The home’s commodious living area is characterised by expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that frame panoramic views of the River Thames and the London skyline
Cover The home’s commodious living area is characterised by expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that frame panoramic views of the River Thames and the London skyline
The home’s commodious living area is characterised by expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that frame panoramic views of the River Thames and the London skyline

Perched on the 37th floor of Thames City, one of London’s most prestigious riverside developments, this apartment by interior designer Dara Huang combines spa-like tranquillity with plush interiors for the ultimate sky-high retreat

Regarded as one of London’s most prestigious addresses, the 53-storey-high Thames City overlooks the River Thames at the heart of the upscale Nine Elms neighbourhood. Up on the 37th floor is a gorgeous residence crafted by award-winning interior design and architectural firm Design Haus Liberty, it is a spa-inspired sanctuary bathed in plush comfort, refined finishes and contemporary luxury.

As founder and interior designer Dara Huang reveals, the apartment was designed as a “sanctuary in the sky; the ultimate luxury tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city”. The residence adds to the designer’s portfolio of upscale high-rise projects, which include 56 Leonard Street in New York City, Tate Modern in London, and Manolo Blahnik stores around the world.

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A view of the luxurious living room, which features pieces from the designer’s own furniture line
Above A view of the luxurious living room, which features pieces from the designer’s own furniture line
A view of the luxurious living room, which features pieces from the designer’s own furniture line

Conceptualised as a roomy, open-plan oasis, the apartment is characterised by expansive glazing that frames spectacular views of the River Thames as well as the ever-popular London skyline.

Soft whites and creams contrast with deep, earthy tones, a thoughtful palette that draws in the greens of nearby parks and the white clouds above, evoking the sensation of levitating above the city in a bubble of tranquillity. These hues are complemented by textured wallpaper, natural materials such as stone and wood, and sumptuous fabrics such as tiger eye silk and cream suede, adding to the spa-inspired plushness.

Furniture from the designer’s own line, Dara Maison, populates the common areas of the home, accompanied by soft furnishings from high-end fashion houses such as Hermès, Loewe, Dior and Ralph Lauren.

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The lush yet intimate dining area
Above The lush yet intimate dining area
The lush yet intimate dining area

A striking drinks cabinet crafted out of brass elegantly separates the living and dining areas, while a discreet dividing wall forms a subtle boundary with the kitchen, thoughtfully partitioning the interconnected interiors while maintaining a sense of openness.

In the dining area, a marble table and bar draw the eye, grounding the room with their sculptural presence, which contrasts gently with the soft, curved edges of the neighbouring sofas.

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The home’s studio was designed as a tranquil study, with a statement oval table as the focal point
Above The home’s studio was designed as a tranquil study, with a statement oval table as the focal point
The home’s studio was designed as a tranquil study, with a statement oval table as the focal point

Key to the sumptuous and restful interiors are the apartment’s three bedrooms, which were artfully conceptualised to hold their own with characterful design while harmoniously aligning with the overarching visual language of the abode.

Chequered wood-grain wall panels, a shell-shaped chandelier, a padded velvet headboard and an antique mirror all feature in the softly lit master suite, which exudes an intimate, lush retro vibe that brings to mind nostalgic speakeasy locales.

The first guest bedroom is clad in the sophistication of French retro design, accented with subtle African prints that lend warmth, movement and flair to the space. The second guest bedroom keeps things more streamlined, embodying timeless, quiet luxury with an understated palette of vanilla, cream and soft neutrals.

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An artful thread runs down this corridor
Above An artful thread runs down this corridor
An artful thread runs down this corridor

Beyond the three rooms, the apartment prioritises a versatile studio conceptualised as a study, with the possibility of converting it into a fourth bedroom. Central to the studio is an oval Samantha Table by Dara Maison, chosen for its light hue and generous proportions. A large painting, Marble 5 by Arran Rahimian, hangs behind the desk, forming an abstract backdrop for virtual meetings.

With the possibility of work-from-home and remote arrangements as a consideration during the design process, this meticulously crafted study is a point of pride for the firm, framing enhanced productivity as an extension of well-being.

Paired with the verdant greenery that surrounds the property—including a 5.7-hectare park that runs from Vauxhall to the Battersea Power Station—each elegant, conducive space in the apartment serves to cocoon the owners in an oasis of privacy and relaxation, a sanctuary in the clouds away from the bustle of city life.

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Photo 1 of 3 The apartment’s three bedrooms were each designed to radiate a unique character, the first bedroom in the style of retro speakeasies
Photo 2 of 3 The second bedroom speaks of quiet luxury and timeless elegance
Photo 3 of 3 The third bedroom is inspired by French retro design, accented with subtle African prints
The apartment’s three bedrooms were each designed to radiate a unique character, the first bedroom in the style of retro speakeasies
The second bedroom speaks of quiet luxury and timeless elegance
The third bedroom is inspired by French retro design, accented with subtle African prints

Credits

Photography: Zhou Yu Xiang

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