“Light is the giver of all presences.” — Louis Kahn. This profound philosophy seems to deeply resonate within the design of Xuhui Bolly Mansion, a stunning new project on the tranquil banks of the Wei River in Xi’an’s Qinhan New City. Far removed from the city’s hustle and bustle, this collaboration between WJ STUDIO and Xuhui isn’t just about building homes; it’s about reimagining contemporary living as a serene, “holiday retreat.”

The brilliant team at WJ STUDIO (萬境设计) truly captured the essence of how modern Xi’an residents live, blending different functions into one cohesive and inviting space. Their approach aimed to create a home that’s both poetic in its concept and incredibly practical, a genuine sanctuary away from the daily grind.

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Symbiosis of Scenes: Redefining the Vacation Lifestyle

This 380 sqm townhouse, designed as a true second home, completely shakes up traditional room divisions. It’s not just a “container for living”; it’s a dynamic stage for all sorts of life scenarios.

Take the ground floor, for instance, which houses the living room and a tearoom. The living room boasts a soaring 4.6-meter ceiling, giving it a fantastic sense of vertical space. Its L-shaped layout cleverly connects areas for entertaining guests, hosting formal dinners, enjoying quiet tea ceremonies, and soaking in the scenic views outside. The elegant, white Limo Paper sofa anchors the space, its clean lines embodying modern design while subtly reflecting that beautiful Eastern philosophy of “less is more.” You’ll also spot an exquisite ceramic platter by local artist Wu Jingwen, artfully placed on the coffee table – a lovely touch.

Tucked away behind a beautifully crafted wooden screen in the living room is a delightful surprise: a sliding door that reveals a serene, Zen-inspired tearoom. The designers drew inspiration from “The Classic of Tea” (《茶经》), choosing elegant Danish CPH Sphere series vases with delicate pine needle arrangements and that gorgeous wooden screen to craft a meditative spot. It’s a place where “a pot of tea meets a scenic view” – perfect for quiet contemplation.

A graceful spiral staircase leads up to a private artistic haven, exclusively for the lady of the house. Here, a pristine white curved sofa blooms like a delicate flower, and a striking deep-red accent chair perfectly complements a nearby portrait of a woman, radiating pure elegance. This mezzanine level truly feels like a personal art gallery, a perfect spot for reflection and creative indulgence.