id Tips: Know Your Home Styles

Browse through four of the most popular home styles to learn what is involved in each of them, how they differ and how to create them.

Tropical Contemporary

Designed by | Choo Gim Wah Architect

The Syle
While many people use the terms Modern and Contemporary interchangeably, contemporary themes usually refer to current architectural styles that seek to establish a strong connection between the indoors and outdoors while emphasizing the use of energy efficiency ideas, sustainable materials, lots of natural light as well as recycling or upcycling non-toxic materials.

The Application
In Malaysia, as a way to respond to our climate and lifestyle, the contemporary style is given a tropical twist. The Tropical Contemporary style focuses on a collection of different ideas that ensure healthier and greener living through the use of eco-friendly materials. Homes are usually designed to let in natural light and air along with integration of energy-efficient elements like  rainwater harvesting.

Urban Chic

Designed by | PDI Design & Associates

The Style
Urban interiors are versatile in terms of space and design to allow plenty of freedom for the owners to rest, play and sometimes work at home. They usually feature non-traditional home materials and design features. There are many urban homes these days that include objects  which are more traditionally used in an industrial sense.

The application
Due to its versatile design which fits both small and large homes, urban styles are usually favoured amongst those who live in high rise condo units. Today, many are opting for Urban Chic styles which incorporate a variety of trendy materials, colours and design features. Floor plans are kept spacious with open kitchens and glass walls are often used in lieu of solid ones. Furniture and storage units are also custom-made to fit in different requirements within a space.

Modern Classic

Designed by | S:Lab 10

The Style
When it comes to classical styles, design concepts usually revolve around order, symmetry and balance which are inspired by the ideals of the Greek and Roman empires. It is refined and elegant, with a bespoke touch that exudes history and sophistication. This style is timeless and has an opulent appeal that is achieved through a composition of ornate details and rich decorative features.

The application
Classical styles are now toned down to ensure a cleaner, sleeker look, resulting in a Modern Classic theme instead. One of the primary elements of classical style is creating a strong statement feature around which visual balance is achieved; for example a feature wall with an ornate mirror placed in the centre of a room, flanked by matching classical furniture. In Modern Classic styles, focal points are also created, but to give them a modern touch, colours like neutral tones and off-whites against clean and streamlined backdrops are used.

Read more: Colour Of The Year 2017

Warm Minimalist

Designed by | Space Matrix

The Style
In the late 1980s, minimalist design gained popularity in New York and London. At that time, designers from these countries began incorporating white elements and minimal objects into spaces to achieve simplicity. A style prevalent until today, minimalist design, at its most basic is about stripping everything non-essential and superfluous so only the most essential qualities remain.

The Application
As the minimalist trend evolves over the years, it takes on a warmer appeal that shies away from cold, clinical, too-white spaces. Minimal furniture is still used, but livelier materials are now incorporated along with plenty of natural light to create a Warm Minimalist style instead. Often wood is used generously complimented by creamy whites.

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