06 MARCH 2019 WEDNESDAY
Industry experts share their thoughts on what’s hot and what’s not for home design. See stories on pages 3 & 12
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
FEATURED DEVELOPMENT
FEATURED DEVELOPMENT
EXPERT SHARING
S P SETIA'S HOLISTIC APPROACH TO DEVELOPMENT P 04
SAFETY IS KEY AT LBS ALAM PERDANA TOWNSHIP P 08
LOCATION ALONE IS NOT ENOUGH WHEN INVESTING IN REAL ESTATE P 10
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E vent highlights
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Editorial Contributing Editor DAVID YEOH Acting Head of Content tharmini kenas tharmini@thestar.com.my Content NG PAU LING VIKTOR CHONG HAKIM HASSAN Video Producer ALAN KHAW alankhaw@thestar.com.my Designers KWONG CHEE OON QUEENY YONG NURUL AIDA TAJUDIN
MARKETING & SALEs Head of Customer Engagement & Support Ivy Leong 03 7967 1347 ivyleong@thestar.com.my Marketing Manager Faye Tan fayetan@thestar.com.my
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DIY DESIGN AT YOUR OWN RISK
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Although designing for the masses may seem dauntESIGN is often seen as something ethereal and highly subjective, therefore personal tastes and preferences ing, there are some guidelines which, on hindsight, are By weigh heavy on what works well. So, what does it common sense. Lifestyle plays a big part on how an item Ernest Towle mean when a product or space is designed well? is designed and used. By understanding the lifestyle of the Or when the design lives up to its intended use? audience, the designer can generally create designs which When asked if something was designed well, I found appeal to those individuals who desire that way of life. it difficult for the longest time to describe my feelings. It was Above all, the design must be functional and evoke an emotion. simply whether the space or item “flowed”. As a consumer, I was merely Imagine a home filled with fine china and a four-year-old with a soccer looking at aesthetics through my five senses. ball looking for a goalpost or a well-polished marble bathroom floor and At a recent walkabout at a public space with several interior design an elderly person with weak legs trying to use the WC. experts, I had the opportunity to experience design through the eyes of Design without considering utility and vice versa is a recipe for professionals from a “form versus function” perspective. They taught disaster. So if you are planning to DIY (design it yourself), one expert me to consider the workmanship and what went into crafting the suggests you and your partner start by filling a scrap book of all the relproduct. evant designs you come across for at least six months. Review the book At the end of the tour, I was pleasantly surprised to learn that design regularly to shortlist the designs you truly love. was more than just the initial impression. You had to follow through Your designer will then add insights on how to meet your from planning to execution in order to substantiate its quality. Items like requirements. Picking a wrong design will be expensive to correct, let material cost, durability, maintenance, as well as handiwork and pride alone undertake. This is where you must heed the old carpenter’s adage: all go towards the sensory delivery of the design. Measure twice, cut once.
StarProperty.my Event Highlights Enjoy the Best@Old Klang Road
Jom Beli & Menang contest
In this edition of the Best@ series, StarProperty.my highlights the charms of Old Klang Road, the first major road in the Klang Valley connecting the nation’s capital Kuala Lumpur to Klang, the former capital of Selangor. Old Klang Road has progressed from a sleepy stretch of road to one of the most sought-after locations in the valley, with many new developments mushrooming along both sides of the road. This illustrious area is so much more than the sum of its concrete structures; it is given life by the people who live and work there, by its famed restaurants, and by the manicured landscapes that adorn the roadside. Get your e-copy at https://best.starproperty.my/ old-klang-road/
StarProperty. my is back with a contest that will reward you with great prizes. You could be the one driving your family to your new home in a new car. When you purchase your property at one of our fairs (happening at the Starling Mall and various other shopping centres between February and November 2019), sign an SPA and join the contest. All you really have to do is visit our fairs (keep tabs on our Facebook page for announcements), pre-register for the “Beli & Menang” contest, submit a booking for one of the showcased properties offered by participating developers, answer a question, submit a slogan, and provide us with proof of purchase in the form of a Sale and Purchase Agreement (the SPA or S&P) – and you could be the lucky winner of the grand prize!
StarProperty.my Forum 2019 In the upcoming StarProperty.my Forum 2019 on March 9, titled Why Rent When You Can Own With Less Than RM400k, FAR Capital Sdn Bhd CEO Faizul Ridzuan will discuss why it’s better to buy than to rent in today’s housing market. Property speaker and best-selling author Ridzuan believes that home ownership affordability is more relevant to the buyer’s financial awareness rather than salary level. The forum will be from 2pm to 4pm at Antara Residence Sales Gallery, Jalan P5/7, Presint 5, 62000 Putrajaya, Wilayah Persekutuan Putrajaya. Admission is free. Register at: http://bit.ly/ spforum2019
Latest happenings
Groundbreaking ceremony for IBN Bukit Bintang IBN Bukit Bintang, a property development project initiated by the partnership between IBN Corp Ltd and KKH Pavilion Development Sdn Bhd, is a mixuse development comprising luxurious residential units and a hotel. The recent groundbreaking ceremony was attended by Shenzhen ZRPZ Group chairman Chen Guohui, IBN Corp Ltd executive director Datuk Seri Michael Yang and KKH Pavilion Development Sdn Bhd managing director Datuk Seri Kok Kuan Hwa. According to Chen, the development of IBN Bukit Bintang is in tandem with economic globalisation and fast-growing economies of countries in South-East Asia, particularly Malaysia.
Berjaya Land launches The Tropika residence
PCON addresses the future of real estate
Berjaya Golf Resort Bhd recently launched its latest residential development called The Tropika@Bukit Jalil. Sitting on 6.5 acres of freehold land, The Tropika is a gated and guarded residential project offering 868 units across four towers. Residents will get to enjoy urban lifestyle activities in a tranquil environment with facilities that include an infinity swimming pool, indoor and outdoor gyms, Zen garden, rock-climbing wall, camping grounds and e-charging station. “The Tropika is crafted to provide residents with a home that incorporates the elements of an urban lifestyle and the lush greenery of nature, so they will experience the best of both worlds,” said Berjaya Land Bhd chief executive officer Datuk Pee Kang Seng.
The recently-held Property Conference 2019 at the Quill Convention Centre focused on the “Fourth Industrial Revolution: The Impact on Property Market”.Some of the subjects addressed include virtual reality, smart home technology, artificial intelligence, Big Data and Blockchain – and how they impact the property market, business entities, investors, house buyers and stakeholders. A joint collaboration between Wealth Wolves and BiGE, the property conference assembled a lineup of experts in the region to share their knowledge and experiences.The speakers included Fourth Industrial Revolution Structural Transformation (FIRST) president Aaron Ting, Juwai.com chairman Georg Chmiel, Alpha REIT Managers Sdn Bhd chairman Datuk George Stewart Labrooy, Mahzan Sulaiman founder Mahathir Mahzan and Wealth Dragon Ltd chairman Vincent Wong.
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Keeping TRACK of DÉCOR TRENDS Industry experts share their observations on what’s hot and what’s not for interior design
By Ng Pau Ling pauline@thestar.com.my
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NTERIOR decor trends come and go. The changes in design details and elements bring forth a new mood and reflect current sentiments. For house-proud folks looking for interior decorating tips, StarProperty. my has invited home and living tastemakers from interior design, lifestyle furniture, and architecture industries to share their thoughts on what’s on fire and what’s losing lustre.
IN > Matte finish Restrained and understated Glossy and shiny finishes are on their way out. The subtle matte finish that absorbs light with minimal reflection has become the sophisticated alternative. “The shining, sparkling high-polished finish was once the symbol of antiquity and luxury. However, people now embrace a moderate, gentle and thoughtful lifestyle that has led to the matte finish being trendy when creating depth and restrained ambience,” said Ooi. Whether you’re picking out floor tiles, stone tabletop, kitchen backsplash, wardrobe handles or new wall shades, the not overly showy matte finish is the right way to go. “Apart from the interior design world, the matte finish is also trendy with cosmetics, luxury watches and cars,” added Ooi
INTERIOR DESIGNER Source: Banlan
IN > Bold statement furniture Fearless and daring
IN > Bespoke style It reveals who you are
Ooi Boon Seong Ooi Design & Associates Sdn Bhd chief executive director “People have started to appreciate fine detail and uniqueness. In short, they want to own a home that is Instagram-worthy -- with scenes that are good enough to be posted.”
Crafted and bespoke design is the direction as we move into an era that appreciates fine detail and perfect-fit features. The bespoke design is made from scratch to fit the owner's specifications. It combines different elements and materials, with the ultimate goal of creating a space that reflects the characteristics and lifestyle preferences of the dweller. “We not only design from the interior perspective but also study the personality of the home owner -- the dressing and artwork they love, their hobbies, and even their beliefs,” said Ooi. “It inspires a bespoke design that is tailored to fit what they like and make them feel perfectly comfortable to live in that space,” he said.
Bold and strong palettes such as bright red, royal blue, green and yellow are bringing a vivacious cheer to the interior space in 2019. “For example, arrange a set of bright red sofa at the centre of your living room as the focal point of your home,” said Ooi. Previously, these bold palettes generally appeared on small pieces of furniture to add to the atmosphere or painted on the wall as the background of the home. This year, the intense colours will be seen in the significant furniture piece such as a sofa to make a striking aesthetic statement. “After the changes experienced over the past few years, people are longing for a more cheerful atmosphere in 2019,” said Ooi. “Bold colours have come on time to boost the mood and increase energy levels. Even for walls, we are inclined to use dark and strong colours such as dark green.”
Source: Furnipart
IN > Black with texture Details matter In the sanitary or bathroom fitting
Source: Banlan
IN > Modern Chinese furniture A mix of old and new Original Chinse designer furniture has extended its influence to the local design market, and it deserves attention. “Apart from the familiar brands from Europe, the Chinese furniture brands are emerging to offer more options for home designing,” said Ooi. The new generation of Chinese designers has combined the deep
cultural heritage of China and contemporary aesthetics to reach new heights in modern living. Banlan, for instance, is one of the high-end furniture brands in China that meets world-class standards. Established in 2009, the company covers research and development to manufacturing and sales. The products are not designed for mass production but focus on craftsmanship to transform the authentic designs into reality. “They redefine the ‘made in China’ quality,” said Ooi.
design for items such as tap handle, showerhead and towel rail, black with texture is making its mark this year. “Black never goes out of date. It can be simple in form and shape, but attention should be given to the detail and texture of the material to let the decor shine,” said Ooi. Some of the fittings are still in shiny steel but the focus has shifted to hairline finish rather than a polished finish.
OUT > Rose gold Rose gold has faded out, slowly but surely. If you want to add a touch of glamour to space, matte gold with rustic and vintage feel is the in thing. “You can apply it on the trimmings as a supplementary ornament rather than putting this metallic accent in a junk piece,” said Ooi.
OUT > Flora curtain The ready-made graffiti and flora print curtain (even the relatively nice ones) can instantly make any home feel outdated. “Get rid of unnecessary decoration and focus functionality,” said Ooi. “Most of our clients now prefer to have plain, minimalist curtain.” No more lace and complicated graphics. Focus on the texture and weaving pattern of the fabric. Continued on page 12 >
F eatured Development
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Successful ventures into the international market, such as the Battersea Power Station in London, shows S P Setia's determination and ambition.
HOLISTIC APPROACH TO DEVELOPMENT
S P Setia crafts inspired projects that promote a harmonious lifestyle
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Parks, lakes and lush greenery comprise 20% of the built-up area in Setia Eco Park located in Setia Alam.
EW people, be they seasoned real estate pundits or the average Malaysian, have not heard of S P Setia. The awardwinning property developer was incorporated in 1974 and has since risen to prominence as a market leader and corporate giant in the building sector. S P Setia believes in a holistic approach to development as underlined by its tagline of “Live, Learn, Work, Play”. In an era where customer experience has become increasingly important, the company strives to keep up with the times and has moulded its housing schemes to project a harmonious lifestyle that resonates with every strata of society.
With the tagline 'A world class city within a city', KL Eco City integrates residential, leisure and business needs of residents.
Its developments are built in strategic locations with access to amenities and have a connection with nature.
New vision, new slogan
Prominent projects in the valley
“Stay Together, Stay Setia” is a newlycrafted slogan that expresses the very soul of the company – its 2,300 employees known as Team Setia. They are often the ultimate advocates for the brand and are the unsung heroes of the company. The slogan aims to inculcate a sense of togetherness and encourage collaboration among S P Setia employees towards a more momentous undertaking. The word setia, Malay for faithful, illustrates S P Setia’s longevity as a trailblazer in the property market. S P Setia recognises that it is only with togetherness that the company has been able to journey this far. S P Setia now seeks to go even further and venture into international property markets. As an example of its determination and ambition in this initiative, S P Setia (along with partners Sime Darby and EPF) outbid Chelsea FC in acquiring the Battersea Power Station to develop the iconic site into a new riverside community for London consisting of offices, shops, restaurants, event space and residential apartments. Other international projects include Eco Lakes in Vietnam, EcoXuan in Vietnam, Sapphire By The Gardens in Australia, Daintree Residence in Singapore and China-Malaysia Qinzhou Industrial Park in China.
S P Setia’s top developments in Klang Valley include Setia Alam, Setia Eco Park, KL Eco City, Alam Impian and Bandar Kinrara. Setia Alam, home to S P Setia’s corporate headquarters and perhaps its most prominent project to date, is a township in Shah Alam that boasts a strategic location and plentiful amenities. Residents enjoy the convenience of nearby shops for food or groceries as well as a mall and convention centre. Setia Eco Park, as the name suggests, is S P Setia’s approach to sustainable development. Parks, lakes and lush greenery comprise 20% of the built-up area. In its effort to go green, S P Setia did not sacrifice building in a prime location – Setia Eco Park is a mere 20-minute drive from Kuala Lumpur. Smack in the middle of the development is S P Setia’s KL Eco City, a synergy hub that combines sustainability, luxury and convenience. Public transportation is of little concern as the Abdullah Hukum LRT and KTM commuter stations are within walking distance.
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A dvertorial
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ACMAR BRINGS WYNDHAM TO MALAYSIA
International chain to manage five-star Acmar Klang Hotel and the premium D’Rapport Residences in Kuala Lumpur
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Opulent spaces showcase grandeur and excellence.
he Acmar Group, which has built its reputation in developing the integrated township of Klang, is expanding its presence in the luxury and hospitality sector, with the scheduled opening of Wyndham Acmar Hotel, Klang in the third quarter and the completion of D’Rapport Residences at the end of the year. Wyndham Hotel & Resorts is the world’s largest hotel franchisor and leading provider of hotel management services. With around 9000 properties worldwide, their expertise in property management excellence is unsurpassed. The appointment of Wyndham Hotel & Resorts as the management of these two iconic projects will ensure delivery of world class service standards to residents and guests of D’Rapport Residences and Wyndham Acmar Hotel, Klang respectively. Wyndham Acmar Hotel, Klang offers contemporary accommodation and fundamental conveniences. The hotel has 300 rooms and 188 residences that are modern and fully equipped as well as a wide selection of food and beverage options located in various parts of the hotel. The hotel will be the choice for conventions and events in the Royal Town of Klang with 8 meeting rooms and a Grand Ballroom that fits up to 1500 people. Other than that, the hotel provides facilities like large service lifts that can even fit a car and the most up-to-date audiovisual equipment to host meetings, conferences and exhibitions. For those who would like to enjoy food while relaxing, the Sky Restaurant and Lounge on the 23rd floor with a panoramic view of Klang provides the ambience that is most comfortable and prestigious. Food and beverages and other conveniences like the lobby lounge, Chinese restaurant, Japanese fusion restaurant, swimming pool, spa, gymnasium and a fully-equipped children’s club will meet guests’ expectations. Wyndham Acmar Hotel, Klang is a place that is suitable for business, conference, weddings and receptions in the Klang or Shah Alam area. Guests will have everything they need to host a successful event catered by a professional service team who would provide impeccable services that will ensure you a memorable experience. For more information, please visit www.acmar.com
The Wyndham Acmar Klang Hotel will stand out as the only five-star establishment in the Klang municipality.
Aesthetically designed spaces in Acmar Hotel.
Acmar Group's 40-year experience in the industry is clearly reflected in the excellence of Acmar Klang Hotel.
View from above of one of the classic-design residen
D’Rapport Residences is a low density luxur 1,099units of apartment on 9.12acres land. The 5 towers, each standing at 38-storey with 6 unit floor. Unique for a city-center development, D’Rap pride in its 50 different types of indoor and outd over an extensive 288,000 sq. ft. On the podium basic facilities like tennis court, swimming pool D’Rapport Residences also provides a 11,000 sq. full-scale basketball court, elevated garden walk addition to the usual spa, sauna and fitness faci amenities include badminton courts, squash co stations and indoor golf simulator and putting g D’Rapport Residences is strategically located w access to highways that interconnect Kuala Lump towns. For example, the entry onto AKLEH that p KLCC’s carpark within 5 minutes is merely 500 m To deliver the promises of a perfect home an Group engaged Wyndham Hotel & Resorts as th company. A reputable international organizatio provide owner at D’Rapport Residences upscale experience. Wyndham will not only ensure the quality s enjoy at D’Rapport Residences but also uphold t of maintenance to assure their comfort and sec conveniences that will be available at D’Rappor concierge service, housekeeping and personaliz mention a few. Hence, it can be said that reside enjoy the conveniences of a five-star hotel in th For more information, please visit www.dra
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An outdoor path suitable for relaxing or brisk walks just outside the residence.
The well-equipped gymnasium overlooking the inviting swimming pool.
ntial parks.
ry condominium with development consists of ts of apartments on each
pport Residences takes door facilities spread m deck over and above ls and playgrounds, q. ft. landscaped forest, kways and greens. In ilities, the unique indoor ourts, mini cinema, game greens. with direct and easy pur with major satellite provides direct access into meters from our entrance. nd investment, Acmar he property management on like Wyndham will e full-service hospitality
services residents will the best standards curity. Among the rt Residences include zed butler services to ents of D’Rapport will heir very own home! apport.com.my
Stunning evening view from the Pavilion.
The five towers of D’Rapport will have a stately presence in Kuala Lumpur.
The luxurious Sky Bar exudes relaxation.
F eatured Development
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The LBS Alam Perdana township incorporates elements of nature.
SAFETY IS KEY AT LBS ALAM PERDANA Affordable landed property and top security features attract buyers
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HE up-and-coming gated and guarded township of LBS Alam Perdana has gained popularity with investors and households seeking new landed properties because of its affordable pricing and steady growth prospects. LBS Bina Group Bhd is developing this 470-acre property into a comfortable residential township that has an estimated GDV of RM5bil. In the last 15 months, LBS Alam Perdana launched its first three projects -- and all have received an overwhelming response. The residential projects launched are Simfoni Perdana, consisting of 22’ x 75’ townhouses, Irama Perdana and Rentak Perdana, both comprising 20’ x 60’ double-storey terrace houses. The townhouses are priced from RM388,000 for a rate of RM297psf and the terrace houses start at RM509,900 or RM359psf. Future launches will include semi-
Ds and apartments with strata titles. The developer has a grandeur plan of a mix township consisting of residential units, commercial centres, recreational gardens and educational hubs. The site has allocated plots for affordable homes and Perumahan Penjawat Awam Malaysia (PPAM) units that will be price-friendly for first-time buyers and public sector workers.
Top-notch safety features LBS group managing director Tan Sri Lim Hock San refers to their top-tier safety and security features for driving the success of the recent projects. The features include a gated community with 24-hour CCTV surveillance complemented by threetier security checkpoints within the compound. Though relatively young compared
Top-tier safety and security features are driving the success of LBS projects.
LBS Alam Perdana is focusing on young families making their initial home purchase or families who are relocating to a protected living environment.
Affordable price range and steady growth prospects attract house buyers and investors to developments by LBS.
to mature townhoods in the state, the site will be accessible via an array of transportation links including Jalan Kuala Selangor, Persiaran Mokthar Dahari, Guthrie Corridor Expressway, Latar, and DASH which is under construction.
Promoting family and community LBS Alam Perdana is focusing on young families making their initial home purchase or families who are relocating to a protected living environment. Being close to Bandar Puncak Alam makes it convenient for Alam Perdana residents to shop at Tesco, Econsave and NSK.
Facilities at Rentak Perdana will help foster a wholesome lifestyle for residents.
Families with school-going children will be able to consider SK Puncak Alam and SMK Puncak Alam or the Wesley Methodist International School while UiTM Puncak Alam will be available to tertiary education candidates. A key feature of the neighbourhood will be the linear rear garden connecting all homes to create a sense of community in the location. Accessible common facilities and scenic landscaped gardens will be strategically placed to promote bonding in line with the theme of ‘Inspired Community Living’. The developer is relying on its expertise to create a self-sustainable neighbourhood community at LBS Alam Perdana.
A community-friendly design promotes a sense of togetherness among residents.
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E xpert Sharing
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LOCATION ALONE IS NOT ENOUGH Comment by SHAN SAEED
properties will be a smart move.
B
Good investment entry point
EING the serious business that it is, strategic property investment requires a lot of market intelligence report. You don’t invest by listening to others; you invest with your expertise. I will share my investment outlook with readers in four broad areas: risk, opportunities, trends and outlook. In 2018, the trade war between the United States and China was the hot topic among key global players. Its effects will continue this year and leave investors on edge. With the government shutdown in America, the investment risk keeps rising. The global economy in 2019 will witness lots of volatility and upheaval, especially in the advanced economies.
In the Klang Valley, many investors are now focusing on Old Klang Road (OKR) because the area is connected to five major points: Puchong, Petaling Jaya, Mid Valley, KL Sentral and KLCC. Many developers, infrastructure and market dynamics are at play in OKR. This is where smart investors take position, looking at this area from a strategic perspective. Ultimately, this place will become an investment hotspot in Malaysia. It is undervalued by 15% to 20% and still not saturated. It is still growing. If you are looking to invest, you have to take a position in the real estate cycle when it is either in the introductory phase or the growth phase. At this moment, OKR is in the growth phase.
Change in investment approach When I was attending a real estate course at the University of Chicago, I learnt that the location phenomenon has gone. In fact, quoting “location, location, location” as the three main attributes of any real estate investment is now referred to as an old joke. Instead, real estate has three critical asset-level dimensions -- namely property type, geography and life cycle.
It is about the demographics of buyers, life cycle of real estate and, most importantly, adopting a different perspective. Nobody is interested in a rundown property. Everybody is looking for new condominiums and properties that promote a luxury lifestyle. Branded
residences such as Ritz Carlton, Sofitel and Jumeirah are favoured by many investors. People are also looking for shortterm rental properties such as small apartments and condo units so that they can leverage on the Airbnb platform. In the long run, investing in these
> Shan Saeed is Chief Economist at IQI Global, a leading property and investment company. He has 18 years of financial market experience in the areas of private banking, risk/compliance management, commodity investments, and brand and business strategy.
F eatured Development
LUXURY AT AN AFFORDABLE PRICE
Feature-filled Antara Residence caters to high demand for housing in Putrajaya
L Every floor comes with a sky garden.
The rooftop garden brings residents closer to nature.
OCATED 25km from Kuala Lumpur, the country’s administrative capital of Putrajaya houses a population that mostly comprises civil servants. The well-planned city of Putrajaya meets the needs of its residents and enhances the quality of their lives. The availability of job opportunities, growing retail sector and easy access of the city attract people from other parts of the Klang Valley through the Maju Expressway (MEX), Damansara Puchong Highway, Elite Highway, South Klang Valley Expressway and Putrajaya-Cyberjaya Expressway. Among the projects that cater to the high demand for housing in Putrajaya is a serviced apartment development in Presint 5 by Nadi Cergas Development Sdn Bhd. Scheduled for completion in 2022, the 1.32-acre freehold Antara Residence comes with a wide range of facilities such as lap pool, pavilion, yoga and gym studio, herb garden and
relax lounge. The one to three-room apartments, from 583sf to 1,006sf, are among the most affordable in Putrajaya with a starting price of RM335,000. Outstanding features of the units include a high ceiling of up to 3.5m, well-designed layouts, increased privacy with only six to eight units per wing, and premium lobby and corridor. The 29-storey Antara Residence comes with sky garden on every floor to create a green and sustainable environment that brings residents closer to nature. For more information on Antara Residence, visit www. antaraputrajaya. com or call 0162862556. RIGHT Thoughtfully designed spaces.
High ceiling enhances the interior of the units.
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Cover Story
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> From page 03
Architect
Ezumi Harzani Ismail
Malaysian Institute of Architects (PAM) president
IN > Smart and eco-friendly New technology is introduced to ease our daily lives. As digital natives, millennials are keen on smart homes with the presence of Internet-connected devices that offer data integration, remote support and cloud-based access. “The eco-friendly features are also sought after to counter the high cost of living. Besides promoting resource efficiency, these features also encourage healthy living,” said Ezumi.
Furniture dealer
and can be reconfigured or renovated either horizontally or vertically. The flat and soundproof suspended ceiling is also among materials that home owners look forward to.
IN > Clean lines and open space The majority of new building structures are being designed as open space with clean and sleek lines. According to Ezumi, it is not only faster to construct but also easier to maintain. “However, the modern and international design style prevalent globally today makes cities around the world look the same,” he said.
IN > Lifestyle-focused With improved living standards, the home has become more than just a roof over the head. Ezumi said that today’s housing products must come with lifestyle elements and home buyers are willing to pay more for a better living environment. For example, new housing projects across the country generally come with lifestyle facilities such as gymnasium, swimming pool, recreation deck and social kitchen.
OUT > Big kitchen and dining area “A big kitchen and dining room may not be on the wish list of home design 2019,” said Ezumi. The growing trend of socialising through meetings at restaurants resulted in booming F&B businesses. “This has adversely reduced the need for a big dining space at home,” he said.
Goh Boon Sin
keeping Timeless Design managing director TRACK “More retro materials will make a comeback with a modern twist, of such as terrazzo composite floors and rattan morphed into trendy DÉCOR furniture.” TRENDS Industry experts reveal what’s on fire and what’s IN > Terrazzo “The terrazzo flooring that we used to losing see in our grandmother’s house will make a comeback in 2019,” said Goh. lustre Durable with minimum for home maintenance, terrazzo was a low-cost flooring option in the old days. It consists design of colourful marble or granite chips in Source: online
the concrete. Nowadays, technology has given customers a wider selection of colours. Terrazzo can be paired with bold and bright colours for a trendy feel. “For example, incorporating terrazzo with Pantone’s colour of the year 2019 -Living Coral -- to fit the current mood,” said Goh. Besides using it as flooring material, terrazzo can also be transformed into a backsplash, tabletop and even home accessories such as lighting.
OUT > Industrial style The raw and rustic industrial style gained traction some 10 years ago but will fade eventually. "This design style has reached a bottleneck where the market is flooded with the same types of industrial furniture and fittings, especially in cafe and restaurant spaces," said Goh. “They look similar and have lost their charm and characteristics.” Besides the easy access and wide range of the industrial-style furniture, the intentionally unrefined look such as raw cement and unfinished steel also helps to save on renovation cost. It is one of the reasons why the design choice is preffered in the local market. “We all love the industrial style, but I think it is time to move on and play with something new,” he said.
OUT > Shiny gold and brass The time for clear gold and brass tone is coming to an end. If you still want to incorporate the metallic accent in your home design, choose the one with Patina or a rustic feel. “In the past two years, the shiny gold and brass tone is everywhere to represent an elegant and noble feel. However, it now becomes a supportive element to adorn the atmosphere,” said Goh. You could pair it with emerald or ash grey tone, for a subtle yet vintage ambience.
ukir
IN > Home office The influence of the Internet and cyber technologies has boosted work-fromhome opportunities. “Thus the need for a study room or home office equipped with a computer and other facilities will be increasingly important in the new house design,” Ezumi.
IN > Adaptable house “Adaptable homes that promote a modular design as well as plug-and-play building elements are popular among Malaysians,” said Ezumi. The adaptable house allows flexibility
OUT > Traditional building features Though it means a departure from the local culture and heritage, traditional building features such as wood carving or ukir will gradually disappear in future designs. “Not only is it hard to find skilled artisans, it is costly even when you do. It makes more sense for the designer to source for mass-produced materials at a lower price,” explained Ezumi.
IN > Rattan with a modern twist Modern-design rattan is on the rise, using furniture to add elegance to your home. “The old material is tapping into our fond memories. In a fast-pace impersonal digital age, people are now more nostalgic than ever," said Goh. “Rattan is being modernised to appear in our daily life, capture our sentimental memory and stay close to our heart.” The blend of retro materials with modern design is one of the highlights of 2019, with the lightweight, warm and airy nature of rattan being the perfect match for tropical settings. Since most of it is harvested from the rainforests of Asia and Africa, the easy accessibility to the material makes it an affordable option for Malaysian homes.
OUT > Pastel colours The sweet and dreamy pastels will gradually dwindle from our sight. However, emerald hues and navy blue tone will continue to shine in 2019. “We recommended pairing bold and adventurous colours with vintage collectable pieces to create a statement for space,” said Goh. It is not always necessary to splash the whole wall to show you are with the colour trend. Pastel colours can be utilised to modestly show the intricate details of your home design, such as curtains.