Somerset


Client: See Hoy Chan
Location: Damansara Uptown, Kuala Lumpur
Project: Somerset Serviced Residences
Description: To design 200+ fully furnished serviced suites, common areas and facilities
Our role: Lead designer, space planning, artwork selection, décor styling


Somerset Damansara Uptown is one of the latest developments in the Ascott Limited portfolio. We designed all serviced suites and common areas, in line with the prestigious Ascott image, achieving a feel that is both comfortable and professional. Our emphasis was to create an environment that feels like home away from home.

A 24 storey serviced residence with 211 fully furnished units, is set up as an asset to Uptown Damansara to strengthen the community’s businesses and to draw in new life. It was designed to sit alongside Starling Mall, thus providing guests with facilities and conveniences during their stay. Targeted at business and leisure travelers, this serviced residence was designed to be home, a place of warmth and rest.

An intimate transfer lobby with a pleasant waiting area was created on the Ground Floor. Guests are then led up to a spacious and light Reception Lobby on the sixth floor. Full height glazing on one side allows plenty of natural light and views of the adjacent roof garden from Starling Mall. Local pattern play on the rug, Ikat throw cushions and wall covering were selected to lend softness to the otherwise modern, straight cut lines of the wall cladding. Low hanging pendant lighting and comfortable sofas create closeness within the double volume height space.

A choice of Cremo Marikata marble floor and the timber paneled wall run continuously throughout the expanse of the lobby and on to the reading lounge, linking the two as extensions of one another. A feature wall cladding of timber grains and tinted grey mirror extends from the floor to the ceiling to cleverly hide a column within. A wall of marble with lighting details provide a backdrop to the concierge counter.

Further in is the more discreet resident’s lounge, which has a view of the pool deck and is equipped with a pantry. The lounge’s intimate setting is accentuated by the timber cladded ceiling which floats above the long twelve seater volakas marble table, returning as a backdrop to the entertainment area.

A variety of seating configurations allow for flexible use. Rows of armchairs flank the left side to avail of natural light, and the computer stations on the other. Floor lamps have dual light temperature selections providing the option for functionality or warmth. Longer periods of study and relaxation were a large consideration to the design team and the result is an extremely conducive setting. Facing the playground is the indoor gymnasium, located adjacent to the self-operated launderette.

A dedicated kids play area is also part of the facilities offered. Definitely a dream come true for most, a castle backdrop is present, along with a little alcove. A perfect place for the young to make new friends and to let their imaginations run wild together. Adorable, custom built bunny chairs are a favourite even among the adults that drop by. Children can also amuse themselves in the play area or the pool while adults relax, enjoy a swim or even hit the gym.

Upstairs in the serviced suites, warm walnut tones were chosen to dominate clean interiors. Neutral tones were selected for their timeless appeal, suiting a variety of guest’s personalities. Decorative accent colours punctuate the rooms; cushions and throws paired with custom, vibrant art pieces inspired by local elements that contextualise the contemporary setting of the overall development. While most suites incorporate an open layout for the living and kitchen of one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments, the studio has a complete pantry that can be neatly hidden with a sliding door. Ornaments sourced from local craftsmen act as a preview to Kuala Lumpur’s culture and history.