Nevermore: Best Residential Design GOLD, High-rise – Marriott Residence

Step inside Malaysia’s award-winning high-rise homes, where contemporary living comes with a stylishly personal charm captured by DOTY 2025's cohort of designers

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 — High-rise

MARRIOTT RESIDENCE by Nevermore

Tucked under the same roof as the prestigious Penang Marriott Hotel, Marriott Residences stands as a beacon of opulence and sophistication in Gurney Drive. Amongst its 90 elegantly appointed suites, the team at Nevermore Group has transformed one particular 3,200 sq. ft. unit into a haven of modern luxury.

Known for their penchant for blending timeless elegance with contemporary flair, this project exemplifies their design ethos: a perfect marriage of meticulous craftsmanship and high-end materials. The design concept taken by the team draws its essence from the pursuit of refined sophistication, with an emphasis on modern luxury. The interiors are a canvas for exquisite materials such as rich veneers, sleek titanium-coated accents and striking stonework. The resulting ambiance is one of understated elegance, exuding a sense of timeless opulence.

At the core of the design philosophy is a meticulous balance between intentional form and function. The imported flutter panels on the steel doors add texture and intrigue, while the sleek titanium accents create a futuristic yet warm feel. The interplay between the polished and natural surfaces throughout the home ensures a harmonious blend of modernity and comfort. This home is not only visually stunning but also caters to practical living needs. The use of premium materials is the common thread throughout, but the way they are deployed is what sets this project apart.

The living room is the heart of this home, a space reflecting Nevermore’s dedication to creating spaces that are as livable as they are luxurious. Neutral tones dominate the space, with plush seating upholstered in soft beige fabric inviting relaxation. The sleek, custom-designed paneled wall adds architectural interest without overwhelming the space. Its clean horizontal lines, paired with the soft texture of the surrounding materials, brings together the design within the space.

Light plays a starring role in the living room—generous windows framed with soft, floor-to-ceiling curtains flood the room with natural light. The effect is airy yet grounded, thanks to the muted palette and thoughtful furniture choices. A rich caramel-hued dining set tucked to the side provides a pop of contrast, elevating the overall aesthetic. It’s a space designed for gathering, lounging and unwinding—everything a modern living room should embody.

Flowing seamlessly from the living room, the kitchen is where clean lines and timeless materials converge. Embracing a neutral palette, the team’s design paired creamy cabinetry against striking marble surfaces, with the use of natural stone with bold veining adorning both the countertops and backsplash. It’s a design choice that speaks of elegance without the need for excess.

The central island is the true focal point of the kitchen. Clad in ribbed detailing and topped with marble, a suspended light fixture floats effortlessly above, casting a warm glow that complements the earthy undertones of the space. The brushed bronze accents add just the right amount of warmth and contrast. Subtle recessed lighting and pristine cabinetry ensure a clutter-free, calming environment that further accentuates the minimalist, clean lines.

In the master suite, the design team employs warm, neutral tones to craft an atmosphere that is serene and inviting. The centerpiece, a plush upholstered bed, is flanked by softly illuminated table lamps that seem to sculpt light into the space. One of the main design highlights is the full-height bedhead, a dramatic feature that marries form and comfort. Finished in premium veneer and adorned with cushion upholstery, it becomes a statement piece, effortlessly combining luxury with coziness in the bedroom.

The feature wall, clad in wood with vertical paneling, adds a layer of texture and quiet drama. Subtle integrated lighting highlights the architectural elements without feeling intrusive, creating a cocoon-like ambiance perfect for rest. The floor-to-ceiling curtains soften the room’s edges, balancing its modern sensibilities with a touch of warmth. Beneath it all lies a textured area rug that grounds the space, providing both visual interest and tactile comfort.

Another standout transformation within the project is the conversion of one of the rooms into a bespoke library, a space that adapts seamlessly to modern lifestyles. Serving as a haven for relaxation and productivity, the library boasts of a floor-to-ceiling shelving which offers a timeless display for an impressive book collection while showcasing unique design elements such as custom joinery and warm wood finishes that lend a sense of refinement and character to the space.

Special attention has been shown on the choice of materials, each with its own narrative and story to tell within the space. The Patagonia-inspired sintered stone, used both as a centerpiece and to clad kitchen worktops and cabinetry, is one of the outstanding features. Its intricate veining and durability make it a perfect fusion of beauty and practicality. Titanium-coated panels and imported veneer enhance the sense of exclusivity, while unique pieces like the UFO dining table serve as conversation starters, combining artisanal craftsmanship with a touch of whimsy.

With a keen eye for detail, an uncompromising selection of materials and a dedication to creating spaces that endure both in style and function, Nevermore Group has reimagined a space within Marriott Residences that is a sanctuary of sophistication.