connections and enhancing interactions between people and the space. “During the site measurement, we identified significant unused and wasted space in walkways,” recalls Goh.
“To optimise the functionality storage and advantages of the house, the introduction of curved walls emerged as a perfect solution. This addressed the spatial challenges but became a notable highlight in our final design.”
Don't miss: How celebrity designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard crafts glamorous homes
Above The high ceiling
Above An artpiece cum lighting
The high ceiling
1 / 2
Given the challenges of working with curved surfaces and the imperative of future maintenance, the designers opted for a special-effect texture paint crafted from natural stone as their primary material.
This was complemented by subtle elements such as classic wainscoting and accents of rose gold stainless steel, not to mention Bvlgari marble stone, to achieve the modern classic aesthetic the client desired.
Read more: Home tour: A dreamy holiday villa in the bucolic Sri Lankan countryside
An elegant light coloured palette
1 / 3
The original dining and living spaces were also positioned to ensure that natural light and the garden’s lush greenery would seamlessly accompany the living area.
“Recognising the living room as the central gathering space for the family, this adjustment aimed to enhance comfort and relaxation within the space,” muses Goh.
See also: Studio tour: An iconic Malaysian choreographer and dancer’s Balinese-inspired haven
The opening between dry kitchen and living
1 / 3
To emphasise the interactive relationship between humans and space, various rounded openings throughout different areas were designed to allow for visual connections from the entrance to the dry kitchen or the staircase walkway to the living space.
“This intentional design choice transforms daily activities into engaging experiences as people move around the space. The dynamic and interconnected layout encourages observers to envision different movements and actions from various angles, adding a layer of intrigue to the overall spatial experience,” explains Goh.
Don't miss: Where to stay: The most beautiful new hotels in Asia
The dry kitchen
1 / 4
Creating the curved wall was not without its challenges, although these turned out to be significant highlights. “The primary challenge involved the creation of the curved wall, which served not only to conceal an existing column at the centre of the house but also to function as a practical storage solution for the client. Striking the right balance was crucial to ensure the space felt spacious and comfortable despite the added elements,” recalls Goh.
Additionally, the termination of the newly added space posed another noteworthy challenge. However, these challenges were successfully addressed, resulting in a final outcome where the curved wall seamlessly integrates into the space while fulfilling its dual purpose of concealment and storage.
Read more: 4 natural wabi-sabi homes in Malaysia
The family area
1 / 4
One standout detail in the master bathroom was deliberately introduced as a captivating twist. In contrast to the predominantly embraced soft and warm colour tones in the rest of the house, the designers created a unique and distinct experience in the bathroom.
“Here, we extended the curved element by featuring dark mosaic tiles complemented by dark marble stone, meticulously crafting a curved wall,” states Goh. “This departure from the overall colour scheme not only fulfils the modern classic theme requested by the client but also establishes a distinctive and understated dark tone in the bathroom. The result is a unique and sophisticated experience that deviates from the warmth found in the rest of the home.”
Don't miss: 6 popular Ikea products and what makes them iconic
The master bedroom
1 / 5
As for the furniture selection, Goh speaks passionately about the studio's commitment to sourcing locally.
“We always strive to support local craftsmanship and provide furniture of excellent quality and design comparable to that of Italy. The majority of loose furniture, such as sofas and beds, has been meticulously crafted in Malaysia, showcasing the skill and artistry of local manufacturers,” he says.
Read more: 6 highly anticipated architectural projects set to complete in 2024
The master walk-in wardrobe was a significant addition
1 / 4
“Concerning decorative lighting, a combination of imported pieces and those purchased from local retail shops has been incorporated into the design. This approach not only allows us to showcase the talent and expertise of local artisans but also ensures a diverse and unique collection of furnishings that contribute to the overall aesthetic of the space.”
See also: Home tour: An award winning six-storey Kuala Lumpur home integrated with nature
The master bathroom has a darker palette
1 / 3
With the family now firmly installed in the home, Goh reports that the clients are thrilled with the transformation. “They conveyed their delight, stating that they could not have imagined the original house being transformed to the extent that we accomplished,” he enthuses.
“Furthermore, upon witnessing the completed project, even a previous potential buyer from the neighbourhood expressed amazement and regret for not having the opportunity to purchase the house with the remarkable transformations we implemented. Such positive reactions have filled our clients with a sense of pride and happiness.”
NOW READ
Home tour: A compact Kuala Lumpur penthouse with mid-century aesthetics
Unearthing the charm of Seoul’s architecture with Korean architect Byoung Cho
Home tour: Kourtney Kardashian’s modern Mediterranean sanctuary in Southern California
Credits
Photography: Pixelaw Photography
Best of Tatler Asia video highlights
Featured videos from around Tatler Asia: Get exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the interviews we do, the events we attend, the shoots we produce, and the incredibly important people who are part of our community
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.
