Getting the keys to your new house is exciting—whether it’s a high-rise condo in Kuala Lumpur, a spacious landed home in Seremban 2/Sendayan, or a new property in Melaka.
But what comes next—the renovation—can be overwhelming.
You have hundreds of decisions to make: Which layout maximizes my space? Is Melamine really cheaper than Plywood? Do I actually need a Wet Kitchen?
At Fatt Interior, we serve homeowners across the Klang Valley, Negeri Sembilan, and Melaka. We believe that a beautiful home must also be a durable one. We have compiled our years of experience into this Ultimate Guide to Custom Cabinets and Renovation.
Use this guide to navigate your journey, and click the links inside to dive deeper into specific topics.
Step 1: Planning Your Layout (Wet vs. Dry Kitchen)
In Western countries, open kitchens are the standard. In Malaysia, however, our cooking style (sambal, curries, high heat) requires a smarter approach.
The Wet Kitchen
This is the workhorse. It needs to be heavy-duty, well-ventilated, and easy to clean.
- Focus: Ventilation (hood ducting), grease resistance, and durable materials.
- Layout: Usually Galley (parallel) or L-Shape. Crucial for landed homes in Seremban/Melaka.
The Dry Kitchen (Pantry)
This is for light breakfast, making coffee, and serving guests.
- Focus: Aesthetics, LED lighting, and display storage.
- Layout: Often includes an Island or Bar Counter. Popular for KL condos where space is at a premium.
Planning Tip: Don't just follow a trend. If you cook heavy meals daily, prioritize the Wet Kitchen budget over a fancy Dry Kitchen island.
Step 2: Choosing the Right "Core" Material
This is the most critical decision you will make, yet most homeowners ignore it because it's hidden inside the cabinet.
If you choose the wrong core material for a humid space (like near a sink), your cabinets will swell and rot within a few years.
- Plywood (E0 Grade): Our top recommendation. Water-resistant, strong screw holding, and low formaldehyde.
- Melamine/Chipboard: Affordable and looks good, but swells like a biscuit if water penetrates the edges.
- Aluminium: Indestructible and waterproof, though it can feel "colder" and more industrial.
We have written a complete breakdown of every material option. Do not start your renovation without reading this:
👉 Read: The Ultimate Guide to Cabinet Materials (Plywood vs. MDF vs. Melamine)
Step 3: Selecting Your Countertop
Once the cabinets are built, you need a work surface. Your choice depends on your budget and how roughly you use your kitchen.
- Quartz Stone: The premium choice. Scratch-resistant, stain-proof, and feels like luxury stone. Ideal for heavy cooking.
- HPL (Standard Countertop): The budget choice. Comes in beautiful wood prints but isn't heat or scratch-resistant.
Which one fits your wallet and lifestyle? We compared them head-to-head here:
👉 Read: Quartz Stone vs. Standard Countertops: Which is Best for Malaysian Homes?
Step 4: Deciding on a Design Style
You want your home to look modern, but you also want it to feel timeless.
In 2025, we are moving away from sterile, all-white hospital looks. Homeowners from KL to Melaka are embracing warmer tones, "Japandi" styles, and smart functionality.
- Wabi-Sabi: Embracing texture and imperfection.
- Smart Homes: Hiding tech and messy cables inside joinery.
- Warm Earth Tones: Terracotta, oatmeal, and natural wood colors.
Need inspiration? Check out our report on the upcoming trends:
👉 Read: 7 Malaysian Interior Design Trends That Will Dominate 2025
Step 5: Beyond the Kitchen (Wardrobes & Living)
Renovation isn't just about cooking. It's about living comfort.
Custom Wardrobes
Stop buying loose wardrobes that leave dust gaps at the top.
- Swing Doors: Great for full visibility (best for larger rooms).
- Sliding Doors: Perfect for smaller bedrooms in terraced houses or condos.
- Anti-Jump Tracks: A must-have feature we install for durability.
Feature Walls
A TV console isn't just a shelf; it's the focal point of your living room. We design floating consoles with hidden cable management so you never see a messy wire again.
Why Homeowners in KL, Seremban & Melaka Trust Fatt Interior
We aren't just a sales team; we are makers.
- Factory Direct (No Middlemen): We manufacture your cabinets in our own facility in Seremban. This allows us to offer better pricing to KL and Melaka clients compared to city-center showrooms with high rentals.
- Safety First: We prioritize E0 Low-Formaldehyde materials because your family's health matters.
- Regional Expertise: Whether it's a tight condo layout in KL or a spacious bungalow in Melaka, we know how to maximize your specific floor plan.
To understand our full process and see our portfolio, check out our introduction:
👉 Read: Transform Your Home with Expert Interior Design
Ready to Start?
Renovating doesn't have to be a headache. With the right plan and the right materials, you can build a home that lasts a lifetime.
Visit our Factory in Seremban to touch the materials yourself and see exactly how your cabinets are made.