CONTENT

Abode And Dwellings

PUBLISHER
Abode And Dwellings
Letter from the Editor 01
Feature Home
EDITORIAL
Editor A Modern Mix 02
Sarah Adnan
sarah.adnan@abode.my Distinction Through Culture 10
Writers
Jessica Law Choosing The Right Art Pieces 13
jessica.law@abode.my For Your Home
Andrew Tan Exclusive Living - Zenia Parkhomes
andrewtan@reapfiled.com
Contributor Living In Tranquillity In The 14
Dr. Darren Ng Heart Of Town
drngdarren@gmail.com
Creating Value in our Property 17
Photographer
Kricia Bong
and Community
kriciapc@yahoo.com
Regulars
DESIGN
Graphic Designer
Chic Living 19
Kricia Bong
kriciapc@yahoo.com
Current Projects 21
About Abode & Dwellings 25

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For any enquiries:
Email: enquiries@abode.my
Tel: +(603) 2096 9184 Disclaimer: Although every reasonable care has been taken to ensure the accuracy and objectivity of the information contained in this publication, neither
Fax: + (603) 2096 9186 the publishers, editor, and their employees and agents can be held liable for any errors, inaccuracies and / or omisions, howsoever. We shall not be liable
for any actions taken based on the views expressed or information provided within this publication. You should always seek professional advice from the
appropriate advisor, professional or institution. Copyright 2010.
 LETTER
FROM THE EDITOR

W elcome to the inaugural magazine issue of Abode & Dwellings

Interiors. Abode & Dwellings Interiors is an interior design
(ID) firm that strives to help individuals find the best in living. The firm
Abode & Dwelling Regulars will give readers a glance at home and
office spaces that have been given the Abode & Dwellings touch.
In this magazine, we feature a studio unit that is located in Mont
was founded by two individuals with years of professional experience Kiara. This section will also give you a sneak peek into what Abode
in the ID industry and strong passion for creating idyllic spaces. & Dwellings is working on at the time of publication. These ongoing
Since our inception, Abode & Dwellings Interiors has successfully projects will be illustrated in 3D artist impressions and after they are
completed a myriad of projects. The Abode & Dwellings Magazine completed, actual photographs will be shown in the following issue.
is developed to share our knowledge and love in designing beautiful In this quarter’s issue, our featured ongoing projects include the office
homes and offices. In this magazine and in subsequent issues, we will renovations of an IT company and a consulting firm; as well as the
feature a few of these projects. The features are meant to serve as conception of a comfortable home suited for a family of young and
an illustration of some of these beautiful designs and to discover the old.
inspiration behind them.
In recent years, we have seen the popularity of urban contemporary
designs that incorporate Asian accents. Chinese and Japanese
paintings, calligraphy, and ornaments are classic décor items can
often enhance the theme of any room. These works of art are an
expression of the owner’s style and taste. Besides adorning a room,
certain well-placed décor items can also serve to improve feng shui. It
is both an aesthetic and practical combination.
In this issue, for our primary column called Feature Design, we are
featuring the modern furnishings of a home that incorporates this
We have many more ideas and designs to share with you. As such,
principle. We have a look at how the homeowner includes individual
we will be publishing our magazine on a quarterly basis. We are
pieces of Chinese art into a sophisticated bachelor pad.
excited about rolling out more new design concepts and we hope to
The Feature Design column will feature home owners and their be able to share them with you as we do our work. We do hope that
homes in every issue. The section will talk about the ideas in creating you enjoy the read!
personalised homes and how readers may achieve a space fit for their
own.
Thank you.
Feature Development provides an overview of new residential and
commercial developments. It will feature developments locally and
Warm regards,
from abroad. The property owners and investors among our readers
may find this section particularly interesting as it will allow you to Sarah Adnan
glean some information regarding up-and-coming developments. In
sarah.adnan@abode.my
this issue, we are featuring the upscale Zenia Parkhomes of Desa
ParkCity.
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 FEATURE HOME
A MODERN MIX

Dr Darren Ng, owner of a

three-storey Zenia Parkhomes

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ORGANIC FINISH: The above accent wall was created with large boards with a cement finish. The cement boards served as a
more viable option compared to raw cement treatment, which requires greater workmanship and cost. The white blocks on the left
serve as à la mode style guardrails; the concept has been used in commercial buildings but reduced proportionally to fit a home.

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 Instilling a parkhome with custom finishes
and Asian-inspired aesthetics

W alk through the door of a particular parkhome

in Desa ParkCity into its sitting area and you
will see a room that is tastefully decked in cool colour
tones, contemporary furnishings, and distinct pieces of
art that pays homage to Chinese influences.

The room exudes modernity and a sense of tranquility

– qualities that permeate the rest of the home’s expanse
as well. This was the aesthetic ideal that Dr. Darren Ng,
TEAK SETS: (Above) A walnut brown teak dining set sits well against the white tiles
and the wall’s rich grey hue. A single rug brings the look together. a businessman in his 30s, wanted to project when he
(Top right) A canvas with flamboyant colours stands out in the sitting area.
began renovation plans for his new pad a year ago.
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 GEOMETRIC LINES: The stair’s geometric handrails are
the most prominent feature of the house. Darren also erected
steel cables between floors to function as guardrails.

The furnishing of the three-storey home is largely minimalist as a result of using just a few basic colours. Darren
selected white and charcoal grey as dominant colours for the walls; and dark colours such as black and dark brown
for the furniture. Steel was a basic element that he used widely; made apparent by the distinguishly-designed stair
railings. The feng shui-like combination of water colours and metal elements invariably contribute to a calm and tranquil
ambience within the home.

Resonating with the minimalist concept that Darren hoped to achieve, clean, simple lines prevail throughout the house.
This is enhanced with crisp white blinds that rim glass doors and windows on every level.

His design selections were very much inspired by the works of famous Japanese architects and designers such as Tadao
Ando and Kengo Kuma. Japanese designs commonly employ principles of simplicity, minimalism, and practicality.
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 One of the most distinct fixtures in the house is its staircase, which is also a favourite feature of
Darren’s. A structure that he designed himself, the asymmetrically-shaped hand railings instinctively
double as quaint metal sculptures. The thick steel cables stretched vertically between each floor are an
intelligent way of functioning as guardrails.

The fixtures are not particularly friendly for family with young children, however. Though it has been
designed such that should little ones come along, tempered glass sheets can be inserted into the niche
to provide extra security.

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 Darren has found a good balance between sophistication and coziness by fitting in authentic merbau floor boards.
In selected areas of his home. The replacement of the original ivory tiles with dark walnut-stained wood on the first and
third floor gives the house more character whilst invoking comfort and elegance.

The lounge and dining area on the second level, however, have maintained the tiles. Darren’s decision to keep the
flooring for these areas allowed him to achieve a cozy yet classic setting. A beige sofa set and white console tops further
complement the lounge’s alabaster scheme. The lounge also has a feature wall displaying a cement finish. The result
is an organic effect that breaks through the area’s otherwise plain arrangement. Many Japanese architects have been
known to use raw cement finishes as feature walls. The one adapted by Darren was particularly inspired by Tadao Ando’s
work with the renowned Roppongi Hills Mall in Tokyo.

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 SMALL AND LARGE TOUCHES: The fiery red oil painting is displayed on the house’s upper
foyer. Works of art such as this can define the ambience of space whilst enhancing the value of the
house. On the left, sleek and elegant desk accentuates the Asian inspired themed study room.

Upon reaching the top floor, a large oil painting immediately catches the eye. Adorning an otherwise
barren wall, the bright red canvas adds much character to the upper foyer. The abstract art piece acts
well as the foyer’s centerpiece. A study on one end of the level holds an exquisite-looking desk and a
large book shelf carved out in Asian-influenced designs.

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 SOFT LIGHTS: Ambient lights were installed behind the headboard
to create a dramatic mood for the bedroom

On the other side, the master bedroom is invariably furnished as the coziest part of the house; utilising neutral tones
such as white, cream, and brown for the upholstery. On a wall section that beckons the bed, Darren fitted cushion boards
in ash brown to add softness to the room.

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 FEATURE HOME
DISTINCTION THROUGH CULTURE

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 As an avid home design
enthusiast himself, Darren
opines that one must never be
afraid in trying out new ideas
and concepts. The key is to
appropriately blend different
elements and items to create
a beautiful home – whether it
is to use contrasting colours to
create harmony or to combine
modern designs with Oriental
accents.

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 FEATURE HOME
CHOOSING THE RIGHT ART PIECES FOR YOUR HOME

A picture paints a thousand words – as the saying goes. Today, many homeowners are
moulding the trends of decoration by selecting art pieces to enhance their home. The
presence of exquisite art can do wonders to a home; many dwellers display pieces of art to set a
mood, accentuate a room, or even act as a finishing touch to it. Art pieces have always been the
choice of home owners when it comes to home decoration as it not only gives a room a sense
of elitism, but it also increases the value of the property and doubles as a Feng Shui feature as
well. Throughout our years of experience, many clients have sought our skills in searching for the
perfect painting for them. Although most people think that art is merely choosing a piece that you
like, there are three basic criteria that play an important role in your art selection. Many may find it
surprising that negligence of these points will do more harm than good do your sanctuary.

The first element which must be kept in mind at all times is to pick a piece which complements
the colour scheme. This, however, does not mean that a monotone scheme must be applied. If
you are aiming for a cool and cosy environment, then a painting which complements your wall
colour and overall colour theme shall be your best choice. On the other hand, pictures with cool,
sleek lines and neutral colours create warmth and a relaxing environment. If you wish to use art
to draw attention to a room, then you will have to pick a contrasting colour which will instantly
draw the eyes. For example, a striking red painting against a dark grey wall can give the space a
character that shouts bold and daring.

The next criterion would be to match the proportions of the artwork and the wall. While an
artwork may portray grandeur and luxury, it will do no good to your home if you do not measure
the walls to see if it would fit in with your design. One of the worst things that can happen is going
to the store and purchasing a piece that is too big or even too small. For the former, it may not fit
and make the room look overcrowded. For the latter, it may appear out of place in the room, as
though the art is just floating in the middle of a barren wall space.

Finally, an important factor to take into consideration is to select art that can increase your home
value, or play a dual role. Living in an Asian country, we have been told that Feng Shui is among
the most important element of the home. By choosing pieces that have Feng Shui elements in it,
it allows owners to enhance abundance, wealth, passion, and balance in life.

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 EXCLUSIVE LIVING -
ZENIA PARKHOMES
LIVING IN TRANQUILLITY
IN THE HEART OF TOWN

D esa ParkCity is a new residential and commercial development that has been the buzz
of many property owners and the industry in recent times. Tucked away in the suburbs
of Kuala Lumpur, the development boasts a picturesque landscape, beautifully-designed homes,
and well-guarded residences.

Desa ParkCity houses a number of residential developments; one of them being the high end
Zenia Parkhomes. Zenia is a gated and guarded vicinity that comprises of three different-by-
design parkhomes and condominiums. Developed by Perdana ParkCity, a subsidiary of Samling
Group, Zenia is well-planned with 73 two-storey parkhomes, 103 three-storey parkhomes, and 24
garden condominiums over 14.3 acres of land.

The DV Class Parkhomes are spacious, top-of-the range parkhomes with an innovative design
to allow living and dining room openings to the communal landscaped spaces.

The SV Class 2 & 3 Storey Parkhomes exude sensitivity while providing functional living spaces.
While some are modified to introduce an outdoor courtyard and double-volume space, others are
enhanced by economical space planning to cater to the needs of small families.

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 Top class facilities such as a swimming pool, clubhouse, private garden, and 24-hour
security serve to enhance the living experience of residents.

One of the unique appeals of Desa ParkCity is a large, beautiful lake situated in the middle
of the neighbourhood. This award-winning community lake is an idyllic spot for recreational
activities such as picnics, lake fishing, jogging, and kite-flying.

The Desa ParkCity Central Park offers a 17.2-ha expanse to allow plenty of recreational
activities. For other activities, a residents’ clubhouse is available; replete with a pavilion
lounge, swimming pools, tennis courts, badminton courts, a gymnasium, and a childcare
centre. A FIFA-size football field and two basketball courts are also built in the adjoining
sports centre.

The ParkCity offers a one-stop centre for residents to shop and dine. The Waterfront,
which is located at the centre of the township, offers plenty of stores, restaurants, cafes,
and spas.

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 EXCLUSIVE LIVING -
ZENIA PARKHOMES
CREATING VALUE IN OUR PROPERTY & COMMUNITY

“How can one ensure that their property maintains a high value over
the years? Without refute, the mantra ‘Location, location, location’
holds true in this aspect. However, equally important is the fact that
your property also derives much of its value from its neighbours.”

Andrew Tan, a real estate negotiator with Reapfield Properties provides his insights on how having the right
management can contribute to property price and value. His work focuses on investment grade and high-
end properties. Also serving as President of Zenia Joint Management Committee, Andrew talks about the
management strategy of the Zenia Parkhomes development in Desa ParkCity.

M anaging a strata title development such as Zenia comes with quite a number of challenges.
The concept of strata development is really about the standardisation of the property’s
façade. Its main intention is to avoid the risk of creating ‘property clusters’ that are a result of
individual lots undergoing different outdoor renovations over the years.

Your home or office lot’s value is quite significantly determined by the adjacent properties. To
manage this aspect, Zenia residents or Zenians as we call them, are bound by the Strata Land Title
Act. When purchasing their homes, Zenians sign the Deed of Mutual Convenant which requires
them to adhere to a few “house rules” – which includes regulations and guidelines on exterior
renovation among others.

The Zenia committee has enforced a strict policy in ensuring that all renovation works are
submitted for approval. Constant monitoring is also carried out to ensure that home owners are
following the ‘gameplan’. In any instance that the renovation veers out of specification or what
was previously approved, a stop-work order will be issued until the work is steered back into its
approved course. Certainly, the most important and effective way to ensure compliance lies in
gaining the owners’ buy-in to this strata concept.

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 LOCATION: Desa Parkcity
DEVELOPMENT: Zenia Park Homes
TYPE: DvA 3-storey Garden Deck
BUILT UP: 2,400 sq. ft.

global real estate firm, Knight Frank, as

the facilities management company. This
engagement will take effect from mid-2010
onwards.

It was a prudent decision as Knight Frank

holds a sound track record in this area and
provides a perfect fit for the vision of Zenia.
Partnering with Knight Frank is also a step in
the right direction for Zenia from a branding
perspective.

Community-building will increasingly

become a big thrust as Zenia matures.
We envision a very unique community
programme for Zenia which will go beyond
just casual neighbourly gatherings. As a
start, the committee has organised free table
tennis classes that are open to all Zenians.
We have gotten former national coach, Poo
Lap Tuck to teach the class. We also have
plans in place to organise a tournament
among residents of the other communities;
and there are many more exciting activities
that we have planned out for Zenians.

The idea is to put Zenia on the map – in

that of Desa ParkCity’s and beyond – to
stand out amongst other developments. We
aim to transcend beyond a place of brick
For the past one year since Zenia was rolled out, its management has fallen on the shoulders and mortars. The all-important draw factor
of the committee members who play an active role in the day-to-day operations. Zenia is the is the success in creating an exceptionally
first development in Desa ParkCity to take its management to the next level by engaging the close-knit community and exciting living.

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 REGULARS
CHIC LIVING

DOWN-TO-EARTH: The earthy palette of the living room works excellently

with the greenery that serves as a natural backdrop outside a large window.

A one-bedroom apartment in the bustling neighbourhood Mont Kiara is given a complete do-over. The
home owner constructed brick walls to bring a more down-to-earth sensibility to the house. This design
concept is also replicated in the bedroom. Dark wooden floor boards are also fitted to add elegance.

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 BRICK AND MORTAR: The brick wall feature in the bedroom and living area. To keep with the simplicity of the design
concept, the home owner uses furniture with clean lines.

The colour and finishing of the walls and floor are complemented by accents of light- and dark-coloured
furniture in the living room. With the relatively small unit, it was essential to design different sections of the house
in a seamless manner.

The design concept of the living area flows into the kitchen area; keeping consistency in the terms of colour
for the flooring and kitchen fixtures. The fluid flow of one section into another invariably gives an illusion of a
larger area.

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 REGULARS
OFFICE SPACE IN
BUKIT JALIL
CURRENT PROJECTS
To give readers a look at what is currently on the work table of Abode & Dwellings Interiors, we have
put together a visual montage for each development. Our first feature is a chic condo unit in Mont Kiara
that was recently completed. We also have three developments that are ongoing and have just been
conceptualised; they will be presented in 3D perspectives (stay tuned for our next issue in JULY 2010
to see photos of the completed work).

CLIENT:
Technology firm,
business owner in his mid-30s
OFFICE TYPE:
Four-storey office shop lot
AREA SIZE:
3200 sqft

A local technology firm gives its office

a facelift to create a work setting
that would accommodate staff on a
functional level, while also instilling
a stronger corporate identity in the
designs. To achieve this, the company’s Work stations Reception area
corporate colour is set against red
accent walls which also make the office
visually appealing. Functionality is
heightened with long tables that ease
meeting sessions and a comfortable
brainstorming room that encourages
the flow of ideas.

*The visuals are

artist impressions
in 3D perspective Brainstorming room Meeting room

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 OFFICE SPACE IN
JAYA ONE
Staff work stations

Conference room

CLIENT:
Consulting firm,
businessman in his early 30s
OFFICE TYPE:
Office suite unit in Jaya One,
Petaling Jaya
AREA SIZE:
1600 sqft

A business and technology consulting Director’s room

company is relocating to a new
office in the heart of Petaling Jaya.
Resonating with the company’s
polished corporate image, the new
office was conceptualised to depict an
industrial aesthetic. The office expanse
is dominated by a white palette and
incorporates an open-space layout.
The latter arrangement is effective in
allowing easier movement of staff and Entrance & Waiting Area
creating an all-inclusive environment.

*The visuals are

artist impressions
in 3D perspective

22 Filing Cabinet Area

 DATA CENTRE IN
CYBERJAYA

Reception area

CLIENT:
Technology firm,
businessman in his late 40s
OFFICE TYPE:
Data Center in Cyberjaya
AREA SIZE:
17,500 sqft

A data centre solutions company builds

yet another data centre in the heart of
Cyberjaya. A futuristic and state-of-
the-art facilities was conceptualised
to attract young entrepreneurs.
Entrance to server rooms
The elaborate curves throughout
the walkway and reception area
complement the futuristic look. Security
features plays an important role in the
design of the data centre to give a
sense of assurance for its clients.

Entrance to private suites Server room

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 HOME IN
SIERRA DAMANSARA

Master Bathroom

CLIENT:
Businessman in his 40s with family
OFFICE TYPE:
Three-storey detached house
AREA SIZE:
2800 sqft

The idea of using neutral hues is

appealing due to the homey effect it
exudes and its suitability for all ages
in a family. The owner of this home
wanted to achieve this for his mother
as well as his young children. The use
of earthy tones and wooden elements Living Room
in the home help create an ideal space
for both the elderly and young ones.

*The visuals are

artist impressions Dining & Kitchen Master Bedroom
in 3D perspective

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ABOUT
ABODE & DWELLINGS

T hey say that a home is not just made of walls and beams; but built with love and dreams. Abode &
Dwellings realises that the most amazing designs begin from a simple idea. An idea for individuals to be
inspired by the environment they occupy. An idea to create a space for people to achieve all that is possible
within that realm. An idea to elevate spaces to new heights. Abode & Dwellings helps capture these ideas and
translate lifestyle needs into beautiful designs that create a new universe of possibilities.

THE MAN BEHIND THE WHEEL

A good interior designer is one with good taste and an eye for beauty.
A great designer is one that has these attributes and the knowledge
of every element involved in building a functional spaces. Chong Mun Keong
is one man who possesses such qualities. Combining his talent, knowledge,
and propensity for design, he helms Abode & Dwellings as Director.

Starting his career in the field at a young age, Chong has spent a good
number of years establishing himself in the industry. He has worked closely
with several major corporations including manufacturers, construction firms,
and electrical companies. With almost 30 years of experience under his
belt, he has honed his skills of creating amazing homes and offices. The
knowledge he has garnered over the years contributes to his rich background
and familiarity with different fields – expertise that he brings to our clients’
table.

Chong has lent his craft in each of the designs featured in the Abode
& Dwellings Magazine. With boundless diversity and creativity, he helps
individuals conceptualize their ideas and create designs that suit each
distinct style.

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