Positively Palatial

Blessed with scenic views and lush vegetation, it is no wonder that Labuan is referred to as ‘the pearl of Borneo’. As with numerous other tourist destinations across the globe, many consider it to be an ideal place to live and dream of putting down roots or retiring there. For this particular homeowner, that fantasy is a reality and they naturally wanted it to live up to their idea of a dream home. The designers tackled the task with great care and professionalism, drawing on the owner’s love for the finer things in life to create a truly luxurious abode that is an experience all on its own.

Upon passing through the solid wood double door framed by black marble, residents and visitors will find themselves in an expansive foyer. Its large grey circular sofa sets, brass glass-top coffee tables and eye-catching overhead light fixtures are highlighted by the primarily white palette used here. This includes the white floor tiles and the walls which have been covered with white paint and stretches of white marble.

The rooms further inside are no less extravagant, each one separated from the other by either a set of double doors or an equally impressive looking single door. Regardless, the crown jewel of the residence undoubtedly has to be the main living room which retains the foyer’s palette but features more splashes of colour that liven it up. The grey traditional sofa set here has been paired with an orange recliner and two coffee tables with black glass tops and fish scale-patterned metal frames. Adding another welcome touch of vibrancy is the yellow patterned rug at the centre although the most outstanding feature has to be the water wall off to the side next to a zebra-striped wall. Meanwhile, delicate pendant lights hanging from the double-volume ceiling illuminate the room with help from some unusual geometric lights on the walls.

Interestingly, the dining room has its own brand of eccentricity with its unusual-patterned upholstered dining chairs which accompany a round white marble dining table. Adding to this uniqueness is the fact that black floor tiles were used instead of white and one wall is covered by a mirror with white bars and lights running criss-cross over it in an irregular manner. In contrast, the kitchen follows a simpler design with its most noteworthy elements being the geometric wall and the criss-cross overhead lighting.

Upstairs, each individual room sports its own unique personality which is creatively and successfully expressed through the use of very different design choices and colour schemes. One bedroom invokes the feeling of living in a log cabin thanks to the strips of upholstery which visually resemble pieces of wood covering the walls. On the other end of the spectrum, another bedroom has an almost futuristic look to it with its preference for a clean and crisp monochrome design with the occasional splash of bright orange and an unusual set of mirrors built into the wall right above the headboard.