Studio Pandan proudly presents the transformation of a 517 sqft serviced apartment into a culturally rich, modern stay for Airbnb guests. Located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu’s tourist district, this sea-facing unit blends Malaysian Modern Traditional design with practical features for short-term rentals. Ideal for families and professionals, this renovation focused on maximizing comfort, cultural charm, and rental potential—all within a 30-day timeline.
A Location That Sells Itself—And a Design That Stands Out
The Shore is perfectly situated for both business and leisure travelers, offering easy access to the airport and direct international flights—especially from Korea. With a growing Korean community and tourist interest, we curated an aesthetic that would appeal to global guests while celebrating Malaysian heritage.
We proposed a Malaysian Modern Traditional style—combining clean, modern comfort with locally inspired elements like woven art, rattan furniture, and patterns unique to Sabah.
Meeting the Client’s Goals with Function and Style
To create a more open, connected layout, we removed the central partition and sliding door. This instantly improved the flow of the space, enhancing natural lighting and visibility—perfect for families with kids.
We added:
- A practical open-concept wardrobe system that maintains brightness
- A pull-out bed under the queen-size frame to increase guest capacity
- Full furnishings and handpicked décor items for a cozy, welcoming vibe
- Professional photography for listing and marketing purposes
This thoughtful design now accommodates up to 4 guests comfortably—ideal for short-term stays.
Bring Your Vision to Reality with Studio Pandan
Your journey to an inspiring space begins here. Complete our online brief with your furniture plan, preferences, and budget. We’ll set up a call to discuss your project in detail!
Key Features That Reflect Sabah’s Cultural Beauty
What makes this Airbnb renovation truly special is its local heart:
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Made-in-Malaysia Furniture
Using Sabah-sourced rattan and working alongside the Orang Asli community, we custom-built furniture pieces that are as meaningful as they are functional. -
Traditional Weaving Art
Collaborations with the Kadazan Minokok tribe brought authentic woven art into the space, each item telling a story through texture and symbolism. -
Sabahan Fabrics & Flavors
Throw pillows made with exclusive Sabahan textiles and the display of local snacks give guests a warm welcome—and a genuine taste of Malaysian hospitality.
Overcoming Supply and Access Challenges
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Material Sourcing & Shipping
Some items—including specialty paint (SKK)—were unavailable locally and had to be shipped from Peninsular Malaysia, adding complexity and cost. Despite this, the project was delivered on time. -
Limited Furniture Options
With few local suppliers, we custom-made pieces using locally available materials—supporting the economy and showcasing local craftsmanship. -
Wardrobe Placement
The challenge was to add practical storage without blocking light. We solved this with an open, modular wardrobe system that blends in beautifully with the rest of the room.
ESG Recognition: Sustainable & Community-Driven Design
This project proudly received an ESG award, acknowledging our efforts in:
- Using locally sourced, eco-friendly materials
- Employing 100% local labor, with no foreign workers
- Supporting indigenous crafts and small businesses
Even subtle architectural details—like board-and-batten accents—were painted to match the walls, giving a nod to British colonial influences while staying true to a modern Malaysian feel.
Design That Enhances Guest Experience
We know that successful short-term rentals rely on more than just aesthetics. That’s why we included:
- Washer with dryer
- Microwave & induction cooker
- Fridge, smart TV, Wi-Fi, air-conditioning
- Digital door lock for easy guest access and secure check-ins
These essentials boost guest comfort, increase 5-star reviews, and raise the unit’s rental appeal.
Before and After: A Space with Story and Soul
From a closed-off layout to a bright, open retreat, this unit now tells a story through its design. The white walls and neutral backdrop let the furniture and woven art shine, while the clever use of space makes it easy to stay, relax, and feel at home.
Let Studio Pandan Elevate Your Airbnb or Rental Property
Whether you’re preparing a vacation home or want to boost your property’s market value, Studio Pandan offers expert interior design services that blend culture, comfort, and sustainability. We handle every detail from design to delivery—so you don’t have to.
