Home tour: A luxurious renovation of a modern family haven in Subang, Malaysia

Nine Plus Interior Design transforms a weathered Subang house into a modern family haven

In the vibrant suburb of USJ Subang, Nine Plus Interior Design transformed a once-weathered house into a showcase for modern design and familial warmth. This five-year project, led by Sara Lim, managing director and founder of Nine Plus Interior Design, transformed a 70’ x 100’ plot into a 3,500 sq ft haven of contemporary living.

“The inspiration for this project was a blank sheet of paper,” Lim explains. “We had the opportunity to start afresh, not limited by basic construction layout. We could draw whatever we wanted, yet remain practical.”

Above The foyer is a study in balance between simplicity and texture

Above Built-in shelving with plants adds a touch of nature

The foyer is a study in balance between simplicity and texture

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The redesign houses a small family in a space that balances luxury with comfort. The residence boasts five bedrooms, six bathrooms, and an array of meticulously designed common areas, including a foyer, audio room, and wet and dry kitchens.

Lim’s team faced the challenge of creating a home that was both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional.

The living room has ample natural light pouring through sheer curtains

The open-concept living and dining area with a seamless blend of modern and natural elements.

Photo 1 of 3 The living room has ample natural light pouring through sheer curtains

Photo 2 of 3 A bonsai tree adds a touch of nature

Photo 3 of 3 The open-concept living and dining area with a seamless blend of modern and natural elements.

The living room has ample natural light pouring through sheer curtains

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“The client tasked us to ensure the new residence is familial and practical without compromising aesthetics,” Lim notes. “Our overarching design concept was to think out of the box while not forgetting details.”

The material choices reflect this balance. Warm wood elements exude cosiness, while marble accents incorporate luxury and elegance. “The stark contrast of both elements was only possible with the client’s trust,” Lim adds.

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Photo 1 of 2 The open plan living area

Photo 2 of 2 The living room has ample natural light pouring through sheer curtains

The open plan living area

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Perhaps the home's most striking feature is its emphasis on open space and natural light.

“Our favourite areas are the living area, dry kitchen, and dining area,” Lim shares. “These very airy and open areas create a sense of comfort. In modern city construction, space like high ceilings and wide areas is scarce.”

Above A modern kitchen island with wooden bar stools provides a sleek, minimalist touch

A modern kitchen island with wooden bar stools provides a sleek, minimalist touch

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The design team’s attention to detail is evident throughout the home. Brass elements add quiet luxury to the rooms, while a zen garden visible from the interior brings nature indoors.

Even practical elements, like a small marble bench at the entrance for putting on shoes, were carefully considered.

The limited colour palette is soothing to the eye

A closer view of the kitchen area, where the curved white pillars and wooden ceiling panels add visual interest.

The kitchen cabinetry follows the general theme

Photo 1 of 4 The open-concept living and dining area with a seamless blend of modern and natural elements.

Photo 2 of 4 The limited colour palette is soothing to the eye

Photo 3 of 4 A closer view of the kitchen area, where the curved white pillars and wooden ceiling panels add visual interest.

Photo 4 of 4 The kitchen cabinetry follows the general theme

The open-concept living and dining area with a seamless blend of modern and natural elements.

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Sustainability was also a key consideration. Solar panels adorn the roof, aligning with the company’s commitment to eco-friendly design.

“It’s part of our direction to always achieve sustainable design and outcome,” Lim explains. “Thankfully, the client was agreeable to this.”

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The calm aesthetic continues in the bedroom which features neutral tones anda platform bed

The serene bedroom with wooden flooring, white walls, and accented by a unique pendant light

The neutral color palette and wooden floors create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Photo 1 of 4 The calm aesthetic continues in the bedroom which features neutral tones anda platform bed

Photo 2 of 4 The serene bedroom with wooden flooring, white walls, and accented by a unique pendant light

Photo 3 of 4 The neutral color palette and wooden floors create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Photo 4 of 4 The serene bedroom with wooden flooring, white walls, and accented by a unique pendant light

The calm aesthetic continues in the bedroom which features neutral tones anda platform bed

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The project wasn’t without its challenges. Spanning the entire MCO period during the COVID-19 pandemic, it took five years to complete.

“There were moments of doubt within our team,” Lim admits. “We worried whether the client would stop the project abruptly due to prolonged build time.”

The luxurious walk-in closet features floor-to-ceiling wardrobes, illuminated shelving, and a central island with a glass top

An elegant dressing area within the walk-in closet

Photo 1 of 3 The luxurious walk-in closet features floor-to-ceiling wardrobes, illuminated shelving, and a central island with a glass top

Photo 2 of 3 An elegant dressing area within the walk-in closet

Photo 3 of 3 The sleek bathroom features clean lines

The luxurious walk-in closet features floor-to-ceiling wardrobes, illuminated shelving, and a central island with a glass top

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Despite these hurdles, the result is a triumph of design and perseverance. Large windows, especially in the stairwell, flood the space with natural light. The study area features darker tones, lending a sense of corporate seriousness. Strategically placed storage solutions throughout the home cater to the family’s daily needs.

“As per feedback from the client – they are happy and satisfied,” Lim concludes. “It is a dream home for them – aesthetically pleasing yet functional. That is the best outcome our team could want.”

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Modern Home Renovation Luxury Family Living Subang Interior Design Sustainable Home Open Concept Living Malaysian Architecture Pandemic Era Design Minimalist Luxury Smart Home Solutions Bespoke Interior Design

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