This cheerful space in Damansara Heights sells clothing, accessories and homeware; hosts events, workshops and fitness sessions; and even serves up mouth-watering Indonesian cuisine once a week.
“In Kuala Lumpur, you have bigger clubs that provide fellowship and togetherness. But here, we have created something a lot smaller, more intimate and focused,” Turner Shaik told FMT Lifestyle.
“We wanted to create a space that could be everyone’s second home, where they can come and shop, have a coffee or a meal, or exercise in the garden; where they can just be themselves and laugh,” Gaya added.
They welcome women to step into Bungalow18 and escape the noise of the world. The two-storey building’s warm lighting, and the vibrant colours of its merchandise, exude cosy and inviting vibes to all who stop by.
The first floor has an office and co-working space, while the ground floor hosts a trendy boutique with an eclectic mix of apparel and accessories on display.
Whether it’s bags, books or batik shirts, cosmetics or cushion covers, scandals or scarves, there’s plenty here to delight the stylish fashionista or homeowner.
Everything here is proudly homegrown: check out offerings from local brands such as Aira Malaysia, Sara Ryan, Bayou and, of course, Frankitas, the latter featuring creations by Turner Shaik and Gaya.
The pair pointed out that the brands they work with have stories that resonate with their values, such as sustainability, inclusion and fairness.
And they hope to encourage patrons to become more familiar with Malaysian-made brands, which they believe are just as high-quality, if not more, than those from overseas.
Meanwhile, the venue’s verdant garden is a popular spot for events, many of which are health-centred. For example, outdoor barre classes are held here every Monday and Thursday, while sessions ranging from menopause to mindfulness are often conducted by special invited guests.
Another highlight of Bungalow18 is its pop-up café every Friday. Savour Indonesian classics such as gado gado, bakso or roh roh lontong – made from a traditional recipe by Turner Shaik’s grandmother!
Everything in the garden was planted by Turner Shaik herself, including many of the ingredients used for the pop-up café.
Speaking of which, Gaya and Turner Shaik hope to extend its operational days, and are also seeking experienced F&B partners to collaborate with.
They have further completed a business plan for another F&B outlet, which will be centred around gut health.
Turner Shaik, who hails from Bogor, Indonesia, has been friends with Kuala Lumpur-born Gaya since the two met at school here when they were 12. Bungalow18, they point out, is built on the foundations of their friendship.
The pair describe themselves as very different people: Turner Shaik is the “dreamer”, always coming up with new ideas and concepts, while Gaya is the more practical “doer”. It’s a complementary combination.
“Gaya is extraordinarily happy when I achieve things, and I’m happy when she achieves things. When I’m sad, she’s always there to hold my hand.
“A lot of people dismiss working with friends, but perhaps they should give it a try. But you have to go at it from a place of love, not ego,” Turner Shaik concluded.
Bungalow18 by Frankitas
18, Jalan Damansara Permai,
Taman Damansara Endah,
50490 Kuala Lumpur
Boutique hours: 10am-5pm (Mondays to Saturdays)
Pop-up café: 10am-3pm on Fridays
For more information, visit Frankitas’ website, and follow Bungalow18 on Instagram.