- 2025 Prize
- From Residential Space
AIRA Residence Show Unit – Damansara Heights – Kuala Lumpur – Malaysia
Project Description
Nestled in the prestigious enclave of Damansara Heights, the AIRA Residence Show Unit is a celebration of curated artistry, environmental consciousness, and refined Malaysian craftsmanship. Guided by the design narrative “The Artistic Topography – Shaping a Landscape of Art and Expression,” the project redefines contemporary living as a soulful and sustainable experience.
This residence was envisioned for a design-savvy, art-collecting couple seeking a timeless sanctuary—one that reflects both their minimalist lifestyle and deep appreciation for originality. Every aspect of the interior was thoughtfully composed to resonate with their values of responsible living, artistic sensibility, and material honesty.
What distinguishes this project is its deep integration of sustainability and locality. Over 80% of materials are locally sourced—ranging from natural oak veneers to reconstituted terrazzo and lime-based plasters, all selected for their low embodied carbon and eco-certified credentials. Finishes were chosen with health and environment in mind, adhering to low-VOC standards and formaldehyde-free specifications.
The design team collaborated closely with local artisans and fabricators to create custom pieces that elevate the home’s narrative. In the master bedroom, the bedhead wall is clad with a hand-tufted rug panel, crafted by a Malaysian rugs artisan. The tactile, undulating texture not only echoes the home’s topographic theme but also adds a layer of artistry and warmth, turning the wall into a functional artwork.
The walk-in wardrobe is a highlight of both craftsmanship and cultural homage. The perfume display niche, designed with refined repetition and rhythmic lines, was inspired by traditional Malaysian weaving patterns, reinterpreted in a contemporary language through timber joinery and ambient lighting. It serves as a quiet tribute to heritage within a modern context.
All major furniture pieces—including the living room coffee table, bedroom console, and lighting elements—were custom-designed and fabricated specifically for this home. These items, produced by Malaysian makers, showcase a synergy between technology and handcraft, and underscore the studio’s commitment to regional talent development.
Spatially, the home is crafted to flow seamlessly between levels and zones, creating a calming rhythm throughout. Soft, indirect lighting articulates wall textures and sculptural surfaces. A natural, grounded material palette evokes comfort and permanence, while bespoke features introduce an emotional and personal dimension.
The design process was both intensive and collaborative, with the team dedicating extensive time to material experimentation, artisan coordination, and sustainability research. This was not a fast-tracked fit-out—it was a carefully sculpted journey, shaped with intentionality and care.
Ultimately, the AIRA Residence Show Unit is more than a showcase—it is a living gallery. A space where sustainability meets art, and where modern Malaysian design is celebrated through craftsmanship, cultural sensitivity, and a profound respect for the environment.
