It’s easy to see why Tuty Emily Abdul Rahim’s favourite part of the house is her kitchen.
The black-and-white floor tiles form a chic contrast against the leafy greens in her backyard, which has been specially fashioned into a mini white and green oasis.
There, breeze blocks – or patterned concrete blocks – add charm to the garden wall while ensuring privacy and ventilation.
“My favourite (space) is definitely our kitchen, which overlooks the garden. The usage of the folding door creates the flexibility for the space to be converted from indoor to outdoor. It makes our home look bright and spacious even though it’s an intermediate lot,” shared Tuty Emily Abdul Rahim, 42.
“We wanted a connection with the outdoors. What I love most about the area is that it blurs the line between the interior and exterior space.
“When we reach home, we don’t feel confined. The greenery and the view add a sense of calmness and peacefulness to the home,” added Tuty Emily, who works with a financial institution.
Her house was selected recently by @ighometourmalaysia – a local home tour group on Instagram hosted by home decor enthusiasts to inspire one another and share ideas on home design and decor – under the theme #sinkarea.
Tuty Emily elaborated on her kitchen design, which features marble-patterned quartz stone countertops and basketweave mosaic tiles.
“We wanted a classic and timeless look for the kitchen, yet still feel modern. We went with a farmhouse sink and bridge faucet to get the classic look and paired it up with a modern pendant light and wall scones so that the aesthetics are not too farmhouse-y,” said Tuty Emily, who shares her home decor journey on Instagram.
“I love the classic look of the faucet. I think a gold bridge faucet adds a touch of romance to the space.
“The goal was not to have a typical kitchen layout for intermediate houses. We wanted the kitchen to be a bright, open and visually uncluttered workspace, a place where we can hangout as a family and to entertain,” she added.
Tuty Emily has also put careful thought into maximising the storage options there.
“Organised storage space is really important especially when you have a small kitchen. You need to plan ahead as to where to store your appliances to reduce countertop clutter. I’m happy with what I have because it is fully functional and just enough for our family,” added Tuty Emily.
Her 1,986sq ft (184.5sq m) double-storey house, located in Sepang, Selangor, is a four-bedroom and four-bathroom abode.
Tuty Emily went for an Organic Modern style for the living spaces, opting for a white interior which is interspersed with cosy wood furniture.
“White has and always been my colour of choice but I am also leaning towards neutral colours these days.
“You can see a lot of woven and warm wood furniture, as the Organic Modern interior uses organic materials such as wood, rattan and jute. The usage of earth tones and neutral colours is also what attracts me to this concept,” she explained.
In the near future, Tuty Emily intends to spruce up the upper level of the house, which includes the bedrooms and family area.
“We have not started the project yet. We are still in the planning and researching phase.”
She shares a few tips for homeowners when it comes to decor and renovations.
“Focus on what is important for the family. Trends change and so do our needs. Our taste may evolve in the future too. Try not to get easily influenced by the latest trends.
“Some decorations may look good on someone else’s home but may not be suitable for our home. Our home should be a reflection of our personality and family style. It should be where everyone feels safe, comfortable and happy.
“Do not strive too much for perfection. Embrace the imperfections and just enjoy the process of creating a home that is uniquely yours,” she said.