Cover The interior of this home designed by Seshan Design maximises space and light
The interior of this home designed by Seshan Design maximises space and light
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Seshan Design breathes new life into suburban Kuala Lumpur home, maximising space and light
Located in the vibrant Desa Park City township, Kuala Lumpur, this end-lot unit was part of The Mansions, a FIABCI award-winning high-end strata terraced house enclave.
The house had some issues due to its orientation, but Seshan Design, a local firm known for its innovative residential projects, transformed it from a dark, damp space into a bright, airy sanctuary.
Ramesh Seshan, founder of Seshan Design, recalls his first impression of the property: “It was facing a huge retaining wall and slope, with water pouring down when it rained. But we saw potential in the unused side land that belonged to the unit.”
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Above The frontage
Above The renovation transformed the entrance
The frontage
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The transformation began with a bold move—relocating the massive central staircase that dominated the entrance.
“That was the first thing that needed to go,” Seshan explains. “We moved the stairs to open up the entire ground floor and mezzanine.”
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Above An elegant modern living area with seamless indoor-outdoor integration, featuring comfortable seating, lush greenery, and abundant natural light
An elegant modern living area with seamless indoor-outdoor integration, featuring comfortable seating, lush greenery, and abundant natural light
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This decision set the tone for the entire renovation. Walls were torn down, and expansive sliding glass doors were installed, creating a seamless flow between the indoor living area and a new side terrace.
“We opened up the entire stretch of walls on the right to visually enlarge the living area and provide a green backdrop,” Seshan says.
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Above Natural light fills the living spaces
Natural light fills the living spaces
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To combat the damp conditions, the design team hardscaped the side strip and added a glass roof with mosquito netting.
“It allows the space to be used without being bugged by mosquitoes,” Seshan notes, though he adds with a chuckle, “The trade-off is weekly gutter cleaning to prevent clogging.”
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Above Elegant modern living area with seamless indoor-outdoor integration, featuring comfortable seating, lush greenery, and abundant natural light
Above High ceilings promote natural ventilation
Elegant modern living area with seamless indoor-outdoor integration, featuring comfortable seating, lush greenery, and abundant natural light
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The home’s material palette reflects the clients’ desire for minimalism with character. White insitu terrazzo floors gleam throughout the ground level, extending to the terrace for a cohesive look.
“We actually started with grey terrazzo,” Seshan reveals, “But inconsistencies led us to switch to white. It turned out to be a happy accident, giving the space a bright, inviting feel.”
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A glass enclosure allows views from the dining area
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Upstairs, engineered white oak flooring adds warmth, while ceilings in the double-height spaces and master bedroom feature a subtle pink-tinged textured paint.
The bathrooms showcase a playful mix of terrazzo, mosaic tiles, and brass inlays, with the master bath centred around a stunning Claybrook bathtub beneath a skylight. “The bathtub was a feat in itself,” Seshan laughs. “It took ten workers to carry it up the stairs!”
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Above Greenery abounds
Above The home has a close relationship with nature
Greenery abounds
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The kitchen, once confined, now opens to the living area as a lifestyle space.
“We brought the dry kitchen out, creating a hub that engages directly with the living area,” Seshan explains. This reconfiguration allowed for a proper family room and study on the mezzanine level.
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Open plan living suits this young family
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Throughout the home, thoughtful details abound. Smart switches, automated blinds, and a massive Airegard HVLS fan in the double-volume space provide modern convenience.
“That fan is our signature solution for large spaces,” Seshan notes. “It creates a comfortable, airy environment without constant air conditioning.”
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Above Spaces were rearranged for best flow
Above Natural light pierces through the different levels
Spaces were rearranged for best flow
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The renovation’s success lies not just in its aesthetics but also in its functionality for a young family with a toddler and a toy poodle.
“The idea was to revamp the place to make it liveable and cater to a growing family,” Seshan explains. Kid-friendly spaces and ample play areas were key considerations in the design.
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Above Light materials are showcased in the bedrooms
Above The master wardrobe has a different feel with woven rattan infill panels for the doors
Light materials are showcased in the bedrooms
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Perhaps the most striking feature is the home's emphasis on natural light and ventilation.
New windows and doors incorporate adjustable louvre components, while skylight elements were upgraded with operable panels. “Natural cross ventilation and plenty of natural light were key priorities,” Seshan emphasises.
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The Claybrook tub needed 10 workers to carry up the stairs
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As Seshan reflects on the completed project, his satisfaction is evident. “The living space is amazing—so inviting,” he beams. “It’s become a showcase for what can be achieved with good space planning and material selection.”
For the young family who calls this space home, the transformation has been nothing short of remarkable. What was once a dark, uninspiring unit is now a bright, open sanctuary—truly “the one” they were seeking.
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Credits
Photography: Rupajiwa Studio
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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.
