Fresh paint, updated accessories, clever new additions, and architectural changes can turn lacklustre facades into true showstoppers as proven by this newly renovated 20-year-old home.
Located in the suburbs of Kuala Lumpur, the two-and-half storey house underwent almost a year and a half of renovation works during the recent pandemic lockdown.
The vision was to create a comfortable home filled with plenty of light and an airy interior that incorporated a modern farmhouse design. For the husband-and-wife duo behind Framework Studio, this was just up their creative alley.
“We are passionate about creating beautiful interiors and we focus on (revamping) old houses into ideal homes,” shares Joanne Low, creative director of Framework Studio.
The concept for this home was the result of a collaborative effort between Low and the homeowner.
“We were constantly exchanging ideas and improvising to create what became the final concept for this home,” says Low.
This made the renovation process fun, according to Low.
“It could also be challenging because we had set such a high standard on our requirements to ensure perfection.
“When we first saw the house, it was quite dated and the kitchen was smaller. The attic was also small and had no balcony,” recalls Low. “The challenge was having to work around the existing layout structure without losing the ideas and requirements given by the homeowner.”
From ordinary to unique
The design aesthetic of the completed house can be described as modern eclectic.
This was mainly due to the homeowner’s taste and requirements and the collaboration with the design team.
Low admits to having some favourite spaces in the house.
“We created a cosy nook in the kitchen where the homeowners could spend time having a cup of coffee with generous natural light coming through the skylight that we created at the corner of the kitchen.
“It was in keeping with the homeowner’s desire for a spacious kitchen with a rustic farmhouse theme.
“We removed a column and replaced it with new beams to create a little nook behind the glass canopy.
“Next is the hideaway attic that we created with new industrial stairs to make it more functional.
“It became a family area with a TV and full-height open-shelf to store collectibles and books. So it also turned into a reading area for the homeowners,” says Low.
The attic was originally a small mezzanine floor with wooden flooring. This was demolished to make way for a new attic with concrete flooring.
By combining the homeowner’s favourite collections with clever design sensibilities, this turned into a personal sanctuary that was perfect for the young occupants.
To make the attic more functional, Low created a balcony adjacent to the family area that allows for barbecue get-together sessions or simply to enjoy the sunset.
Low’s tips for anyone looking to create their dream home are to know what you want to achieve versus reality, and to always be firm with what you want to achieve and to stick with that.
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The family room was converted from an attic space that wasn’t fully utilised before. Photos: Framework Studio
The homeowners wanted a big kitchen with a farmhouse theme.
The homeowners’ personal touches lend the home warmth and personality.
The blue curvy headrest gives the bedroom a touch of playfulness.
The cosy nook at the back of the kitchen is perfect for morning coffee.
The family den is cosy but also invigorating.
The design idea was to create a comfortable home filled with plenty of light and an airy interior.
The cosy breakfast nook nestled at the back of the kitchen is the designer’s favourite corner of the home.
The family den opens up to a balcony that’s great for a barbecue or just to watch the sunset.
The owners' home is brightened by their colourful collection of decor items.
