Home tour: A tropical terrace transformation in Kuala Lumpur

OTCQ Architects have reimagined a terrace house in Kuala Lumpur as a sustainable tropical haven

Located in Taman OUG, one of the Klang Valley's earliest suburbs, OTCQ Architects has transformed a corner terrace house into a home that exemplifies the essence of tropical living.

A reimagined space that marries simplicity with sustainability, the thoughtful design has created a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor living.

“We started with ‘removing’ rather than ‘adding’,” Oscar Tan, founder of OTCQ Architects, explains, describing the renovation strategy for the 4,123-sq-ft home.

Photo 1 of 2 The biophilic facade

Photo 2 of 2 A view from the street

The biophilic facade

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The original structure, a typical one-and-a-half-story house with four bedrooms, was stripped down to its essentials, particularly the oppressive pitched roof and the extensive car porch that once dominated the façade.

In their place, the designers have crafted an open, light-filled space that embraces its tropical surroundings.

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Photo 1 of 2 The biophilic facade

Photo 2 of 2 Metal gridwork for plants to grow into

The biophilic facade

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Transparent roof tiles introduce a playful dance of light in the double-height activity area, while strategically placed turbine ventilators ensure constant airflow throughout the house.

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Above The unassuming entrace

Above Generous overhangs for maximum shade

The unassuming entrace

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The material palette is deliberately restrained. “We stayed true to the material, using brick, concrete, and earth,” Tan notes.

Photo 1 of 3 The biophilic facade

Photo 2 of 3 Climbing plants were added

Photo 3 of 3 Mature trees were maintained

The biophilic facade

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The interplay of these elements is particularly striking in the living area, where concrete and brick flooring delineate spaces without the need for walls.

In the kitchen, a rammed earth counter with a polished concrete top showcases the raw beauty of natural materials.

Photo 1 of 2 Plants were incorporated inside the house as well

Photo 2 of 2 Brightly coloured artwork add personality

Plants were incorporated inside the house as well

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Perhaps the most captivating feature is the master bedroom’s shower screen. A descending S-curve concrete wall, it seamlessly integrates the bathroom functions while maintaining privacy.

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Above Exposed brickwork adds rustic charm

Above High ceilings make living in this home a breeze

Exposed brickwork adds rustic charm

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“It’s designed with ergonomic considerations," Tan proudly states, “The gradient of the descending height is based on general human height.”

Photo 1 of 2 The open plan living area

Photo 2 of 2 The terrace was thoroughly transformed

The open plan living area

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Sustainability was a key consideration in the redesign. Tan focused on passive design elements, paying particular attention to the sun’s path and prevailing winds.

A metal screen on the east façade, now adorned with climbing plants, acts as both a natural sun filter and a privacy screen.

Photo 1 of 3 Concrete and brick in the kitchen

Photo 2 of 3 Concrete and brick in the kitchen

Photo 3 of 3 Exposed brickwork adds rustic charm

Concrete and brick in the kitchen

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The homeowner, an expat who has lived in Malaysia for a decade, sought to create a tropical house with ample natural lighting, ventilation, and garden space.

Tan’s design not only meets these requirements but also educates on harmonious living with the regional climate.

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The master bedroom with concrete detailing

Photo 1 of 3 The master bedroom with concrete detailing

Photo 2 of 3 A softly curved divider

Photo 3 of 3 The open concept master bathroom

The master bedroom with concrete detailing

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As Tan reflects on the project, his satisfaction is evident. “Our satisfaction comes from witnessing the house and its owner start to develop a relationship,” he says.

The sight of the owner moving plants around and personalising the space brings him a deep sense of fulfilment.

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Credits

Photography

Lin Ho

Topics

Tropical home tour Malaysian architecture Sustainable living Terrace renovation Taman OUG Tropical design Eco living spaces Malaysian real estate Green home makeover Urban tropic

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