Tour a mountain retreat that sits comfortably at the intersection of Hong Kong and mainland Chinese design aesthetics.
Hong Kong design firm Clement C Studio has conceived a double-height duplex near Bijiashan on Shenzhen's outskirts. Led by founder Clement Cheng, the 5,000-square-foot space was completed in just six months given free rein on aesthetics.
The duplex sits among mountain landscapes at the edge of Shenzhen, China's tech innovation hub connecting to Hong Kong. With four bedrooms, study, gym and children's playroom spread across two floors, the space required smart planning.
Cheng positioned the internal staircase as both functional backbone and design feature, while configuring layouts to maximise natural light and airflow. Dark grey paired with earthy tones establishes the palette, with marble flooring downstairs transitioning to wood in bedrooms for warmth.
Material transitions mark different functional zones – marble flooring in the lower-level living room, dining area and tea room gives way to warmer wooden surfaces in bedrooms. Brass-toned lighting fixtures and amber crystal accents provide warmth throughout the space.
Textural elements add character without fuss – Rubelli fabrics, Calico wallpaper and Sophie Mallebranche woven metal create depth against clean lines. The designer incorporated French-inspired elements with modern twists, including reinterpreted traditional mouldings and simplified arched vaults at the entrance.
Curved edges soften the space throughout, while bespoke lighting in brass tones appears alongside Minotti furniture pieces. Despite the luxury approach, Cheng maintained sustainability by using local materials, modular panels and preserving existing structures where possible.
