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DOTY 2026 Best Showhouse Design (Gold): Designstudio MVH Sdn Bhd – The Empress Lake (at Orkides Botanic City)

June 2, 2026
Image courtesy of Designstudio MVH Sdn Bhd

REGAL CONFLUENCE

Heritage architecture meets a classic contemporary design to birth a sophisticated yet inviting living environment.

Set within the emerging landscape of Phnom Penh, The Empress Lake at Orkides Botanic City stands as a refined interpretation of New Classic Luxury. Conceived as a villa showhouse, the project bridges the site’s colonial architecture with contemporary clarity, namely through streamlined forms, structured panelling and luxurious touches. What transpires is a relaxed and welcoming yet composed and sophisticated environment that has been conceived to appease the senses.

The architecture presents generous ceiling heights and numerous window openings, inviting plenty of sunlight to move freely through the interiors. Rather than competing with this openness, the design embraces it. A muted colour palette composed of warm neutrals anchors the space, drawing inspiration from traditional British homes to address and navigate the homeliness of spaces.

Image courtesy of Designstudio MVH Sdn Bhd

Structured wall panels form part of the backbone of the interior language, in conjunction with simplified mouldings which instil discipline and rhythm for a sense of order that carries all throughout the home. Dark timber accent on frames and ceiling beadings introduce depth, grounding the lighter surfaces and establishing contrast without heaviness. These sophisticated details not only form a canvas upon which furnishings and art can quietly resonate, but also celebrate the confluence of European craftsmanship and Asian dwelling culture.

Against the architectural rigour of these panels, the chosen furniture introduces some much-needed softness. Streamlined forms with curvilinear edges temper the geometry of the panelled walls. Accented piping traces the contours of sofas and armchairs, while dual fabric upholstery adds subtle layering. This dialogue between structure and silhouette is intentional in the effort to achieve balance, collectively creating a sense of discipline that’s softened by comfort.

Image courtesy of Designstudio MVH Sdn Bhd

Other than brushed dark stain oak which lends warmth and continuity, materials responsible for moulding the showhouse’s identity include the expanses of white marble that introduce a cool luminosity under natural light. Nickel metal accents enhance the palette with quiet sophistication, catching reflections from the windows and chandeliers. These materials are selected not merely for visual richness but for their tactile resonance too.

Luxurious touches elevate the living experience without overwhelming it, whereby multiple textures and surfaces become a language of welcome. A sculpted crystal and glass chandelier descends like a luminous centrepiece, refracting light into delicate fragments across ceilings and panels. In the master suite, another example is found: a bespoke headboard clad in De Gournay wallpaper inserts artistry and narrative, its intricate pattern lending character. Soft touches of fabric upholstery on plush cushions, upholstered bedding and layered drapery further enhance the showhouse’s sense of homeliness.

Image courtesy of Designstudio MVH Sdn Bhd

Ultimately, The Empress Lake at Orkides Botanic City is where structure and softness coexist, and where colonial echoes meet contemporary refinement. Every panel, curve and material gesture contributes to a cohesive narrative that celebrates heritage while embracing present-day living. In its quiet confidence, the showhouse offers more than visual appeal. It presents an elevated way of dwelling: elegant yet relaxed, sophisticated yet warm. It’s a timeless expression crafted for modern life in Phnom Penh.

Image courtesy of Designstudio MVH Sdn Bhd
About the Designer of the Year Awards and Best Showhouse 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.

Best Showhouse Design is presented to designers who have conceived the most compelling and well-thought-out designs, giving potential homeowners a visualisation of the finished space, and an experience of the layout and construction quality. Their exceptional projects are featured in Designer Concept.

Visit doty.com.my for more information.