Tomson Riviera: A Modern Oriental Masterpiece

Ben Wu's Award-Winning Design Merges Luxury with Oriental Charm

Tomson Riviera, the most expensive mansion in China, has been transformed into an international luxury mansion with oriental spiritual value by renowned designer Ben Wu. This article explores the unique design elements, inspiration, and the challenges faced during the realization of this modern oriental masterpiece.

Ben Wu's inspiration for the design of Tomson Riviera stemmed from the desire to highlight the luxury of the mansion while infusing it with a modern oriental life language. The staircase, moving from an inconspicuous area to an intuitive view of the Huangpu River, is a testament to this vision. Covered with dark oak finish on the outside and white cowhide on the inside steps, it lends an excellent texture to the space.

The mansion, located in the core of Lujiazui financial center, is unique in its design and functionality. Wu's design not only retains the mansion's original luxury but also gives it a brand-new modern oriental life language. The design includes five fully functional suites and a restaurant moved to the area near the river, emphasizing the mansion's position of ritual.

The design realization technology used in the mansion is a testament to Wu's innovative approach. The vestibule is surrounded by virtual and real perforated metal plates, surrounding the miniature indoor water features. The main hall features a 6-meter high limestone wall with soft curves, and the background wall is inspired by the dome of the palace, completely wrapped in leather.

Technical specifications of the design include a storage system of approximately 120 square meters and a movable locker room. The design ensures that the shared spaces maintain a grand and delicate temperament, while the daily needs of each family member are fully satisfied. The design demonstrates a caring attitude towards people in all respects.

Despite the challenges, Wu successfully channeled the Oriental spirit for the Tomson Riviera. The penthouse features expansive whitespace and Oriental charm, poetically expressing the concept of “Modern Oriental”. This was achieved by drawing upon the cultural power and poetic experience accumulated by Chinese gardens, then reconstructing the poetic practically for contemporary daily dwelling.

The design was awarded Silver in A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2021. This prestigious award is rewarded to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that illustrate outstanding expertise and innovation. These designs, admired for their strong technical characteristics and splendid artistic skill, showcase a remarkable level of excellence and introduce positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Ben Wu
Image Credits: Image #1 Tomson Riviera by Sicong Sui Image #2 Tomson Riviera by Sicong Sui Image #3 Tomson Riviera by Sicong Sui Image #4 Tomson Riviera by Sicong Sui Image #5 Tomson Riviera by Sicong Sui
Project Team Members: Ben Wu
Project Name: Tomson Riviera
Project Client: Ben Wu


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