Home tour: Penang bungalow transformation creates resort-inspired living
Photo 1 of 3 Overhead view of 30-foot mosaic-tiled swimming pool with German stone feature wall and tropical garden landscaping.
Photo 2 of 3 Outdoor living perspective showcasing curved pool edge and strategic plantings that create privacy within gated community
Photo 3 of 3 Striking limestone-clad facade with resort-style balcony featuring tropical plants
The materiality speaks to deliberate choices: imported marble flooring anchors the main level, custom veneer finishes warm the cabinetry, and sintered stone extends from interior spaces to the outdoor barbecue area.
The neutral beige and cream palette capitalises on natural light, reducing energy consumption throughout the day.
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Photo 1 of 4 The living room features curved modular seating, bespoke wooden shelving and a textured white accent wall
Photo 2 of 4 Contemporary living room with textured wall treatment, circular LED pendant light and bespoke curved seating in neutral Aman-inspired palette
Photo 3 of 4 A serene Penang living room featuring a textured wall, wooden accents and a minimalist furniture arrangement.
Photo 4 of 4 Contemporary open-plan living area with sculptural ceiling fixture, textured wall treatment and floating media console in neutral palette
The outdoor space serves as the property's defining element.
'The 30-foot swimming pool, adorned with custom beige mosaic tiles, is undoubtedly my favourite feature of the home,' Chuah said. 'Set against a striking backdrop of sculptural beige marble, the entire scene radiates understated sophistication and timeless serenity.'
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Photo 1 of 4 Open-plan dining area with limestone table flowing to outdoor spaces through full-height sliding glass doors
Photo 2 of 4 Layered lighting design with fabric pendants illuminating bespoke limestone dining table and artisanal ceramic vessels in neutral dining space
Photo 3 of 4 Open-concept kitchen and dining area with limestone island, fabric pendant lighting and Japanese-inspired slatted cabinetry
Photo 4 of 4 Seamless open-plan living space with textured white feature wall, custom pendant lighting and Aman-inspired furniture selection
This pool area is framed by a 30-foot-tall feature wall clad in German Solnhofen limestone in varying sizes. 'Its rich texture evokes a refined resort ambience, seamlessly complementing the pool, deck, and clubhouse to create a cohesive outdoor experience,' he explained. 'A simple façade cladding which made a world of difference.'
Sputnik Forest's landscaping enhances the waterfront setting with strategic plantings that provide privacy while preserving the site's openness—a response to both the tropical climate and the family's desire for a private retreat.
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Above Bespoke kitchen cabinetry featuring slatted wood details, integrated recessed handles and artisanal vessels against travertine backsplash
Above Aman-inspired dining space with limestone table, designer pendant lighting and neutral palette
Inside, the home strikes a balance between shared and private spaces. The kitchen, completely reimagined for Jocelyn, functions as a gathering hub.
Michael's custom-designed 'man cave' offers personal space. Furniture from Timeless Design throughout the residence provides durability without compromising aesthetics.
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Photo 1 of 3 Monolithic limestone island with integrated sink complements pale oak cabinetry in this minimalist kitchen
Photo 2 of 3 Minimalist kitchen featuring premium veneer cabinetry and brushed metal fixtures in Penang waterfront home renovation
Photo 3 of 3 Bespoke kitchen cabinetry featuring slatted wood details, integrated recessed handles and artisanal vessels against travertine backsplash
Environmental considerations extend beyond natural lighting.
'We sourced eco-friendly materials, such as Lamitak laminates with Singapore Green Label certification, to align with sustainable practices,' said Chuah.
Read more: 9 greenest skyscrapers in Asia
Photo 1 of 4 Contemporary bedroom sanctuary with bespoke wood panelling, integrated storage and sheer drapery maximising natural light
Photo 2 of 4 Minimalist home office corner with floating shelves, ceramic vessel and natural light optimizing the neutral palette.
Photo 3 of 4 Light-filled workspace featuring a bleached wood desk, a contemporary dome lamp and custom joinery
Photo 4 of 4 Bleached wood wardrobe with recessed handles and limestone-lined display niche showcasing dried floral arrangement in master suite entryway
For Chuah, whose Nevermore Group is among Penang's established design studios, the project's success manifested in the family's response.
'The most rewarding moment was witnessing the family truly embrace their new space—the children delighted by the pool and outdoor areas, the wife beaming in her stunning new kitchen, and the client proudly enjoying his personal man cave,' he said. 'It brought us immense satisfaction knowing we had delivered not just a project, but a home tailored to their dreams.'
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