Living rooms for Malaysian homes

A small home doesn't need to be limiting. This chic, modern living room is just one corner of a stylish flat that measures less than 80 square metres. The design is comfortable and practical, and would be perfect for any inner-city apartment. Just remember the ceiling fan for hot, muggy days.

This luxurious living room by Klang-based interior architects Design Spirits combines everything a Malaysian home needs. 

Wooden beams add texture and intrigue to the ceiling, traditional wicker furniture pays homage to generations of local craftsmen, while the overall structure of the room is unashamedly modern and Hollywood. It's the perfect blend of ideas for well-off Klang residents.

Take influence from Japanese wabi sabi principles by stripping back the decor and keeping it minimal. A buffed concrete wall lends this space a sophisticated industrial vibe, without being too rough and ready.

Malaysians know how to live it large, and this Klang home really takes that secret decadent streak to extremes. Shimmering white walls and futuristic curves create a light and airy space, which is cleverly broken up by an illuminated mezzanine level. And just look at all those seats to choose from – you'd never be short of space when entertaining family or friends.

This laid-back, budget friendly living room is an ideal style template for students and families alike. Fashionable without being fussy, it has all of the latest gadgets and a modern, slick appearance.

Have you ever wanted to let your imagination run riot in your home? This open plan living space takes inspiration from retro shapes and forward thinking design to create a space-age salon that also has space for a dining and kitchen area.

Neutral tones will always be big news in fashion, and young Malaysian professionals have been quick to jump on this Korean-inspired trend. White walls provide a suitable base for a medley of monochrome. Choose quality textiles, a mixture of textures and play around with light and dark grey shades to recreate this beautiful room.

If you've got it flaunt it, baby! Don't cover up large windows with blinds or heavy curtains. Instead, work with this fantastic source of natural light – especially if you're high up in a city apartment – by choosing pale wall colours and simple furniture that will further illuminate the space.

This industrial living room is easier to achieve than you might think. Strip the wallpaper, combine concrete with pale, unvarnished wood, and let plants trail from shelf to floor. Just make sure there's enough natural light in the room, and you'll be good to go.

Low-slug furniture, clean white walls and a couple of quirky details –  this living room design has bags of personality without relying on clutter to add character. Compulsive hoarders, take note!

A beautiful balcony is every Malaysian's right. Why not make the most of this slice of outdoor space by turning it into an extension of your living room? 

Buy furniture that looks similar to the things you already have in your living room, and lay it out in a cosy, welcoming arrangement. Just remember to buy waterproof cushions, otherwise rainy season will come along and wreck your fancy new outdoor living room!

All-white is all-right. A colourrful home isn't necessary when your living room can be this calming.

Scandinavian style is popular all over the world, and it's a trend that has been co-opted by young, style-conscious Malaysians. Make this look your own by mixing picture walls and mid-century furniture with tropical potted plants and pictures from local artists.

This living room could have been dreamt up by an angel. The white walls are illuminated by soft, pastelly lights, a plush rug adds warmth and cosiness to the space, and the furniture is modern and light as a feather while still hearkening back to traditional Malaysian design principles? Could this be the ideal Malaysian living room template? We certainly think so.

If you liked this article, check out: The art of subtlety – inspirations from a Japanese house.