ABOUT US

Founded in 2016 by Matthew Lim, Matthew Lim Associates (MLA) is a Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia –based design studio recognized for its refined and emotionally attuned approach to interior architecture. With projects involvement across 8 countries in Southeast Asia, MLA’s portfolio spans ultra-luxury private residences, bespoke boutique development, and commercial retail spaces that reflect cultural sensitivity and spatial harmony.

 

Guided by a philosophy of balance, warmth, and timelessness, MLA creates interiors that connect people to place — spaces defined by natural materiality, crafted detail, and quiet emotion. Each project embodies the studio’s belief that true design transcends trends and endures through human experience.

 

Rather than chasing aestheics, MLA seeks to create environments that move people — spaces that feel calm, purposeful, and alive. Each project begins with a sense of emotion and place, then unfolds through material exploration and meticulous detailing. The result is design that feels effortless yet deeply intentional, blending craftsmanship with sensitivity.

OUR PHILOSOPHY

At Matthew Lim Associates, design begins with empathy — a sensitivity to how space makes people feel. Every interior is an exploration of mood, rhythm, and atmosphere; a conversation between material, light, and the quiet moments that unfold within.

 

We believe that good design does not shout — it whispers. It invites calm, curiosity, and connection. Each space is shaped to evoke emotion rather than to impress, allowing the essence of its occupants and surroundings to emerge naturally.

 

This philosophy translates into a language of balance and restraint — where interior architecture meets craftsmanship, and simplicity holds depth. Through the interplay of curves and lines, textures and tones, Matthew Lim Associates crafts environments that feel timeless, tactile, and deeply human.

 

Ultimately, design for Matthew Lim Associates is not just about what is seen, but what is felt. It is about creating spaces that linger in memory — not because they are perfect, but because they are personal.

MATTHEW LIM

Founder & Managing Director

Matthew Lim is a visionary designer known for his people-centric, emotionally resonant approach to spatial design. He believes every space should tell a meaningful story — one that connects people, place, and purpose through an immersive and timeless design language.

 

Matthew began his entrepreneurial journey at the age of 21 and founded Matthew Lim Associates (MLA) in 2016. Over the years, the practice has expanded its portfolio to eight countries across Southeast Asia, specializing in ultra-luxury private residences, bespoke boutique development, and commercial retail spaces. His work is defined by its balance of refinement and warmth — a pursuit of spatial clarity, craftsmanship, and emotional depth.

 

Widely recognised within the design community, Matthew has received both local and international accolades for his creative vision. His honours include an Honorary Mention at the IDA Award International (Los Angeles, USA) and Silver Awards at the A’ Design Award (Milan, Italy). More recently, he received an Honourable Mention at the Outstanding Property Award London and was named Winner at the International Interior Design Award.

 

Today, Matthew continues to lead MLA with a focus on creating interiors that evoke emotion, elevate daily living, and stand as quiet expressions of beauty and meaning.

OUR SERVICES

  1. BESPOKE RETROFIT SOLUTIONS
  2. INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE CONSULTANCY
  3. CONCEPTUALISATION & IDEATION
  4. SPATIAL PLANNING & DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
  5. BRANDING AND CREATIVE STRATEGIES
  6. COST & SCHEDULE CONTROL
  7. DESIGN & BUILD / CONSTRUCTION, SITE SUPERVISION & PROJECT MANAGEMENT.

Studio Ethos

Each MLA project is approached as a dialogue — between designer and client, between material and light, between aspiration and authenticity. The studio’s goal is simple yet profound:
to create interiors that feel honest, soulful, and quietly extraordinary.