DOTY 2026 Best Residential Design (High-Rise – Gold): Doubble Interior Associates – Meadow

This revitalised condominium in Mont Kiara designed by Doubble Interior Associates was first featured in Designer Concept Issue 91.

RUSTIC RENEWAL

A dated condominium is transformed into a bright, farmhouse-inspired sanctuary, balancing rustic warmth with modern high-rise living.

Kindly given a new facelift, Meadow is a modern farmhouse reimagined within the physical context of a dated condominium unit. Offering a fresh start rooted in warmth, simplicity and practicality, it’s a drastic renovation that turns a home that was once dark, heavy and cluttered into one that’s bright, open and filled with a sense of calm. The designers’ focus was centred on creating a timeless home that is both comfortable and easy to live in. This is expressed through natural wood tones, simple forms and handcrafted details such as the arched wall and frosted-glass cabinets, balancing rustic comfort with city practicality.

Rather than competing with the city skyline beyond, the interiors frame it quietly. Throughout the home, soft grey tones and deep timber surfaces add depth, preventing the farmhouse inspiration from becoming overly rustic. As a result, the palette strikes a fine balance between urban yet country, elegant yet cosy. Ventilation and daylight were maximised in the renovation strategy, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and mechanical cooling. By reusing the existing structural framework and focusing on long-lasting finishes, the design minimizes material waste and anticipates longevity.

Originally enclosed and visually fragmented, selected walls were removed to improve movement and visibility across shared spaces, allowing natural light to travel deeper into the home. What replaces the former rigidity is an open, fluid layout where the dry kitchen and dining area form the unmistakable epicentre of daily life. Within this ‘heart of the home’, a balance of natural materials such as quartz, terrazzo, dark wood and frosted glass was used for warmth and durability. These choices also ensure the space stays timeless and easy to maintain.

Going into the specifics, the island table echoes linear details that match that of the splashback to emphasise the streamlined look and subtly echo the high-rise setting. The frosted-glass cabinets provide visual lightness while maintaining privacy and order, diffusing light in a way that enhances both texture and atmosphere. While hidden LED lights grant a soft, warm glow to the splashback, the eight-seater dining table is illuminated by the tiered pendant lights descending with sculptural precision. Additionally, both sources of artificial light enhance the tactile richness of the varied surfaces. An arched wall display nearby offers a gentle architectural gesture that contrasts with the clean lines of the cabinetry and built-ins.

A balance of natural materials play a central role in shaping the home’s character. Quartz surfaces offer durability while terrazzo introduces tactility—most notably in the master bathroom’s vanity top. There, clean beige tiles, warm wood cabinetry and restrained detailing create a spa-like retreat. The transformation feels simple and refreshing, reflecting the larger philosophy of the project: calm, functional and composed. Every corner has been considered for comfort and ease of use on a daily basis, ensuring that beauty never compromises usability.

Championing the philosophy of slow country living in the city, Meadow strikes a fine balance by pairing rustic references with modern precision. It respects the constraints of condominium living while gently expanding its possibilities. The result is a home that feels timeless and easy to maintain; it’s a place where textures are honest, forms are clear, and everyday rituals unfold with comfort and grace. In its renewed state, Meadow stands as proof that even within the density of the city, warmth can take root and flourish.

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.