Rising above the historic waterways of Guangzhou’s Bai’e Tan, One Swan Bay presents a refined interpretation of contemporary oriental living.
The residence occupies a privileged position at the confluence of three rivers, facing the Canton Tower and the East and West Pagodas. This meeting point of water, culture and urban energy forms the backdrop for a project that blends modernity with the enduring spirit of Lingnan heritage.
A contemporary post‑Lingnan expression
Designed collaboratively by Steve Leung Design Group (SLD) and Steve Leung Lifestyle (SLL), One Swan Bay translates the fluidity of ancient waterways and the cultural depth of Lingnan into a contemporary spatial language.
The interiors balance minimalist modernity with expressive natural imagery, forming a sophisticated urban texture where historical and contemporary elements coexist. The result is a residence that feels rooted in place while distinctly forward‑looking.
The Sky Club House: A dialogue with the three rivers
Perched on the top floor, the Sky Club House is the project’s defining landmark. Its 270‑degree panorama opens onto the Pearl River and Guangzhou’s skyline, immersing guests in a sweeping visual experience.
The journey begins at the ground‑floor lobby, where natural light, river views and curated installations unfold gradually. The lift lobby introduces the aquatic narrative: ultra‑thin translucent stone panels glow softly, while a custom wave‑patterned wooden veneer wraps the lift cabin. Upstairs, curved grey‑blue walls ripple like moving water, guiding visitors toward the expansive river view that reveals itself as the doors open.
Inside the Sky Club House, wave‑shaped blue ceramic walls, a black mirror‑finish ceiling and Bulgari Black Stone flooring create a contemporary yet poetic atmosphere. Designed to host concerts, showcases and private gatherings, the space balances golden light with cool blue tones, achieving a serene sense of luxury.
A turn leads to the reception area, anchored by a striking gold‑leaf mural created by SLL artisans. Inspired by Panorama of Guangzhou Port, the artwork revives the historic commercial vibrancy of the Pearl River through engraving and hand‑painted detail, forming a dialogue between cultural memory and modern design.
The cantilevered unit: A modern family sanctuary
One of the signature layouts at One Swan Bay, the Cantilevered Unit spans four bedrooms, two living rooms and four bathrooms, with river views on three sides. A black‑and‑white palette establishes a calm foundation, while red accents introduce warmth and energy.
The lift lobby continues the refined materiality of the public areas with walnut veneer, Bulgari Black Stone and Camus White flooring. A slender red bench adds a focal point, setting a gentle prologue to the home.
Inside, a 120m² living‑dining space forms a “river‑view salon”. A wave‑patterned Dover White Stone wall echoes the rhythm of the river, while a gradient burgundy carpet subtly defines zones for gathering and quiet retreat.
Furniture selections reflect a contemporary oriental sensibility: Steve Leung x HC28 sofas, Arclinea cabinetry and premium stone finishes create a balance of function and refinement.
The master bedroom pairs an off‑white and wood palette with vibrant checkered wallpaper and a red bench, while the ensuite bathroom, clad in Red Jasper Stone, overlooks the river. A secondary bedroom includes a peaceful riverside work nook where the horizon merges sky and water.
The Standard Unit: Tranquil elegance with a sky terrace
The Standard Unit mirrors the four‑bedroom layout and features an expansive 30‑metre L‑shaped sky terrace. This outdoor edge frames uninterrupted river views and fills the interior with natural light.
Inside, walnut wood and Di Garl Stone set a refined tone. The living‑dining area is anchored by an avatar green stone TV wall, while the terrace extends the space outward.
A dual Western‑Chinese kitchen supports both daily living and entertaining. Soft grey walls, pale green furnishings and timber floors create a restful, understated environment.
The master bedroom continues this calm palette with artisanal wall coverings and pale green accents, forming a serene retreat.
A timeless urban legacy
One Swan Bay stands as a contemporary expression of family life shaped by history, culture and modern refinement. Every material, spatial gesture and artwork reflects SLD’s interpretation of a lasting legacy—where the flow of rivers, the depth of Lingnan culture and the clarity of modern design converge.
From the bold textures of the Cantilevered Units to the quiet elegance of the Standard Units, One Swan Bay establishes a new benchmark for urban residences in Guangzhou: a place where the city’s past and present meet in a seamless, enduring composition.
Photos: Ye Song / Courtesy of Steve Leung Designers (SLD)
