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Staffield House is a concept home designed with one main purpose in mind: to serve as a perfect weekend and holiday retreat. The owners, who have a nearby orchard, wanted a space where their family could gather, especially during the famous durian season. This house isn’t just about the fruit—it’s about creating a comfortable, spacious environment where family and friends can come together, enjoy good food, and make lasting memories.

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The Concept

Durian season, which lasts for about a month, is a time for celebration and togetherness. The house needed to be more than just a home; it needed to be a place where the family could host a durian party or a BBQ cookout with ease. With long, warm days spent in the orchard, the house had to provide a relaxing and cooling refuge where everyone could unwind after a tiring day under the hot sun.

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The Layout

With a 3000 square foot footprint, Staffield House is compact but functional—perfectly designed for family gatherings and relaxation. The home is a 1.5-story design, with three guest rooms, a master bedroom, and a spacious living area complete with a swimming pool. Whether it’s a day of relaxation or an evening of entertainment, the house has ample space to accommodate family and friends, making it the ideal spot for gatherings.

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The Design: Southeast Asian Contemporary with a Traditional Malaysian Touch

The design of Staffield House draws inspiration from Southeast Asian contemporary architecture while embracing traditional Malaysian elements. The house marries the clean lines and open spaces of modern design with the rich textures, materials, and cultural heritage that define Malaysian homes.

The house is made up of two blocks. The front block is covered with latticework, which adds a sense of privacy while reflecting traditional Malaysian architecture. The intricate lattice design—known as ‘kecil-kecil’ or “small holes” in Malay—is a traditional element often used in Malaysian homes, especially in the tropical climates, as it allows for ventilation while providing shade and privacy.

This first block houses two guest rooms and the swimming pool. The swimming pool, which is a focal point of the home, blends seamlessly into the outdoor landscape, allowing the family and guests to enjoy nature while keeping cool during the heat of the day.

The second block is larger and houses the living and dining areas, as well as the master bedroom. The design of the living and dining spaces incorporates Southeast Asian principles, creating a high-ceiling open-plan layout that encourages airflow and keeps the space cool throughout the day. This focus on natural cooling reduces the need for air conditioning, saving energy while embracing the breezy, tropical climate.

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Embracing the Outdoors

One of the most significant aspects of Southeast Asian homes is the connection between the indoors and outdoors. Staffield House takes full advantage of this principle with expansive windows and open spaces that allow natural light to flood the interior. The house is designed to offer sweeping views of the surrounding golf course, providing a calming and tranquil backdrop to family activities.

The lush greenery around the house also enhances the connection to nature, allowing for a more relaxed and peaceful environment. The use of local materials, such as wood and bamboo, further emphasizes the traditional Malaysian aesthetic while maintaining a contemporary look.

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Thoughtful Entrances

Staffield House has two entrances to ensure ease and privacy. The first entrance is from the covered porch, which also features a storage and laundry room/restroom. This clever design allows the owners to clean up and store things after a long day in the orchard before entering the house—keeping things neat and tidy. From here, they can also easily access the pantry and kitchen, making unloading groceries or items from the orchard a breeze.

The second entrance is located at the front of the house and leads directly to the guest rooms. This allows guests to come and go freely without disturbing the main living areas, providing them with more independence and privacy.

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A Harmonious Blend of Relaxation, Modernity, and Tradition

Overall, Staffield House embodies a perfect blend of modern Southeast Asian living and traditional Malaysian charm. The house is a seamless fusion of sleek contemporary design with cultural touches that honor the rich history and heritage of Malaysia. The spacious design, privacy-focused features, and natural cooling elements make it a home that fosters togetherness and relaxation while staying connected to the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Whether it’s a quiet day in the orchard or a lively durian party, Staffield House offers the perfect backdrop for every occasion, providing a comfortable, culturally rich environment where family and friends can enjoy one another’s company in style.

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