DOTY  ·  Featured Story

DOTY 2026 Best Residential Design (Landed – Gold): Surface R Design Sdn Bhd – The Velar

June 6, 2026

This semi-detached home in Sungai Besi, Kuala Lumpur designed by Surface R Design Sdn Bhd was first featured in Designer Concept Issue 90.

Image courtesy of Surface R Design Sdn Bhd

SUMPTUOUS REFINEMENT

Understated luxury and convenient comfort intersects with the organic allure of natural materials at this reinterpretation of refined modern living.

A striking example of modern luxury living, The Velar is a refined sanctuary that blends contemporary aesthetics with cosy functionality. Its design ethos fundamentally revolves around comfort and simplicity, allowing the raw beauty and inviting essence of the natural materials themselves to take centre stage. A restrained black, white and grey colour palette underscores the home’s minimalist sophistication, creating a serene and cohesive environment throughout.

The substantial use of marble and wood in both the interior and exterior spaces–including the swimming pool–is a defining feature of The Velar. Marble surfaces provide a sense of opulence while warm wooden accents, especially fluted panelling details, inject texture and depth without overwhelming the space. After bypassing the sumptuous living area, you’ll find a family-style dining table set and a casual breakfast nook is separated by an elegant barrier, the sturdy structure allowing both sides illuminated by contrasting geometric lights to retain their privacy and intimate atmosphere.

Image courtesy of Surface R Design Sdn Bhd

The master bedroom is the epitome of unencumbered comfort and understated elegance. Curved cabinetry and an upholstered headboard that blends into the feature wall introduce softness and warmth, while a hidden door embedded within the fluted panelled walls showcase ingenuity at its finest. Storage is handled with style and precision; the walk-in wardrobe looks inspired by high-end retail stores with streamlined shelving, hidden drawers and sleek lighting that highlights the elegance of each garment and accessory.

Image courtesy of Surface R Design Sdn Bhd

In the master bathroom, a rough-textured stone wall creates a dramatic focal point, contrasting with smooth marble surfaces by evoking a rugged feel in reference to the wilderness. This precise tactile interplay continues into the secondary lounge, where a dual-toned concept is applied to make a clear distinction between the comfy lounge area and a sleek bar station. The interaction between matte and glossy surfaces, hard and soft textures, and warm and cool tones creates a harmonious environment that feels both luxurious and welcoming.

The Velar also embraces modern living conveniences. A fully equipped home gym ensures fitness and wellness is always accessible, while a lift positioned adjacent to the car park enhances mobility for all occupants. The car park itself is visually connected to the house via transparent glass walls, offering a sense of openness while maintaining privacy and security. This thoughtful planning ensures both practicality and elegance in the home’s circulation.

Image courtesy of Surface R Design Sdn Bhd

A perfect blend of modern luxury and timeless elegance, The Velar is a masterpiece that celebrates natural textures, sleek lines and ambient lighting to create a warm, sophisticated retreat. Every detail is crafted to inspire comfort and style, offering a living space that balances functionality with tactile richness and impactful visuals in a way that makes daily routines feel both tranquil and indulgent. In essence, this home presents an immersive experience in refined modern living.

Image courtesy of Surface R Design Sdn Bhd
About the Designer of the Year Awards and Best Residential Design

The Designer of the Year Award (DOTY) aspires to discover and honour the exceptional works of talented designers from Malaysia and beyond. It sets the benchmark of excellence in design and is committed to championing them in architecture and interior.

The theme of DOTY 2026, “Celebrating Design Intelligence”, highlights how design has evolved beyond mere aesthetics to encompass functionality and sustainability, where user experience, environmentally-friendly materials and technology integration are essential to well-being and efficiency.

Designers who have transformed mere houses into ultimate dream homes through their ingenuity and attention to detail are awarded Best Residential Design. Their projects, which are either landed or high-rise, are featured in Designer Concept.

Visit doty.com.my for more information.