De Gallery

Merit, Residential Category | BCI Asia Interior Design Awards 2018

Within the constraints of the second storey of a shophouse, a trendy boutique guesthouse is birthed. The unassuming 1,525-square-foot space has been ingeniously revamped with clever space and functionality planning at the design stage.

By accentuating spatial quality rather than dimensions, the designers take on the challenge of redefining the area and creating a more effective and organised use of space. For example, the dining room is substituted with a more flexible bar counter.

Convertible partition walls, designed as distinctive barn doors, also help deliver a more versatile living environment. When closed, they serve as partitions for a smaller guest room. When opened, they create an inviting communal space, that doubles up as a living room theatre during movie nights.

Based on a rustic industrial concept, a curated selection of raw bricks, wood materials, iron and brass pieces carry the tastefully rugged look throughout the guesthouse.

The cement flooring is intentionally maintained in its original condition without further polishing, while the ceiling displays exposed bars and track lights. Indirect lighting effects and a contrasting furniture colour scheme create a dramatic and distinctive ambience.

For a sense of cohesiveness, hanging iron-and-wood cabinetry runs through the entire space, elongating the overall spatial experience. The raw iron pieces add a sense of contemporary timelessness and elegance against the otherwise gritty feel. A streamlined sleek metal door opens up to the master bedroom, which is bathed in warmer ambient lighting and darker colour tones for a tranquil and serene setting.

PROJECT DATA
Project Name: De Gallery
Location: Johor Bahru, Malaysia
Completion Date: 1 September 2017
Gross Floor Area: 141.67 square metres
Client/Owner: DAA Design Associates Sdn Bhd
Interior Design Firm: DAA Design Associates Sdn Bhd
Principal Designers: Chow Jie Yang; Tiu Kim Chuan
Images: DAA Design Associates Sdn Bhd