CJ Residence
Year of Completion / March 2018
Location / Residensi Bukit Kecil, Bukit Mertajam, Penang.
Square Meters / 76m2, 800sqft
Design Lead / ChunJen Chiam
Design Management / ChunJen Chiam
Client Brief
The client sought an interior design for their private residence, encompassing the living, dining, and kitchen areas. The desired style was to reflect a "Vintage Touch" concept, where 1970s Japanese and British modernist influences would be harmoniously combined to evoke a nostalgic yet sophisticated ambiance. The brief requested the integration of modern functionality within a retro framework, with materials like natural woods, ceramics, and luxurious upholstery. The design should retain a unique, eclectic character while maintaining cohesion across all spaces.
Challenge
The primary challenge of this project was to seamlessly merge two distinct stylistic influences— Japanese minimalism and British boldness—within a functional, modern residence. The open plan of the living, dining, and kitchen required careful zoning to differentiate the spaces without creating harsh separations. Additionally, balancing the muted tones of Japanese design with the vibrant colours and patterns of British 1970s design called for a thoughtful selection of materials, textures, and colours. Functional aspects, such as the kitchen layout and lighting, had to align with modern standards while supporting the vintage aesthetic.
Concept
The "Vintage Touch" concept draws inspiration from the 1970s era, particularly blending Japanese and British modernist design. The low-profile furniture with simple geometric shapes is reminiscent of Japanese interiors, while the rich textures, bold patterns, and floral influences pay homage to British sensibilities of the same era. The colour palette revolves around muted earth tones and natural materials like wood and marble, contrasted by lively accents in the form of upholstery and decor elements. This fusion creates a sense of timelessness, where the past meets the present in a harmonious and nostalgic setting.
Layout
The open-plan layout includes a dining area that flows into the living room, with the kitchen situated at the back. This arrangement promotes fluid movement and enhances the communal feel of the home. The living area features a combination of plush seating and low-profile furniture, with a strong visual focus on the brick accent wall and wood-paneled ceiling, both highlighting the vintage influence. The dining area is centered around a large marble-topped table, surrounded by vintageinspired chairs with rattan backs, creating a cozy yet formal setting. The kitchen maintains an efficient working triangle, with custom cabinetry providing ample storage, and a large island offering additional workspace and a social hub.
Implementation
The implementation of the design began with a focus on material selection to create the desired vintage yet modern ambiance. Natural wood was chosen for the cabinetry, wall paneling, and ceiling details, contributing to the warmth of the spaces. Marble was selected for the dining table and countertops, adding a touch of luxury while connecting to the vintage theme. Lighting played a crucial role in enhancing the mood, with recessed lights in the kitchen providing functionality, while soft spotlights in the living and dining areas highlighted the textures and architectural details. The upholstery featured both neutral tones and bold colours to tie together the contrasting design influences.
Details
The design details reflect the 1970s modernist crossover, with a careful mix of Eastern and Western influences. The dining chairs feature a rattan backing, a traditional element common in both Japanese and British interiors, while their frames are crafted from solid wood with a slightly distressed finish to enhance the vintage feel. The kitchen cabinetry is sleek and minimal, yet the use of warm wood and brushed metal handles adds a retro touch. In the living room, a focal wall of brick provides texture and depth, complemented by a plush, velvet-covered lounge chair, reflecting the British flair for opulence.
The ceiling features wood-paneled grid patterns that are reminiscent of traditional Japanese architecture, creating a visual link between the spaces while enhancing the vintage-modern concept. Additionally, art pieces such as abstract floral paintings bring in a burst of colour, aligning with the 1970s British influence.
Conclusion
This project successfully bridges two distinct cultural aesthetics, creating a home that feels both nostalgic and contemporary. By combining Japanese minimalism with British boldness, the design encapsulates the essence of 1970s modernism while integrating modern-day functionality. The seamless layout, rich material palette, and attention to vintage-inspired details contribute to a cohesive, inviting, and sophisticated interior that resonates with the client’s vision of a "Vintage Touch."
