Cover This wabi-sabi inspired home features an open-plan living and dining area with a neutral colour palette, marble accents, and modern lighting
This wabi-sabi inspired home features an open-plan living and dining area with a neutral colour palette, marble accents, and modern lighting
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Nevermore Group have transformed a modern bungalow in Padang Besar, Malaysia into a a serene wabi-sabi haven
In the serene town of Padang Besar, Perlis, a couple in their mid-30s with their young child, has found a haven in their newly renovated three-story bungalow. Nestled on a 6,850 square-foot lot boasting a total built up of 7850 sq ft, the spacious home has six bedrooms, each with en suite bathrooms, a multi-purpose room, and a family lounge.
What was once a brand-new but unfinished purchase from a local developer has been deftly transformed by Chuah Say Yang, Nevermore Group’s creative director and co-founder, into a harmonious blend of modern and traditional elements inspired by the Japanese aesthetic philosophy of wabi-sabi.
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Minimalist living room with large TV, marble coffee tables, and cream-colored armchair.
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Chuah, a close friend of the homeowner, Harry, from their school days at Sri Inai Secondary School in Penang, was the natural choice for this ambitious project.
“I knew I had to take up the project when Harry called, as this will be the home he’s been planning and talking about for quite some time,” Chuah reflects. The high ceilings and the abundance of natural light pouring through the windows were key elements that drew him to the space.
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Above Double-height living room with sculptural light fixture, textured walls, and minimalist decor
Above Double-height living room with sculptural light fixture, textured walls, and minimalist decor
Double-height living room with sculptural light fixture, textured walls, and minimalist decor
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The design journey began with a clear vision: to create a modern wabi-sabi interior that embraces imperfection, simplicity, and the beauty of natural materials.
This aesthetic guided the choice of materials and finishes throughout the home.
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The sintered stone was applied in various forms including the dining table top
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A single type of sintered stone with a travertine-inspired finish was introduced in common areas, including the TV console, dining table top, kitchen island, and kitchen worktop.
This versatile material, only 6mm thick, was chosen for its durability, water-proofing, and chemical resistance. It can be applied to floors, tabletops, and walls.
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A large curtain wall was added to the dry kitchen to enhance natural light penetration
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Texture paint played a crucial role in bringing the wabi-sabi philosophy to life. Chuah explains, “Texture paint can be an excellent way to introduce elements of wabi-sabi into interior design. We chose textures that mimic natural materials like stone, clay, or plaster and embraced the imperfections inherent in texture painting.”
The result is a space where subtle, earthy colours and layered textures create a visually intriguing and serene environment.
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The wet kitchen is neatly realised in a darker palette
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Sustainability was also a key consideration in the design process.
The existing structure and window openings were preserved, and a large curtain wall was added to the dry kitchen to enhance natural light penetration. “We are very satisfied with the outcome as the client gave us total freedom and trust in the project,” Chuah notes.
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Every room was meticulously detailed
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The furniture and decorative items were sourced with equal care. Pieces from Timeless Design in Penang and décor items from Crate & Barrel in Singapore complement the wabi-sabi-inspired space.
The result is a home that feels timeless and imbued with the beauty of imperfection.
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Natural light filters into the serene master bedroom
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Despite the logistical challenges posed by the bungalow’s location in Padang Besar with Chuah based in Penang, which required meticulous pre-planning and selection of materials and talents, the project was a resounding success.
Chuah’s favourite features include the travertine sintered stone in the dry kitchen and the double-volume TV feature wall with a texture paint finish.
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Above A quiet spot for work
Above The walk-in wardrobe is enviably spacious and elegantly fitted out
A quiet spot for work
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As the couple prepares to move into their beautifully transformed home, they are delighted with the outcome. Chuah shares, “I’m glad that both clients are pleased with the outcome; they can't wait to move in.”
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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.
