Stern and steely, Hong Kong’s iconic Murray Building at the famous Cotton Tree Drive stood formidably as a government office building from 1969 to 2011. With its glory days long past, the vacancy of the 25-storey tall building called for a much-needed refurbishment, and refreshed it was. The plan was simple, keep the building in commission by turning it into a luxury hotel, but the process was not without its own trials and tribulations.

Despite its ripe old age, the building’s architecture was already ahead of its time. Ron Phillips, the architect behind the original building, designed the fins on each side of the building to block direct sunlight.

Prominent design elements had to be preserved as part of the government’s “Conserving Central” initiative, so additional features had to adhere to the architectural language of the existing structure. This ensured the majestic building maintained its ambience that is so deeply rooted in Hong Kong’s history while embracing a modern makeover in tandem with current trends.

Starting from the ground, the project reconnected the building with the city. Guests can saunter through the building’s entrance under its lofty arches, adding a welcoming touch to a previously desolate carpark, which only knew the tires of motor vehicles.

This article was written by Khoo Yong Hao. Read the full story at www.mens-folio.com here.