ANN/THE STAR – A fresh coat of paint, updated accessories, smart additions, and architectural enhancements can transform dull facades into stunning masterpieces, as demonstrated by this recently renovated 20-year-old home.
Situated in a Kuala Lumpur suburb in Malaysia, the two-and-a-half-storey house underwent nearly a year and a half of renovations during the pandemic lockdown.
The goal was to create a bright, airy, and comfortable living space with a modern farmhouse aesthetic.
For the husband-and-wife team behind Framework Studio, this project was right in their creative wheelhouse.
“We love designing beautiful interiors, and our focus is on transforming older houses into ideal homes,” said creative director of Framework Studio Joanne Low.
The home’s concept was the result of close collaboration between Low and the homeowner.
“We constantly exchanged ideas and refined the design until we achieved the final vision for this home,” she shared.
This made the renovation process both enjoyable and challenging.
“We set high standards to ensure perfection, which added some difficulty,” Low explained.
“When we first saw the house, it looked dated, with a small kitchen and an attic that lacked a balcony. The challenge was working around the existing layout while fulfilling the homeowner’s requests.”
The finished home embraces a modern eclectic style, shaped by the homeowner’s preferences and close collaboration with the design team.
Low has a few favourite areas in the house.
“We created a cosy nook in the kitchen where the homeowners can enjoy coffee while basking in natural light from the skylight we added at the corner. “This aligns with their vision of a spacious kitchen with a rustic farmhouse touch. We removed a column and replaced it with beams to make space for a little nook behind the glass canopy.”
Another standout feature is the transformed attic.
“We introduced new industrial stairs to make the attic more functional, turning it into a family area with a television and a full-height open shelf for books and collectibles – creating the perfect reading space,” Low added.
Originally a small mezzanine with wooden flooring, the attic was demolished and rebuilt with a concrete base. Thoughtful design choices and the homeowner’s cherished collections turned it into a serene retreat for the young residents.
To enhance functionality, Low also designed a balcony connected to the family area, providing space for barbecues or simply enjoying the sunset.
For those looking to create their dream home, Low advises being clear on goals, balancing aspirations with reality, and staying firm in achieving the desired outcome. – Rina Ahmad Sapiuddin
