The remodelling exercise has completely transformed the simple and unassuming end-of-terrace building, featuring a small extension made with natural materials that conceal a rich inner life. Rudimentary additions and modifications over the years left the existing house cramped and gloomy. It had low ceilings and beams, typical of the period’s housing developments. The challenge was to modernise spaces by working within the tolerance of the existing structure. Environmental improvement was a crucial factor, and the aim was to allow more daylight into the interior spaces and improve the airflow. 

The remodelling exercise involves stripping the existing house of its previous modifications and additions to its primary structure. This, along with relocating the staircase to the edge of the main living space, creates an open yet cohesive feel to the ground floor for a family to come together. The living, dining, and kitchen areas are reoriented towards each other but gently separated by a double-height central space, where the original staircase was located. The relationship with the natural light was pivotal to the scheme, and a skylight at the top of this double-height space bathes the interior with soft daylight of ever-changing quality.

Project Information & Credits:

Location: Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia

Status: Built

Completion Year: 2024

Total floor area: 190 m²

Extended floor area: 50 m²

Photography by David Yeow Photography

Architect: Eleena Jamil Architect

Architectural Design team: Eleena Jamil, Yow Pei San, Adam Aziz Marzuki, Kirrthana Nanthini