A kitchen is the heart of a home, whether big or small, the kitchen is the hub of the home. It is where the meals are created to fuels the bodies, minds, and soul of family and friends.

The kitchen was designed for preparing and cooking meals. However, these days the kitchen has slowly morphed into the epicenter of the home. Gone are the days where the kitchen was a small dreary room hidden away from sight. Nowadays, homeowners are embracing open plan spaces, where the age-old rules and roles of separate living room, dining room, and kitchen are constantly being rewritten. As a matter of fact, in most modern homes the kitchen wears many hats. It is where we cook; where we eat; where children do homework; where you have a cup of tea or coffee while bantering with friends; where you share a glass of wine with your partner; where countless good times are shared over good food – it is where everyday life is lived.

Imagine that there is a house for sale in Seremban, and you find that the kitchen is not to your taste, or even worse, completely bare. So, you decide to remodel the kitchen. You might find yourself at a loss when faced with the hundreds of choices available in terms of interior design and décor – you might not even be sure of the fine details associated with each design style. Whether designing a new kitchen from scratch or upgrading an existing kitchen, we all tend to face hurdles when figuring out design ideas we would like to commit to. In today’s guide, we have compiled a number of design styles to help guide and direct your eye.


Modern and Minimalist

The definition of “modern” may vary according to different people, however, all modern kitchens have the same signature style that celebrates structure and grid – think sleek, simple, sophisticated. Think about strong horizontal lines, reflective surfaces, frameless cabinets, fuss-free hardware, industrial elements and the bare essentials. Modern kitchens tend to be clutter-free and minimalistic, with everything kept behind closed cabinets (or doors). The lack of ornamentation will help let the beauty of the design and natural materials shine through. Colour palettes tend to skew towards neutral colors such as white, black or grey. However, you can also introduce strategic pops of color and eclectic accents to put your own spin on the design. Certain splurges such as marble countertops and elegant lighting can give the modern kitchen an extra, luxurious touch.


Traditional and Ornate

Traditional kitchens are defined by classic design elements and an attention to detail. Think of Old World charm when it comes to the design. Architectural details that are formal and ornate – such as arches, beam ceilings, decorative moldings, and corbels – are the key features. Traditional kitchens are full of embellishment and adornment everywhere you look. For example, you will see raised-panel doors, decorative carvings on cabinets and furniture, glazed and antique finishes – in other words, the direct opposite of minimal. Cabinetry tends to be framed, with flushed inset, raised panels, and even exposed hinges. All these decorative elements serve to add visual interest as well as depth and perspective. However, be sure to keep the decorative details layered and well thought out, otherwise, it might get a bit overwhelming.


Country Farmhouse

The defining signatures of a country kitchen are open and inviting spaces. There is a focus on natural materials and good, steady craftsmanship. In terms of design features, think of open shelving, wide and deep sinks, freestanding cabinetry, and don’t forget the most important feature of all – a large kitchen table. A fireplace expounds upon the idea of the kitchen hearth. Although it seems a bit odd in Malaysia, it can add an authentic touch to your country kitchen. It can be purely decorative if it cannot be functional. In terms of décor in a country or farmhouse kitchen, the focuses are on on eclectic finishes and mixing-rather-than-matching furniture based on warm primary colors and aged hues. All this helps to help create a spacious, warm, comfortable and lived-in feel that will let you and your guests enjoy the feeling of a countryside getaway – even if you’re located in the midst of suburbia.


Rustic and Rugged

There is a certain warmth and charm to a rustic kitchen that many will appreciate. Keep the focus on the rough – wooden décor, worn features, and rugged functionality. The rustic look will be dominated by materials such as timber beams, stone walls, slate floors, brick architectural features, bronze or brass finishes, and worn distressed carpentry. Furniture with warm hues made of elements that show their age will give your rustic kitchen an extra touch. Currently, in the interior design market, reclaimed wood is making a huge comeback, especially for use as tabletops or countertops. Remember that you almost cannot have too much wood in a rustic kitchen. They may not be conventional, but rustic kitchens are certainly capable of rivaling even the most classic and traditional kitchens in terms of popularity.


Classic and Flexible

Classic kitchens tend to be timeless, yet still flexible. If you are at a loss when it comes to defining your style, and are afraid of having too much style, a classic kitchen is just for you. Stick to more timeless details such as white or cream cabinetry. Keep architectural details simple and fuss-free. Countertops usually are either black or white and can be made of natural material such as granite and marble, or made of cast material such as quartz. Stick to something with a neutral design style – not too modern and not too ornate. Think of your classic kitchen as a chameleon: you can keep the bare bones of the kitchen neutral and simple (that’s the base), and still be able to change the look by mixing in other tangible elements such as more traditional furniture or even modern light fixtures (that’s the accents). You get the idea – a classic kitchen is one that can adapt well to any style of furnishing that you throw at it.


Transitional and In-between

Transitional kitchens are for the in-betweeners. If you don’t want to confine yourself to a definite style, or your taste spans two, a transitional kitchen may just be the perfect choice for you. Think of it as the moderator, where you can blend the warmth and welcome of traditional design without the ostentatiousness together with the clean and simple lines of modern minimalism without it looking too industrial and clinical. Try interpreting traditional details in a more contemporary way, or vice versa. Look for crisp streamlined cabinetry made from more traditional materials. Natural surfaces – such as granite or marble – are also a good way to balance two different design styles at opposing ends of the spectrum. Remember that any feature or design can be well-suited to translational design ideas as long as it is versatile.


Eclectic and Rebellious

Tired of sticking to strict rules of interior design? Throw all those predetermined notions of design out the window and mix and match as you please. If you are a rebel with a cause and refuse to be pigeonholed, go for an eclectic design style that will surely showcase your out-of-the-box personality. However, proceed with caution as eclectic done wrong can look like a chaotic mess and mod podge that makes no sense whatsoever. If eclectic is the look you are going for, try to make it look like your kitchen has been collected over time. Even though this may be one of the hardest design styles to achieve, eclectic if done right oozes a sense of effortlessness and confidence.

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Such an exciting night at Paradigm Mall as I witness the Slimplezy Challenge, the 20 participants was battling it out to see who will come out on top with the healthiest lifestyle in a challenge that spans over 2 months. The participants were all set to make a shift in their health and adopt a healtheir lifestyle, I was really impressed by their commitment and how much they have transformed with the challenge!

The Slimplezy Challenge is a platform to celebrate a healthy and balanced lifestyle among urban women, who are too busy with the pressures of modern life, the challenge will culminate in a runway show where 3 final contestants will be chosen to win return tickets to an exotic Asian destination, along with premium JONLIVIA products.





As the main sponsor of the event, Jonlivia Activewear, one of Malaysia’s premium activewear, which will also be showcasing the first ever skin brightening activewear during the event, The BlazePants Brightening Series.

Let's take a look at all the amazing functions of this new pants that go beyond fitness, The BlazePants Brightening Series gives you :

• Skin Brightening 
• Neoheat Technology 
• 50% UPF Protection
• Embeded with Rose Extract 

The Neoheat Technology helps you to sweat faster as you burn calories faster, the fabric is immersed in distilled rose components extracted from hundreds of organic rose petal components which helps brightens your skin, 50% UPF protection for those who are constantly exercising outdoor to protect your skin from harmful sunrays. The BlazePants Brightening series is also great for those who have  sensitive or dry skin because of its anti-oxidising properties.

The BlazePants Brightening Series will be retailing at RM208 and available for purchase online at Jonlivia.com or from the retail outlet at Jonlivia Lifestyle Club SS2.

READ ALSO:

Reviews on other Jonlivia products

• Jonlivia Woman Slimming Shirt Shaper
• Jonlivia Unisex Phiro Back Support
• Jonlivia Daily Diva Shapewear
• Workout in Style with Jonlivia Woman Hotpant S+

YAY!! What an exciting day!! I'm just so happy to be invited to this event because I can't wait to see it in-person. For the first time ever, iconic Malaysian celebrities and Calpis ambassadors such as Harith Iskander (Laugh Factory Funniest Person in The World 2016), Zizan Razak (actor and comedian) and Siti Nordiana (singer) will be lifted in mid-air with helium balloons at eCurve Mutiara Damansara, making it the first ever cultured milk brand to host such an extraordinary campaign.

Calpis, Japan’s first cultured milk drink continued to excite its fans and consumers. Today, the brand pulled another unprecedented fun-filled campaign that aimed to advocate a healthier lifestyle through maintaining a good and healthy digestive system.

As part of the extraordinary feat and in an effort to spread more goodness to Malaysians, Calpis invited members of the public to be part of the uplifting experience via a social media contest. All Malaysians needed to do was to guess the number of helium balloons that it took to lift the ambassadors by watching the actual event via livestream on Facebook Live. A total of RM15,000 cash prizes were rewarded to 150 individuals by the end of the Facebook livestream!

Many Malaysians tuned in to watch the actual lifting that showcased how ‘light’ one feels upon consuming Calpis Fibre range – a key point as Calpis Fibre promotes gut-health combined with a dose of deliciousness.

Harith Iskander waving to the crowd at 5 feet off the ground

Group photo of the Calpis ambassadors and Santharuban T. Sundaram, Vice President of Marketing at Etika Sdn Bhd before the lift-off

Cultured milk drink is made from milk fermented with lactobacilli and are generally bifidogenic. It is high in nutrients and probiotics (live bacteria and yeasts) that can help to restore the balance of good and friendly bacteria in the gut – which is incredibly beneficial for digestion and gut health. Essentially, it improves pH level within the intestinal area and helps grow good bacteria which then aids you in the digestion of food and assimilation of nutrients.

Furthermore, Calpis Fibre contains polydextrose, which is a form of dietary fibre that helps increase intestinal bifidobacteria and helps maintain a good intestinal microflora. Polydextrose is well tolerated amongst patients with irritable bowel syndrome (“IBS”) too, and has been known to alleviate IBS and constipation symptoms as well. Now we know the one way to manage our intestinal and digestive health that’s actually simple to do!

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Pic Credits to Food Haste

Following their successful “What’s Your Love Letter?” campaign, Malaysia largest biscuits manufacturer Julie has prepared another excitement to town this Chinese New Year by inviting Chinese-American celebrity chef Martin Yan to specially design dessert recipes with Julie’s biscuits, this is to allow the public to learn more about Julie’s signature products.

Pic Credits to Food Haste

Pic Credits to Food Haste

Pic Credits to Food Haste

Last Saturday 20th January 2018, I was able to witness one of my favorite celebrity chefs live at AEON Cheras Selatan. Martin Yan is no stranger to me as I am a big fan of watching his show on Asian Food Channel, made popular by his award-winning cooking show “Yan Can Cook”, Martin Yan is also a proud author of more than 30 cookbooks. During this cooking demonstration, he made special desserts and creative menu using Julie’s Love Letters and Julie’s other biscuits. The fun and outgoing chef also presented a special “Nanta” percussion performance for the audience. It was really fun to witness the great “Yan Kungfu” in cooking.


This is a special collaboration with Julie’s, where Chef Martin Yan will be showcasing new recipes created especially for the event. The audience will also have a chance to get up close and personal with him. Purchase 2 tins of 700gram Julie’s Love Letters during the event, and you will receive a free 400gram Julie’s Love Letters Strawberry flavored and enjoy a special photo session with Chef Yan! Only limited to the 188 fans on first come first served basis.

This Martin Yan cooking demonstration is part of Julie’s “What’s Your Love Letter” campaign. To thank the public for their strong support over the years, Julie’s will travel around Malaysia to deliver their blessings to all. Julie’s “What’s Your Love Letter?” 2018 Chinese New Year Roadshow will be held from Jan 19 to 21, Jan 26 to 28, and Feb 2 to 4 respectively in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Penang, Perak Johor, Kedah, Pahang and Melaka.


Join us at our “What’s Your Love Letter?” 2018 Chinese New Year Roadshow at the 35 shopping malls. Purchase 2 tins 700gram Julie’s Love Letters and you can participate in our “Bring Your Blessing Home” on the spot. Bring home exciting prizes with vouchers and Julie’s merchandise (terms apply).

In addition, at 11am every Saturday (20 Jan, 27 Jan and 3 Feb) during our roadshow, the first 188 customers who purchased 2 tins 700gram Julie’s Love Letters will receive a free 400gram Julie’s Love Letters and a limited edition “Fudai” woven bag! On first come first served basis, while stocks last. For more details, please visit Julie’s Biscuits Facebook page at ww.facebook.com/JuliesBiscuits



Scribble Your Love and Win a 24k Gold Fortune Pouch Charm Bracelet

A chance to express your love to your family and loved ones! This year, Julie’s Love Letters launched the “What’s Your Love Letter?” Contest. Purchase 2 tins 700gram Julie’s Love Letters from Jan 8 to Feb 11, 2018, and write down your love message within 20 words on the Love Note. Fill in your personal details, attach the receipt from your purchase and participate by dropping your contest form inside the giant Julie’s Fudai at Julie’s promotional block or post it to Julie’s mailbox. The top 50 most touching messages will stand a chance to win a 24K Gold Fortune Pouch Charm bracelet. 10 lucky winners will be selected weekly.


Julie’s “What’s Your Love Letter?” 2018 CNY Roadshow Date & Venues

Jan 19 to Jan 21, 2018:
Aeon Cheras Selatan, Kuala Lumpur
Aeon Big Kepong, Kuala Lumpur
Giant Batu Caves, Selangor
NSK Selayang, Selangor
Pacific Alor Setar Mall, Kedah
Billion Jelapang, Perak
TF Value Mart Sg. Siput, Perak
Maslee Setia Indah, Johor Bahru, Johor
Giant Plentong, Masai, Johor
Pacific Batu Pahat, Johor

Jan 26 to Jan 28, 2018
Aeon Bukit Tinggi, Klang, Selangor
Tesco Puchong, Selangor
Mydin Subang USJ, Selangor
NSK Kuchai Lama, Kuala Lumpur
Aeon Big Wangsa Maju, Kuala Lumpur
Aeon Bandaraya, Melaka
NSK, Seremban 2, Negeri Sembilan
TF Value Mart Bt. Gajah, Perak
TF Value Mart Botani, Perak
Econsave Taman Daya, Johor
Aeon Big Sutera Mall, Johor Bahru, Johor
Billion Seberang Jaya, Pulau Pinang
Gama Supermarket, George Town, Pulau Pinang

Feb 2 to Feb 4 , 2018
Tesco Kepong, Kuala Lumpur
Aeon Metro Prima, Kepong, Kuala Lumpur
NSK Klang, Selangor
TF Value Teluk Intan, Perak
Billion Lumut, Sri Manjung, Perak
Aeon Terbau City, Johor Bahru, Johor
Tunas Manja Air Putih, Kuantan, Pahang
TF Value Mentakab, Pahang
Family Store Kipmart Bachang, Melaka
Sunshine Square, Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang
Sunshine Farlim, Ayer Itam, Pulau Pinang
Tesco Penang Extra, Pulau Pinang

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March Alzea Kitchen is a homey coffee shop that will soak right into your heart, the cafe is located in OUG and it is a perfect place to visit with your family and friends. The interior is beautifully designed by the owners, I really love how it had good amount of natural daylight with a beautiful touch of greens. The seating areas are separated into 3 parts, a private room, a cement bar top and the 4 pax seating area.




At March Alzea Kitchen beside the their main courses, they also have good coffee for you to pair with. They serve up tasty home-cooked food, everything in the house is homemade including all salads, sauces and their desserts. Generally, the range was pretty good, tried some of their recommended menus such as the ones below.

Hot Rose Milk RM6.80


Rose Cofee  RM13.80


Jasmine Cofee  RM13.80

Roasted Chicken Salad RM16.80
A perfect option if you fancy something light, fresh and healthy at the same time. The green lettuce and red cabbage were perfectly crunchy giving in extra texture to the whole dish, drizzled with honey sesame sauce and served with roasted chicken.


Aglio-Olio Spaghetti with Mixed Mushroom RM14.80
Al-dente spaghettini in aromatic garlic oil with juicy mushroom and chili flakes. It was simply wonderful, light and smooth with an addicting savory taste from the mushrooms.


Sambal Petai Egg Rice RM13.80
Out of many specialty dishes, their egg rice bowls is simply a must-have. The Sambal Petai Egg Rice is topped with sambal petai and prawns, pork floss, fresh cucumber and a runny half-boiled egg. Pop the runny eggs and mix everything together, this was such a delightful treat for those who loves petai and spicy food.


Roasted Chicken with Honey Lemon Brown Sauce - RM19.80
As appetizing as it looks, this roasted chicken is delicious, it was so beautifully cooked, glazed and covered with glossy juice layer, the meat was tender without being too dry and the honey lemon brown sauce was a good pairing to the chicken.


Salmon with Tomato Salsa RM32.80
Major love for their Salmon with Tomato Salsa, the salmon was beautifully cooked it is still moist and the tomato salsa balance out the taste. Overall, it was perfect, if you have kids this dish is great for them.


Creme Brulee RM11.80
Another must have! This homemade creme brulee was made with kampung eggs, they were the sweet closure to my lunch, first off I love that it is not overly sweet and the custard was done perfectly and I love how I could still smell and taste the fragrance of the eggs in every bite.

Overall, March Alzea Kitchen is the place to go to if you love a quiet, comfy ambiance, the cafe serves decent food with friendly service, I like how the staff here is polite and attentive. Breakfast will also be made available starting March so stay tuned their Facebook Page for more information.

March Azalea Kitchen
40, Jalan Awan Hijau, Taman Overseas Union, 58200 Kuala Lumpur.
Contact: 03-7972 7330
Opening Hours: 12pm - 11pm opens everyday except Tuesday
FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM

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