Once a K-beauty cult favourite, the cushion foundation has returned to the spotlight, evolving from its origins as a skincare-makeup hybrid into a modern must-have that blends convenience, innovation, and inclusivity. As the beauty world embraces multifunctional, skin-loving formulas, the new Tom Ford Architecture Soft Matte Blurring Cushion Foundation with SPF 40/PA+++ stands at the intersection of trend and technology, redefining what a foundation can be in 2025. This isn’t just makeup—it’s a quiet luxury statement disguised as a compact.
What makes this particular cushion foundation so compelling? It’s all in the details. While other brands chase the glossy, dewy finish that made cushions famous, Tom Ford has gone in a completely different direction. Their approach is architectural—hence the name—treating your face like a canvas that needs structure, not just coverage. The result is a soft-matte finish that somehow manages to blur imperfections while maintaining that coveted second-skin feel.
First Impressions: Luxury You Can Hold
Opening the compact feels like unwrapping a piece of jewellery. The mahogany-toned case features Tom Ford’s signature T-design, and honestly, it’s the kind of compact you’d be proud to pull out during a dinner date. But the real innovation lies beneath the surface: a specially developed dome cushion paired with a teardrop sponge that’s designed to work with the contours of your face.
The dome shape isn’t just for show—it’s actually quite brilliant. Unlike flat cushions that can make product pickup tricky as you near the bottom, this raised design ensures you can access nearly every drop of foundation—no more frustrated tapping when you’re running low.
The texture itself is where things get interesting. It’s mousse-like but never heavy, blending seamlessly with a soft-focus finish that flatters without looking artificial. Think of it as Instagram’s blur filter, but for real life—and one that lasts all day.
The Technology Behind the Blur
What sets the Tom Ford Architecture Soft Matte Blurring Cushion Foundation apart from other cushion formulas is its commitment to performance. We’re talking 24-hour wear, SPF 40/PA+++ protection, and a formula that laughs in the face of Singapore’s humidity. The super-fine pigments create coverage that’s buildable without ever looking cakey—a particularly impressive feat for a matte formula.
The soft-matte finish is where Tom Ford really shows their expertise. Instead of the flat, powdery matte that can age you instantly, this formula maintains just enough suppleness to look natural. It’s matte enough to control shine but soft enough to move with your skin throughout the day.
Available in nine carefully curated shades, the range feels intentional rather than overwhelming. Each tone is designed to complement real skin, not create an entirely new face, which is exactly what you’d expect from a brand that understands the art of subtle luxury.
Application: A Ritual Worth Mastering
Getting the most out of this foundation is all about technique, and honestly, the process feels almost meditative. Start with clean, prepped skin—this foundation rewards good prep work. The key is in the patting motion: gentle taps with the teardrop sponge, building coverage gradually from the centre of your face outward.
The beauty of the cushion format really shines during touch-ups. Unlike liquid foundations that require a full reapplication process, you can simply pat this over your midday shine without disrupting the base underneath. It’s particularly effective on the T-zone, where oil tends to break through first.
For those who prefer more coverage, the formula layers beautifully without looking heavy. And if you’re someone who likes to customise your finish, a light dusting of translucent powder will lock everything in place, while a hydrating mist can add back some dewiness if you’re feeling the matte look is too intense.
The Perfect Timing: Tom Ford’s Singapore Moment
The launch coincides beautifully with Tom Ford Beauty’s expanded presence at Paragon, where their impressive two-story, 426-square-meter flagship showcases not just cosmetics but the full Tom Ford lifestyle. In this setting, the Architecture Soft Matte Blurring Cushion Foundation feels right at home—it’s sophisticated enough for the boutique’s refined atmosphere while practical enough for Singapore’s demanding climate.
Why This Matters Now
In a beauty landscape saturated with options, what makes another foundation launch worth your attention? It’s the thoughtful execution. Tom Ford hasn’t just created a cushion foundation; they’ve reimagined what the format can be when luxury meets functionality.
The soft-matte finish addresses a real gap in the market—most cushion foundations lean dewy, which isn’t always practical for our climate or professional settings. The 24-hour wear claim isn’t just marketing speak; it’s backed by a formula that actually delivers on its promises.
The Verdict
The Tom Ford Architecture Soft Matte Blurring Cushion Foundation represents everything good about the current state of beauty innovation. It takes a beloved format and refines it with luxury materials, thoughtful design, and genuine performance benefits. Whether you’re a cushion foundation convert or a sceptic curious about the hype, this particular interpretation makes a compelling case for why the format has staying power.
At its core, this isn’t just makeup—it’s architectural precision for your face, packaged in a compact that feels like a luxury accessory. In a world of endless beauty launches, sometimes the most impressive products are the ones that simply do what they promise, exceptionally well.