Next level

A new Hong Kong development elevates urban apartment living

‘House living in the sky’ – that was the working concept for The Great Room in the show apartment at Hong Kong’s 8 Deep Water Bay Drive, developed by the Nan Fung Group and Vervain Resources. A multifunctional, formal space designed for entertaining, the room offers breathtaking views of the emerald slopes of Mount Cameron. ‘We wanted to maximise the light, airy feeling of living at elevation – to provide all the benefits of apartment living with the privacy and seclusion of a detached house,’ says the property’s interior designer Alexandra Champalimaud. The development features more than 80 per cent green space, a rarity in hyper-dense Hong Kong. ‘To make a connection with nature, floor-to-ceiling windows were installed, which also make the units feel more spacious.’ Materials, textures, colours and furnishings were chosen with care. ‘Light oaks, soft whites and smoky veined marble, paired with understated custom millwork and finishes, add to the sense of lightness,’ says Champalimaud.

Her calming approach to design references an understanding of the big-city resident’s desire for serenity and understatement. With its commutable location and natural surroundings, 8 Deep Water Bay Drive’s aesthetic speaks of a ‘new luxury’. ‘Defined by craftsmanship, space and experience, luxury today is about subtlety. It’s the things that are not immediately obvious that speak volumes about a space. There’s a quiet intelligence to it.’

The intelligent approach continues with four bedrooms that boast custom leather and fabric wall coverings, statement pendant lamps, and welcoming neutral tones paired with striking metallics. ‘Every finish and piece of furniture used should be a deliberate choice,’ says the designer. ‘Good home design is timeless. It doesn’t adhere to a particular trend, but still has a focused point of view that gives the space a voice while allowing the occupier to make it their own.’