DAA Design Associates: Best Residential Design GOLD, Landed – Villa 8

Highlighting innovative design that merges modern aesthetics with the unique personal touches of its owners, the award-winning landed homes handpicked by DOTY 2025’s distinguished judges redefine excellence and showcase a touch of éclat that cements them as first-rate in the industry

The winning projects at this year’s Designer of the Year Awards, commonly recognised as DOTY, are among Malaysia’s finest designs. In honouring and celebrating the works of leading visionaries, the platform has become the benchmark of excellence in the Malaysian and international design scene. With exceptional talent, these design studios are able to change the worlds that surround them into innovative spaces of being, living and breathing. Presenting — the recipients of the 15th installation of the DOTY Awards.

Gold Winner of DOTY 2025 Best Residential Design — Landed

VILLA 8 by DAA Design Associates

Commissioned by a gentleman in his 60s, this Johor home designed by DAA Design Associates is the pinnacle of an elegant, timeless, and contemporary abode. Liveability is a strong emphasis here, but not at the expense of beauty and sophistication. All these different elements come together cohesively in this home that is complete with a gentle warmth. After all, a home is not just a house where inhabitants rest their weary souls and bodies, but rather, they must be a sanctuary that truly rejuvenates them, as well as add a sense of liveliness.

This Johor home truly embodies the that sentiment. Starting with its exterior, it exudes the vibe of a peaceful oasis. The landscaping in the garden is simply elegant, and the pool certainly looks inviting. Inside, this minimalistic and serene aura continues, with a calming palette that is accented by warm tones. There are a lot of soft greys and whites, and the addition of brown through leather or wood really helps to bring that deeper feeling of welcoming.

The homeowner is interested in art collection, and that interest is duly reflected in the artistic, free, and relaxed atmosphere in this home. And of course, there are practical sensibilities tailored to this interest as well, with many spaces where art pieces can be displayed. In the living room, the wall of tile-like art certainly set the tone for this interest. But many more vibrant and evocative pieces can be found throughout the rest of the home. The minimalistic décor really helps make these pieces pop.

Aligned with the client’s wishes, the designers made internal adjustments to remove existing barriers and introduce a multi-layered approach. This features moveable doors to different spaces that allow for separation while preserving a sense of spaciousness and cohesion.

But since there are certain things that couldn’t be altered, the designers cleverly worked around those limitations to extend spaces wherever possible, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor to give a really open atmosphere. The circle skylight hovering above the dining table is an example of this practice, bringing in light and a glimpse of nature, while still keeping it sensible for the home. Colourful Hermes scarves can be observed and admired here, complemented by curated light fittings to give a modern and tasteful touch of uniqueness.