7 Modern Malaysian Homes Showcasing Islamic Design Influences

March 20, 2024

These homes feature a harmony of modern and traditional Islamic styles.

Islamic art and architecture are renowned for their intricate beauty and timeless elegance. This is one of the reasons why Muslim homeowners like to incorporate Islamic influences into their home design. Additionally, it can serve as a reminder of their beliefs, customs, and principles.

In this article, discover how Muslim homeowners are integrating Islamic elements into their modern homes, harmonising modern aesthetics with Islamic cultural heritage.

Explore: 6 Must-Haves For A Modern Muslim Home

1. A Moroccan-inspired landed home in Selangor

This gorgeous 1200 sqft landed home in Selangor is a beautiful example of a modern landed home, infused with Moroccan influences that resonate with the vibrant Islamic heritage.

View this project by Spacematic Studio

Spacematic Studio skillfully incorporated elaborate Islamic geometry, with the Moorish arch serving as the central feature behind the TV panel in the master bedroom. This effortlessly complements the polished Moroccan brass pendant lights and the geometric woodwork embellishing the built-in bed frame. Furthermore, a beautiful Moroccan tapestry in maroon colour adds a vibrant touch to the predominantly neutral-toned master bedroom.

View this project by Spacematic Studio

Over in the bathroom, walls showcasing tiles with a recurring trellis pattern, pays homage to the rich tradition of Islamic mosaic art.

View this project by Spacematic Studio

2. A minimalist-styled landed home in Selangor

Framed Quranic calligraphy is a common feature in Islamic homes, but if you’d like something a little more understated, consider displaying a simple artwork on open shelves, as demonstrated in this minimalist designed home. Despite its simplicity, such art can evoke feelings of tranquility and mindfulness.

View this project by Design House Solutions

Besides the calligraphic artwork, the homeowner also neatly stores and displays their Qurans on the open shelves. This practice aligns with Islamic teachings, which advise against storing holy books too close to the ground.

View this project by Design House Solutions

We also love the fact that this home is designed to accommodate Malaysia's tropical climate with minimal window treatment, promoting natural ventilation and airflow throughout the home. This design also allows natural light to illuminate the space during the day, creating a bright, serene, and cosy atmosphere.

View this project by Design House Solutions

3. A landed home in Melaka with a dedicated prayer area

Designating a specific area or room for daily prayers is a common feature in many Muslim homes. Just take a cue from this home where Klaasmen have transformed an unused space within the home into a dedicated prayer area, featuring a floor-to-ceiling cabinet that serves as a convenient space for the owners to neatly store their prayer mats and Qurans, among other things.

View this project by Klaasmen Sdn. Bhd.

Islamic influences are also evident in other areas of the house. In the master bedroom, the designer incorporated traditional craftsmanship from Islamic cultures, such as a Persian rug and beautiful gold-framed calligraphy featuring the names of Allah and the Prophet, displayed behind the home office. The gold-framed artwork complements the room well, as gold accents adorn the furniture and decor, lending the room a sophisticated feel.

View this project by Klaasmen Sdn. Bhd.

4. A modern-luxe landed home in Selangor

Gold is frequently used to adorn mosques, madrasas, and other sacred spaces in Islamic architecture, evoking a sense of reverence, majesty, and holiness. Hence, it comes as no surprise that Muslim homeowners like to incorporate gold details into their home designs. A prime example is this modern-luxe landed home in Selangor, where gold-framed Quranic verses adorn the entryway walls, setting a welcoming tone for guests.

View this project by Edge ID

Gold accents are also prominently featured throughout the home, from ornate light fixtures to intricately designed furniture and decorative elements. The use of gold adds a touch of glamour and richness, elevating the aesthetic appeal of each room and creating a cohesive theme of luxury.

View this project by Edge ID

5. A bungalow in Selangor designed for the hosting guests

Family plays a central role in Malaysian Muslim society, and homes are often designed to foster strong family bonds. This bungalow in Kelana Jaya is a prime example. It is designed in a way that provides opportunities for families and friends to gather, socialise, and strengthen community bonds, which is in accordance with Islamic teachings.

View this project by Blaine Robert Design

The common area of the house is designed to accommodate a spacious living room, a dry kitchen, and a dining area that can seat up to 12 people. The high ceiling and full-height design, create a welcoming open-air environment, making the space ideal for family gatherings, social events, and celebrations like Hari Raya.

View this project by Blaine Robert Design

In line with Islamic teachings that encourage congregational prayers, the designer has turned a room into a small surau (prayer hall), providing space for hosting small religious events such as tarawih prayers during Ramadan or Eid prayers during Hari Raya. The surau features neutral hues and floor-to-ceiling cabinets for storing prayer essentials. The minimalist colour scheme and decor minimise distraction, creating a serene atmosphere conducive to worship.

View this project by Blaine Robert Design

You can read about this modern bungalow home transformation here.

6. A bungalow in Perak with a blend of Victorian and Middle Eastern design

This home is a harmonious blend of Victorian-era and Middle Eastern design, reflecting the owner's favourite holiday destination, Piacenza, Italy, while incorporating elements that express his religious beliefs that are predominantly found in the Middle East.

View this project by Red Land Design

The house is adorned with an array of Italian design pieces, complemented by Persian rugs and calligraphy wall art. Additionally, there are small decorative items, such as a picture of the Kaaba and dome sculptures displayed on the built-in TV console unit, that serve as a visual statement of the owner's faith.

View this project by Red Land Design

The luxurious use of gold and white in the home is inspired by Islamic tradition and showcases the rich artistic and architectural heritage of Islamic civilization. Meanwhile, the high ceilings adorned with decorative mouldings, along with the chandeliers, pay tribute to the elaborate interiors of Victorian-era homes.

View this project by Red Land Design

7. A terrace in Selangor infused with industrial design

Muslim homes often emphasis natural materials to create a sense of tranquility and harmony within the environment. This terrace is a perfect illustration of this design approach.

View this project by Kotak Kreatif Design Studio

Kotak Kreatif Design Studio has transformed this home with an industrial design style, emphasizing a utilitarian aesthetic and incorporating materials such as metal, leather, and timber. The colour palette revolves around shades of black, grey, white, and earth tones, harmonising with the industrial theme and allowing the natural elements to shine.

View this project by Kotak Kreatif Design Studio

However, what truly sets this home apart is the large display of Quranic verses on the living room walls. It serves as the room’s focal point and a source of spiritual reflection, adding depth and meaning to the interior design.

View this project by Kotak Kreatif Design Studio

The prayer’s room, on the other hand, is well-lit and adorned with a Persian carpet, a sofa and coffee table, a low-height cabinet, intricate latticework, and framed Quranic verses. These elements come together to create a serene and peaceful atmosphere for performing daily prayers or reading a good book.

View this project by Kotak Kreatif Design Studio

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