Reveal 80+ Stunning Traditional Malaysian House Design Top Choices Of Architects

Traditional Malaysian House Designs

Traditional Malaysian house designs typically embody the traditional values and aesthetics of Southeast Asia. The distinctive architectural style of the homes, often based on influences from both indigenous and foreign cultures, is expressed through its elaborate detailing and construction, which is typically seen in the use of materials like wood, stone, and brick. Minangkabau-style homes, for example, are built on raised foundations, while Malay Rumah Batu designs display a fusion of Malay and Indian elements. Traditional Malay wooden house designs exude unique character and charm, while more modern Malay house designs and floor plans offer a contemporary twist on the classic Malaysian home; read on for our top 10 art deco house designs from Malaysia.

Minangkabau-Style Home

The Minangkabau-style home, or rumah adat Minangkabau, is a type of traditional house design from West Sumatra, Indonesia. Characterized by its two-tiered roof and carved wood, it is a prominent and popular feature in Malaysia. Minangkabau houses are usually built on a raised high foundation, and are constructed using a mixture of brick and stone. The distinctive two-tiered roof is said to resemble buffalo horns, and is an integral part of the traditional Minangkabau design. Furnishings and decorations in the Minangkabau-style house often feature bold, colorful patterns.

Traditional Malay Home Design

The traditional Malay Home Design typically features a single storey dwelling, often incorporating a courtyard. The most common materials used in their construction are wood, bamboo, and palm, and the exterior walls are often woven together with these materials to create an intricate pattern. Windows are either hinged or latticed, and the roof is often made from carved wood, held together by palm leaves and coconut fronds. This type of design is often seen in the traditional Malaysian kampungs.

Malay Rumah Batu Design

Malay Rumah Batu designs showcase a unique combination of Malay and Indian influences, with each featuring a distinct facade. Often seen in traditional Malaysian villages, these two-storey homes are constructed using bricks, and feature wooden doors, windows, and ceilings. The roof is typically constructed from clay tiles, and the exterior is often decorated with intricate carvings. Malay Rumah Batu houses create a cosy environment inside thanks to their small interior spaces.

Malay Home Design Pictures

Malay home design pictures feature traditional and modern homes alike, from rustic timber homes to picturesque clay tile roofs. The traditional homes often feature intricate carved wood and bamboo detailing, while modern designs may incorporate features like garages and balconies. Buildings are usually constructed from timber or brick, and often feature a two-tiered roof for ventilation. The prevailing color scheme is usually neutral, with earthy tones and pastel colors.

Malay Traditional Wooden House Design

Malay traditional wooden houses are iconic in Malaysia, often seen in kampung and villages across the country. The roofs are typically made from thatch, and the walls from woven bamboo and palm. Windows are either hinged or latticed, and the structure is held together by carved wood or coconut fronds. These wooden houses often boast intricate carving details on the exterior, adding unique character.

Malay Stilt House Design

Malay stilt houses incorporate a way of life that has been practiced in Malaysian villages for centuries. These unique dwellings are built on stilts, up to 5 meters off the ground. Usually constructed from wood or bamboo, the structure often features elaborately carved wood paneling which is unique to this type of house design. Raised stilt houses allow a mild breeze to enter from the lower level, providing a level of natural ventilation and cooling, which is much needed in the heat of the Malaysian climate.

Malay Kampung House Design

Malay Kampung houses are typically found in Malaysian villages, and are characterized by their rectangular shape and traditional roof. Often constructed from wood, palm, or bamboo, these simple and picturesque dwellings typically boast attractive elements like carved doors and intricate panels. The walls are typically woven together with bamboo and palm, and the roof made of clay tiles. A distinctive feature is the tropical fruit trees which are often planted around the façade, adding a unique charm to the property.

Traditional Malay House Design Malaysia

Traditional Malay house designs in Malaysia often feature a series of elements such as wooden walls, intricate carvings, and angled roofs. Common materials used for the construction of these traditional houses include timber, clay, stones, and brick. Generally, traditional Malay houses are low-rise, and the exterior is often decorated with various decorations such as dangling fronds or flowers, adding a unique charm to the atmosphere.

Traditional Malay House Features

Traditional Malay house plans often incorporate features such as a courtyard, an open-air verandah, and a metal roof. The balconies are commonly made of intricately carved wood, while the windows and doors are typically hinged and latticed. Other elements found in traditional Malay homes include a central courtyard, a small kitchen, and a living room. The interior walls are often decorated with elaborate carvings, giving the house a unique and distinctive character.

Malay House Designs and Floor Plans

Malay house designs and floor plans are typically built on a raised foundation, and can accommodate a variety of living arrangements. The most common layout consists of two or three bedrooms, an open-air verandah, a living room, and a central courtyard. Depending on the style of the home, the roof can either be pitched or flat. Buildings are usually constructed from timber or brick, and commonly feature intricately carved wood, vibrant wallpapers, and metal grills.