Edginess in Shenzhen

A dynamic hub of innovation and technology that connects Hong Kong with mainland China, Shenzhen is growing rapidly. With such development comes luxury properties and impressive design, as this project by Clement C Studio exemplifies. The founder, interior designer Clement Cheng, is used to working with demanding and successful clients, including several celebrities such as Malaysian actress Lin Min Chen and Hong Kong model Elva Ni, who trust him deeply. And these homeowners – a young couple of entrepreneurs – were no exception. Having previously worked with Cheng a few years ago for another apartment, they gave him only an overall direction and brief with spatial requirements, allowing him complete freedom for everything else in this duplex. 

Brass tones, amber crystal and golden and black elements feature in the interiors

Surrounded by mountains, the two-level, 465-square metre apartment was efficiently completed in just six months, despite its large size. Although the timeframe was tight, every detail was thoughtfully crafted and curated, ensuring the final result would create the wow effect. And indeed, it delivered. 

The sofa, coffee tables and TV cabinet Minotti bring an European touch to the look, enhanced with a Rubelli fabric with rich texture, an elegant Calico wallpaper and the intricate woven metalwork of French designer Sophie Mallebranche for even more richness and tactility

To connect the lower and upper floors, an internal staircase was designed and positioned to act both as an aesthetic feature and an indispensable element for circulation. Maximising natural light and inviting a breeze, the duplex incorporates local materials and modular panels to reduce waste. Meanwhile, the existing structures and walls were retained and reused wherever possible. Many decorative fixtures are bespoke, to elevate the design, including the rounded wall panels and ceilings, as well as the lighting pieces that introduce warmth into the very sophisticated decor. 

The base of all walls echo the traditional moulding that is typical in Parisian homes. Arches in the different spaces create a chic atmosphere reminiscent of the luxury boutiques in the Champs-Elysées of the French capital

Cheng drew inspiration from French design while introducing a contemporary twist throughout for a unique, eye-catching result. For example, a skirting detail runs throughout the home, elegantly defining the base of all walls and echoing the traditional moulding that is typical in Parisian homes. Arches and wood finishes in the different spaces, as well as pastel tones in the bedrooms, create a chic atmosphere reminiscent of the luxury boutiques in the Champs-Elysées of the French capital. Modern and classic materials combine, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship and finesse in a space where crisp, simple forms are softened with curves and edges to exude serenity. 

Simple forms are softened with curves and edges to exude serenity

Modern and classic materials combine, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship and finesse

“In this apartment, we used the same marble for the lower floor with the living room, dining area and tearoom to create a similar effect for a sense of harmony,” says Cheng. The sofa, coffee tables and TV cabinet by Italian brand Minotti bring another European touch to the look, enhanced with a Rubelli fabric with rich texture, an elegant Calico wallpaper and the intricate woven metalwork of French designer Sophie Mallebranche for even more richness and tactility. Dark grey pairs with light earthy tones in the bright, airy backdrop of the double-height duplex, where a wooden floor was installed in the bedrooms for more cosiness. Brass tones, amber crystal and golden and black elements make the interior spaces even more classy. Reflecting a magical glow, this home radiates grandeur from floor to ceiling. 

clementcstudio.com

Photography by Ricci Wu