
ATEFEH ARAB
INTERIOR ARCHITECT & DESIGNER
My story
I graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering and worked for a road construction company for seven years before realizing that my true passion lay elsewhere. I was designer in my soul.
I decided to follow my dream, in 2010 by enrolling into UCSI University in Malaysia to earn my Bachelor of Interior Architecture.
That is when I began my Interior Design journey.
As a student I won several awards for school projects, such as Most Promising Student, Nippon Paint Colorful design and Best Canvas Painting.
After graduation I joined Palladio Interiors Sdn Bhd in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and have worked there for six years until January 2020.
I started with the best team and had the chance to be involved with several projects, all involving different concepts. Sooner than expected, I became a Senior Designer and given the authority to lead projects from start to finish.
At Palladio I had the freedom to grow and to develop my dream. They company leadership noticed my innate talent for conceptual design, my multi-tasking spirit and my passion for my work .
I am a Post-Modernist designer by nature and I love to incorporate a combination of past and present in my design idea, and I don’t mind adding a touch of boldness to my designs, that is what makes me stand out as a designer.
I have never stopped chasing my dreams and I feel this is just the beginning.
FEATURED PROJECTS
BURNIN PIT
Interior Design company : Palladio Interiors Sdn. Bhd.
GOLD AWARD WINNER OF MIID (Malaysia Institute of Interior Design)REKA 2018.
DESIGN EXCELLENT FOR FOOD & BEVERAGE 2018.
Located of the bustling corner of a well-known square, this restaurant's roots are Southern American inspired and the menu celebrates 'low and slow' smoky BBQ flavors with local Malaysian notes.
The design speaks with the exterior and interior in mind. As the restaurant sits on a corner facing the main road, there is a high volume of oncoming traffic and footfall. The intention is to ensure good first impressions by appearing open with a strong visual appeal.
As its name suggests, the venue’s smoky nature influenced our colour decisions.; using primarily charcoal black across the entire four storey façade of the exterior to the interior, resembling slightly charred, barbecue burnt edges.
Full height windows and lighting as warm as a flickering bonfire entice passers-by to explore the inside. Marquee lettering is intentionally hung low above the bar with maximum visibility from the outside in mind.
MY ROLE
Client had requested to demolish some existing interior walls, all windows/doors, create an Interior access from first floor to second floor ,Change ceiling/flooring and extend the whole layout plan in both levels.
I was responsible and leader for this project from start to finish such as:
Manages client expectations, team communications and consultant coordination for new renovation .
Serves as the main contributor during client meetings and presentations.
Collaborates with other lead professionals to ensure design and documentation are in accordance with project expectations.
Design and prepare drawing for Conceptual design, schematic design and design development.
Prepare full set of architectural layout plans, Elevations, Sections and relevant detail drawings.
Select/Order materials, finishes, custom design lightings and furniture's with providing construction drawings for relevant contractors.
Site supervising and conduct observations of work during construction to monitor compliance with specifications.
Apply and coordinate with expertise in technical work and develop technical solutions to complex problems .
Successful completion of major programs and may function in a project leadership role.
Supports business development and marketing efforts.
SOUTHVILLE CITY SALES GALLERY
Interior Design company : Palladio Interiors Sdn. Bhd.
Located on the site of Southville City, the Sales Gallery occupies the corner lot of the lifestyle shops, taking up four lots horizontally extending three storeys upwards. The Sales Gallery is a luxurious residential marketing suite created for the entire Southville City, which will in the later stages serve as the handover venue for buyers.
Drawing inspiration from the development’s focus on elevating living expectations via greener environments and outdoor activities within an urban setting, the Sales Gallery adopted hues of blue as the main palette. Our client expressed the importance of Feng Shui to create a harmonious atmosphere. We applied this to the layout, enabling energy to flow through all spaces unobstructed. Representing nature’s elements, Aegean Blue is used on the walls and across the ceiling. Deeper ocean blue is the main colour of choice for upholstery. Several pockets on the floor see the carpet in a distinct water-like print emulating streams.
MY ROLE
Client had decided to join three small shop-lots to maximize the space for Sales Gallery area by demolishing some existing interior walls and find a creative access to show unit where was located in second floor and also they have requested to follow all Feng Shui Rules which was the challenging part of this project since it was affected in whole layout plan and design process.
I was responsible and leader for this project from start to finish such as:
Manages client expectations, team communications and consultant coordination for new renovation .
Serves as the main contributor during client meetings and presentations.
Collaborates with other lead professionals to ensure design and documentation are in accordance with project expectations.
Design and prepare drawing for Conceptual design, schematic design and design development.
Prepare full set of architectural layout plans, Elevations, Sections and relevant detail drawings.
Design and coordinate installation of overall space signage and individual room and area signage.
Estimate Cost, Select/Order materials, finishes, custom design lightings and furniture's with providing construction drawings for relevant contractors.
Site supervising and conduct observations of work during construction to monitor compliance with specifications.
Provide technical assistance to internal team members and subcontractors to ensure projects are completed effortlessly.
Successful completion to resolve issues and ensure client satisfaction.
TRENCADIS
Interior Design company : Palladio Interiors Sdn. Bhd.
GOLD WINNER FOR BEST DESIGN INSTALLATION @ RIX
Trencadís is an interactive installation that takes the form of a wearable piece set against a scenic background. It was intricately assembled from over 1,500 pieces in 12 different colours , by the leading surfaces company, LG-Hi Macs ®.
The solid pieces are a combination of acrylic, minerals and natural pigments that are most often used for interior surfaces such as table and countertops.
Visitors to Trencadis are encouraged to experience this material in a different way by climbing up the dress to wear it. The dress's draping effect is achieved through a method inspired by world-renowned Spanish designer and architect Antonio Gaudi.His fluid and ornamental approach involved craft techniques which were important to him along with the mosaic technique trencadís; a Catalan term meaning chopped tile shards and broken chinaware cemented together.
Gaudi’s unique constructional language largely influenced the artistic personality of this piece along with its curved surfaces.
Although mosaic is centuries old, our application of it for a fashion piece symbolises the innovative potential of household materials, presenting a hard material as seemingly soft, fusing boundaries between interior and fashion.
MY ROLE
RIX (Reka Interior Exhibition) had planed for a competition among some Interior design Companies for Best design Installation located in Kuala Lumpur exhibition Hall center. Our company suppose to propose and installation made by Solid Surface material with a strong story line and concept.
I was involved for this project in such as:
Contribute and lead a team through the conceptual, schematic, design development, construction documents, specifications and select the material
Site supervising and conduct observations of work during construction to monitor compliance with specifications.
Provide technical assistance to internal team members and subcontractors to ensure projects are completed on time.
Successful completion and was interviewing with exhibitor after award.
KL SOUTH SHOW UNIT
Interior Design company : Palladio Interiors Sdn. Bhd.
HONOURABLE MENTION FOR RESIDENTIAL SHOW UNIT –RIDA 2017 .
HONOURABLE MENTION FOR SHOW UNIT – MIID REKA 2017 .
“CREATING NEW, LIVEABLE SPACES WITHIN THE OLD FAÇADE OF AN EXISTING MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT”
The downtown loft character here is achieved by fusing functionality with an eclectic style and industrial influence. Intentionally exposed structural beams emphasize a loft in Tribeca and herringbone wood hints at what the building’s original flooring may have been.
The existing building afforded extra ceiling height and thus was maximized in several ways; creating a mezzanine level, kids “den” and floor to ceiling storages, including a sliding ladder.
An eclectic mix of furniture reveals the personality and interests of the user; a lover of music, art and collector of retro pieces. The immediate feeling is spacious, welcoming and sociable with the addition of natural light flooding in. The casual, dining area sits suitably within the most intimate corner of the home, with its lowered ceiling, exposed support beams and retro style globe lighting.
Working space is integral to the home and is placed in full view of the living room. It allows for casual work without shutting the user away from the rest of the home’s activities. An incredibly useful perforated metal wall can be used in a multitude of ways, to hang a work bag, art materials, pictures and so on.
MY ROLE
This project was about to repurpose an existing mixed-use development including the design of two, contemporary dual key show units with a contemporary approach towards urban living with modern facilities. I was responsible to design one of the show unit named SOHO 17 (Tribeca Loft ).
As per older build methods, there were visible structural beams running across the top of the units. These compartmentalized the ceilings which instead of viewing as a hindrance, were retained as a way of embracing the former structure.
My role description for above mention show unit are such as:
Work with Design manager to learn and translate her design vision and brand aesthetic.
Research and propose conceptual design, prepare 3D drawing and rendering, schematic design and design development.
Prepare and produce accurate architectural drawing and cabinetry construction drawing .
Select and sourcing material, finishes and other fixture resources.
Prepare and produce specification documents for furniture, finishes and equipment.
STARLING MALL
Interior Design company : Palladio Interiors Sdn. Bhd.
Taking inspiration from the Starling bird, this community mall is a real addition to the thriving neighborhood that it lives in. The defining theme is 'the mall in a park' which features landscaping, a meandering brook, bird bath and retail space. Using a selection of rustic and unusual materials strengthened the natural concept.
This is the first mall in Damansara Uptown and is situated at the center of a well-loved neighborhood. Creating a destination with an approachable feel for the community, was of upmost importance to the client and design team.
Our aim was to allow visitors to relax in a familiar environment, connecting the community outside to a new indoor park setting. The unique concierge counter, shaped as a bird’s nest greets new visitors. 365 individually crafted birds, representing each day of the year, take flight from it and are suspended in a murmuration, (a swooping acrobatic movement which starling flocks are well known for). Their colors within this spectacular formation change as they fly higher, symbolic of the different mall floor levels. A special 366th bird was made, signifying the leap year that the mall was constructed in.
Like a whimsical dream, the suspended mechanical starlings form their murmuration through the curvaceous void, reaching towards the skylight.
The washrooms are brought to life by infusing the space with touches of humor. Each floor is dedicated with a different theme and colour code.
MY ROLE
There were many area in this project need to design and consultancy, I was part of team and responsible for all washrooms area, Flooring & ceiling design and concierge counter design. My role description for above mention area are such as:
Work with Design manager to learn and translate her design vision and brand aesthetic.
Research and propose conceptual design, prepare 3D drawing and rendering, schematic design and design development.
Prepare and produce accurate floor plans, reflected ceiling plans, finish schedules & construction drawing .
Collaborate closely with project principal to Develop artwork plans and themes for flooring design layout plan.
Participate in User Group Meetings and brain storm with team .
The POTPOURRI - COMMON FACILITIES
Interior Design company : Palladio Interiors Sdn. Bhd.
Inspired by nature, each tower block was appropriately named Anise, Basil, Cinnamon, Dahlia, Erica, Freesia, Galangal and Heather.
The complete development spans an impressive 102,000sqm.
We placed our focus on creating a feeling of wellbeing to match the central theme. The target residents are primarily young families, without neglecting the elderly.
Aside from the aforementioned recreational facilities, we were the main design consultants for 490 fully furnished units from studios to 3 bedroom units, common and lift lobbies, management office and main waiting areas.
We embraced the notion of creating a welcoming atmosphere by maximizing the community feel wherever possible.
MY ROLE
Big project with many area to design and consultancy, I was part of team and responsible for common area and lift lobbies design.
My role description for above mention area are such as:
Work with Design manager to learn and translate her design vision and brand aesthetic.
Research and propose conceptual design, prepare 3D drawing and rendering, schematic design and design development.
Prepare and produce accurate cabinetry construction drawing .
Participate in User Group Meetings and brain storm with team .
Assist Principal in sourcing material, finishes and other fixture resources.
Prepare and produce specification documents for furniture, finishes and equipment.
UTROPOLIS SHOW UNIT
Interior Design company : Palladio Interiors Sdn. Bhd.
INTEGRATING SPATIAL FUNCTIONALITY AT THE HEART OF SMALL HOMES.
A select number of the apartments feature Dual Key access measuring 1,202 sqft. They provide the opportunity for buyers to purchase two units, allowing homeowners to live in one while leasing the adjacent property.
The client brief placed emphasis on maximizing spatial functionality with live, learn, work and play at the heart of the home. The requirement was to feature practical layouts with full facilities, making them suitable for students, couples and young families.
Student Unit - designed for students, the home is flexible, and has multiple storage solutions. A fun home where students live, study and socialise.
Bachelor Unit – every corner of this compact space was maximized for a young bachelor.
The design team customized a range of unique, innovative, space-saving furniture that young buyers would find desirable and incredibly useful. A careful balance of aesthetics demonstrated that small homes do not need to compromise on good design. As the building is located within KDU’s campus vicinity, a vibrant palette and weathered timber look was chosen to appeal to the youthful inhabitants.
MY ROLE
I was part of team and responsible to assist principal for show unit area.
My role description for above mention area are such as:
Work with the Principal Designer to learn and translate her design vision and brand aesthetic.
Prepare 3D drawing and rendering, schematic design and design development.
Assist to prepare and develop accurate cabinetry construction drawing .
Assist Principal to source furniture, finishes and equipment and produce specification documents.
Graphic design and assisting with Decoration.
Assisting with marketing efforts and produce branding Video as client had requested.
SENSA SHOW UNIT
Interior Design company : Palladio Interiors Sdn. Bhd.
Located in the 1st floor of sales gallery building on the site of Southville City.
Drawing inspiration from the developments focus on elevating living experience via greener environments and outdoor activities within an urban setting. The show unit adopts hues of ocean blue as the main palette. In connection with the sales gallery on the ground floor ,natures elements (such as arch detailing and water inspired floor patterns) are represented in this home .
The luxuriously affordable modernity intermingling seamlessy with lifestyle that invigirate both inner and outer senses .
This unit has an evening mood represented by darker blues seen across the cabinetry ,parts of the ceiling, head boards and soft furnishing. Sun set rose gold was chosen for all metal detailing for the same reason. This addition adds a touch of luxury to wall surfaces.
As the space is compact, open and hanging cabinetry was designed to avoid potentially dense pockets.
MY ROLE
The show unit layout plan was extremely small for 3 bedrooms residential unit, however client had requested for a creative welcoming design for buyers, also must follow all Feng Shui Rules.
I was responsible and leader for this project from start to finish such as:
Manages client expectations, team communications and consultant coordination for new renovation .
Serves as the main contributor during client meetings and presentations.
Collaborates with other lead professionals to ensure design and documentation are in accordance with project expectations.
Design and prepare drawing for Conceptual design, schematic design and design development.
Prepare full set of architectural layout plans, Elevations, Sections and relevant detail drawings.
Design and coordinate installation of overall graphic design and individual room and area signage.
Estimate Cost, Select/Order materials, finishes, custom design lightings and furniture's with providing construction drawings for relevant contractors.
Site supervising and conduct observations of work during construction to monitor compliance with specifications.
Provide technical assistance to internal team members and subcontractors to ensure projects are completed effortlessly.
Successful completion to resolve issues and ensure client satisfaction.
18 EAST ANDAMAN
Interior Design company : Palladio Interiors Sdn. Bhd.
Interior Design of show unit (Type E) of 18 East, Andaman at Quayside condominiums, This project is the exclusive seafront development of Seri Tanjung Pinang which encapsulates the essence of resort-styled, seafront living right at your doorstep. The only condominium project in Malaysia with an expansive 4.5-acre private waterpark.
The resort lifestyle desired by client are complemented by world-class facilities, a clubhouse and a stunning view of the ocean.
MY ROLE
I was responsible and leader for this project from start to finish such as:





























































































