kong Archives

undulating canopy by new office works shelters waterfront promenade in hong kong

New Office Works’ canopy uplifts Cheung Sha Wan Promenade

New Office Works has introduced an undulating canopy to the Cheung Sha Wan waterfront promenade in Hong Kong. The structure is intended to offer shade and protection, resembling the aggregation of docked boats commonly seen along the harborfront. Positioned amidst a mix of older and newer developments on the west side of the Kowloon Peninsula, it links residential and commercial zones to the northwest with a wholesale food market to the southeast. As a part of a broader waterfront upgrade, it establishes connections between the pier and promenade and the city through three main pathways: an open-air route leading to the MTR station, a pathway through the neighboring hotel’s central courtyard, and a more secluded path next to the residential complex.

all images by Rory Gardiner

a Design taking its cues from Waterfront Heritage

The design of the canopy draws inspiration from the site’s history, particularly the active cargo offloading and the docking of boats around the pier. Divided into five shifting strips, the canopy allows for varied spatial experiences and promotes natural ventilation through well-placed voids. During the day, sunlight filters through the shelter, creating interesting light and shadow effects. At night, the interior lighting gives it a distinct profile floating above the water.

The canopy is built using a steel framework consisting of cylindrical columns and curved beams. Its highest section is positioned centrally, gradually declining in height on both sides. To avoid duplicating columns along the roof’s edge, the lower roof is hung from the higher one by a system of suspension rods. The upper roof is covered with a standing seam roof featuring grooves that accentuate its curved shape, while satin aluminum panels form the reflective ceiling below, mirroring the rippling water’s surface.

the canopy is inspired by docked boats and historic cargo activity

the design allows natural ventilation and light play

the steel framework is made with cylindrical columns and curved beams

Reference

Architecture

electric staircase and expandable platform modify meditation duplex in hong kong

By Zarkon Group,18/11/2023

Sim-Plex composes adaptable Meditation Duplex living space

The Meditation Duplex by Sim-Plex explores the integration of meditation spaces within compact urban living in Hong Kong. Addressing the desire for tranquility amidst hectic urban life, the project utilizes a transformable electric staircase and a detachable, expandable platform to create a flexible living and meditation space. The design accommodates various scenarios, allowing for a seamless transition between living and meditation modes. The concept particularly focuses on optimizing space and circulation in micro-unit living, often prevalent in densely populated areas. The clients, a young couple with specific lifestyle needs, influenced the project’s direction. Notably, the utilization of high ceilings for creating spacious areas and maintaining privacy became a central design consideration.

all images courtesy of Patrick Lam

Green Plants and Eco-Friendly Materials optimize living setting

The duplex incorporates smart technology for remote home management, enhancing energy conservation. The inclusion of green planting, environmentally friendly materials, and natural ventilation adds a touch of nature to the living environment. The detachable and expandable platform, made from E0 grade fine-grained plywood, ensures sustainability and facilitates easy relocation without waste. The design prioritizes high-capacity storage and diverse functionalities to prevent clutter in the open layout. Sim-Plex Studio also integrates sensory control and comprehensive voice control into the smart home features, providing a holistic approach to technology.

transformable space achieves a balance between urban life and tranquil atmosphere

the project addresses the limitations of micro-units in Hong Kong

flexible design utilizes smart technology for a versatile living experience

the design integrates meditation zones for contemplation in compact living spaces

floating resting area accommodates private spaces within a limited footprint

Reference

Interior Design

Linehouse designs coastal living for Cape Drive residence in Hong Kong

By Zarkon Group,25/10/2023

Chinese studio Linehouse has designed the interiors of Cape Drive Residence in Hong Kong to respond to the surrounding coastal views.

Located on the south side of Hong Kong Island, the three-floor home is a short walk from the beaches of Stanley and Chung Hom Kok and has panoramic ocean views to the east and west from its elevated position.

“The design harnesses a costal essence through materiality, light and an easy flow, seamlessly connecting the interior and exterior spaces,” Linehouse explained.

Linehouse Cape Drive residence — The home is located on the south side of Hong Kong Island with expansive ocean views

An open living area on the ground floor connects to the kitchen and dining space while an internal courtyard was inserted between theses areas and includes a centralised tree and surrounding seating.

The living area extends to the main terrace with full-height windows that frame the expansive ocean views.

Clad in stone, the terrace forms a sunken seating area with pockets of greenery surrounding it, which shelters the sea wind.

White timber louvers were used as a continuous ceiling plane in the living area which also extends to the terrace as a canopy.

“The design of the home reflects the relaxed and laidback lifestyle of a beach setting,” said the studio. “Warm tones, tactile surfaces and textures, a clean and simple material palette, and a seamless flow between inside and out.”

“Cape Drive Residence offers the fitting backdrop for coastal living,” it continued.

A warm oak timber staircase was punctuated by a shuttered screen that runs vertically through all levels of the home while arranging more private areas such as bathing and dressing.

The whitewashed timber material of the screen echoes the coastal location and reflects light through the spaces.

A white metal rod screen can be slide open at each level, offering transparency and light through different spaces.

Bedrooms, a second living area and a study were placed on the upper two levels, all with coastal views.

The same whitewashed timber material used on the shuttered screen was adopted to form storage, seating and shelving in these private spaces, providing a textural contrast to the hand-raked plaster walls.

The bathrooms add a fresh moment of colour into the space, using patterned tiles handmade in Portugal by Elisa Passino.

Linehouse was founded by Alex Mok and Briar Hickling in 2013 and the duo went on to win emerging interior designer of the year at the 2019 Dezeen Awards.

The studio has recently completed a guesthouse in Hong Kong that evokes the comfort of home and a Mediterranean restaurant in Shanghai with natural, tactile materials.

The photography is by Jonathan Leijonhufvud.

Project credits:

Design: Linehouse
Design principal: Briar Hickling
Design team: Ricki-Lee Van Het Wout, Cindy Pooh

Reference

Interior Design

MR Studio designs Hong Kong gym to “transport visitors to another world”

By Zarkon Group,22/10/2023

In Hong Kong’s fast-paced Central District, local practice MR Studio has modelled this fitness studio on a futuristic Martian dwelling to offer members an escape from their busy lives.

Gym Town‘s entryway and reception are finished entirely in an an earthy shade of orange, chosen to reflect the colours of Mars, while moody black workout areas were designed to allow visitors to focus on their individual health goals.

Entrance escalator of Gym Town in Hong Kong by MR Studio — Gym Town is entered via a dramatic escalator

“We wanted to create a unique and immersive experience for gym-goers,” MR Studio founder Myron Kwan told Dezeen. “The concept of Mars was chosen to represent escapism and a sense of adventure.”

“Inspired by Elon Musk’s vision of colonising Mars, we wanted to create a space that felt futuristic and cutting-edge.”

Lobby and reception of Gym Town — The gym’s reception doubles as a lounge

The studio created a bespoke sculptural lighting piece that can be seen from the street to create a sense of intrigue about the gym.

From the entrance, members are taken up to the lobby by an escalator. In a bid to make this ascent feel like an event, MR Studio turned the space into a tunnel-like “portal” that provides a sense of voyage.

Seating area in Hong Kong gym by MR Studio — Bespoke lights were modelled on satellite dishes

Around the escalator, the walls undulate to create a series of vertical ridges, designed to add depth and visual interest while suggesting walls that have buckled under the heat of the red planet.

“By using the tunnel-like form, we wanted to create a visually striking feature that would set the tone for the entire space,” Kwan said.

“The tunnel creates a sense of anticipation and excitement as guests enter,” he added. “The design itself aims to transport visitors to another world.

Skylight in Gym Town lobby — Decorative rocks are fixed to the ceiling

The escalator delivers members into a large reception area, arranged as a lounge with various seating areas.

One of the challenges of the project was the absence of natural light, which MR Studio addressed with a feature ceiling light.

Composed of concentric circles with an illuminated core, it suggests both a natural skylight and the crater-studded terrain of Mars.

Curves and circles feature heavily throughout Gym Town, from wavy walls and rounded furniture to lights inspired by the form of a satellite dish.

“Custom-made table lamps adorned with sleek metal finishes and cracked glass details capture the silhouette of high-gain antennas used in space exploration,” the studio explained.

The room is centred on a semi-circular brass-wrapped reception desk, which doubles as a bar during events or after-hours gatherings.

Bathroom inside Hong Kong gym by MR Studio — Rooms get progressively darker

The walls here feature the same dusty red-orange finish as the entrance tunnel, while decorative rocks are fixed to the ceiling.

“Envisioned as a modern Martian house, the space is painted in a textured monochromatic palette of tangerine, referencing the iconic red planet’s signature colour and rough terrain,” said Kwan.

“It adds vibrancy and warmth to the space, creating a visually intriguing element that complements the overall design theme.”

Workout area inside Hong Kong gym by MR Studio — The workout areas are finished in muted black and grey tones

Progressing into the changing rooms, workout areas and studios, the colour palette shiftsto more sober greys and blacks.

“To encourage members to fully devote to their fitness routines, the workout area is grounded in an organic and unpretentious style,” the studio said.

Overview of workout areas inside Gym Town — Orange accents delineate different areas

Gym Town has been shortlisted in the health and wellbeing interior category at this year’s Dezeen Awards.

Also in the running is the dusty-pink welfare centre of a boys’ school in Melbourne and a pediatric clinic in Seattle with “no blank walls”.

The photography is by Steven Ko.

Reference

Interior Design

Linehouse designs Hong Kong hotel to evoke the comfort of home

By Zarkon Group,12/05/2023

Shanghai-based interior studio Linehouse used natural materials and a muted colour palette to give the Ying’nFlo hotel in Wan Chai, Hong Kong, the feel of an inviting home.

The hotel occupies the podium of a 24-story tower on a hilly street in Hong Kong. Its ground floor holds a series of communal spaces that Linehouse designed to provide “home comfort” for guests.

Ying'nFlo Hong Kong by Linehouse — The ground floor comprises a series of rooms referencing living rooms

The Collectors Room, which greets guests at the entrance of the hotel, has a neutral palette of hand-rendered walls, timber paneling, and linen cabinetry that display curated objects and artworks. A communal oak table serves as a counter where guests can interact.

This room also connects to an outdoor terrace through sliding glazed doors. Built-in bench seating and an olive tree sit at the centre of the terrace and invite guests to relax and socialise.

A gridded timber screen leads further into the space through to the lift lobby and the Arcade room, where guests can gather to relax and play.

Soft-rendered walls, timber shutters and an eclectic mix of furniture create a sense of intimacy, while floor tiles in various geometrical motifs add a sense of playfulness.

Adjacent to the Arcade is the Music Room, the social hub of the hotel. Here, ceramic tiles, a bespoke oak shelving system, a custom sofa and curated art and lifestyle objects were added to evoke a sense of a residential living room.

The Music Room opens up to the Garden Terrace, where undulating greenery sits behind circular seating in yellow-striped fabric, a colourful contrast to the overall neutral colour palette of the Ying’nFlo hotel.

“The spaces are designed to have a warm, welcoming and familiar feel,” Linehouse said.

“Against this backdrop of curated simplicity is an edge of youthful attitude and local context, with vibrant elements giving the hotel its own unique flavour.”

The guest rooms of the Ying’nFlo hotel are located on the upper floor and feature ceilings painted in a muted green hue, which the same green tone used to frame window seating nooks and for the hand-glazed tiles in the bathroom and kitchen.

A clean palette of plaster, wood, white-washed oak and canvas add texture to the rooms. Seating nooks and lounge furniture serve multiple functions as spaces where guests can work, relax or dine.

Linehouse was founded by Alex Mok and Briar Hickling in 2013 and the duo went on to win emerging interior designer of the year at the 2019 Dezeen Awards.

The studio has recently completed a Mediterranean restaurant with natural, tactile materials, as well as a space-themed cafe decorated with real meteorites, both in Shanghai.

The photography is by Jonathan Leijonhufvud.

Project credits:

Design principle: Briar Hickling
Design team: Ricki-Lee Van Het Wout, Lara Daoud, Justin Cheung

Dezeen is on WeChat!

Click here to read the Chinese version of this article on Dezeen’s official WeChat account, where we publish daily architecture and design news and projects in Simplified Chinese.

Reference

Architecture

20 Best Architecture Firms in Hong Kong

By Zarkon Group,24/04/2023

Named the World City of Asia, Hong Kong is home to a diverse population that resides within a densely populated land mass. Covering a little over 1,000 k㎡, this Special Administrative Region maintains one of the most impressive skylines that is backdropped by a beautiful mountain range.

The region’s position as a global financial megahub has brought forth an influx of sophisticated skyscrapers, many of which have been built in the last two decades. The region has greatly evolved since it was relinquished by the British Crown, although some traces of its colonial and pre-colonial past remain visible today. Pre-colonial structures, such as stilt houses and walled villages, are extant (although a substantial amount of its Cantonese architecture was lost during the Second World War). Meanwhile, traces of Hong Kong’s British colonial period are still significant in today’s urban fabric.

As the region expands with world-class infrastructure, questions surrounding heritage conservation continue to play out. With a complicated colonial history, a strong economic agenda and a small landmass to work with, heritage conservation remains a hot topic of debate. What should remain and what can go? Nevertheless, architects in Hong Kong remain in accord on one objective: designing for the future.

With so many architecture firms to choose from, it’s challenging for clients to identify the industry leaders that will be an ideal fit for their project needs. Fortunately, Architizer is able to provide guidance on the top design firms in Hong Kong based on more than a decade of data and industry knowledge.

How are these architecture firms ranked?

The following ranking has been created according to key statistics that demonstrate each firm’s level of architectural excellence. The following metrics have been accumulated to establish each architecture firm’s ranking, in order of priority:

The number of A+Awards won (2013 to 2023)
The number of A+Awards finalists (2013 to 2023)
The number of projects selected as “Project of the Day” (2009 to 2023)
The number of projects selected as “Featured Project” (2009 to 2023)
The number of projects uploaded to Architizer (2009 to 2023)

Each of these metrics is explained in more detail at the foot of this article. This ranking list will be updated annually, taking into account new achievements of Hong Kong architecture firms throughout the year.

Without further ado, here are the 21 best architecture firms in Hong Kong:

20. Spawton Architecture

© ELENA GALLI GIALLINI Ltd - Architecture and Design

Hong Kong-based Spawton Architecture was established in 2013 by British architect, Alex Jones, to provide exceptional design services in both the architecture and interior realms.
Whether looking at new buildings or re-purposing and reusing existing structures, Spawton Architecture strives to provide high quality, contemporary design meeting both the clients’ brief and the end users’ needs.

Spawton Architecture focuses on all aspects of a project from the initial space planning to the minutest detail to maximise the final finish and add value to the scheme.
The studio is always open to collaboration with other architects and designers and as such, can undertake a wide variety of project typologies and scales.

Some of Spawton Architecture’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Spawton Architecture achieve 20th place in the 20 Best Architecture Firms in Hong Kong:

A+Awards Finalist	1
Featured Projects	1
Total Projects	3

19. Avoid Obvious Architects

With over 20 years of experience in architecture and urban planning, our award winning team deliver green buildings and sustainable cities to everyone. Avoid Obvious Architects have 15 awards with projects in 36 cities and 22 countries. They believe design excellence can improve the way we live, work and play. Holistic architecture that combines art and science will make good design for the people and the environment. Their design process will add value to your cities and investment. Their services include urban planning, architecture and interior design.

Some of Avoid Obvious Architects’s most prominent projects include:

The Artist House, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Street Basket for Walk DVRC, Hong Kong
Mahna Mahna, New York, NY, United States
FlashFly, New York, NY, United States
Organic Living, Guangdong, China

The following statistics helped Avoid Obvious Architects achieve 19th place in the 20 Best Architecture Firms in Hong Kong:

A+Awards Finalist	1
Featured Projects	1
Total Projects	11

18. Theo Texture

T X T is primarily an architectural, interior design + contracting firm, established in 2002, and is managed by experienced architects, designers and project managers with international experiences. Our design philosophy is based on a theo-centric worldview to create innovative, inspiring and outstanding spaces and forms of the 21st century. T X T believes that a design should be carried through from micro to macro scale. The “total design” concept has been applied to many of our projects as we provide design services that range from names, logos, graphics, signage, furniture, interiors, architecture to urban planning.

Some of Theo Texture’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Theo Texture achieve 18th place in the 20 Best Architecture Firms in Hong Kong:

A+Awards Finalist	1
Featured Projects	2
Total Projects	5

17. via.

Launched in 2009, via. is counted among Hong Kong’s most in-demand design studios. Within a ten-year span, via. has developed an impressive portfolio of retail, hospitality, commercial and residential projects. Led by founder Frank Leung, the client list includes leading developers, restaurant operators and hoteliers. The studio’s award-winning projects are defined by a logical, proportioned use of space, coupled with an appreciation for craftsmanship, creativity and comfort. Regardless of the project brief, each design reflects a refined sensibility, underscoring the relationship between simplicity and sophistication.

Some of via.’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped via. achieve 17th place in the 20 Best Architecture Firms in Hong Kong:

A+Awards Finalist	2
Featured Projects	1
Total Projects	14

16. Millimeter Interior Design

Millimeter Interior Design was established in 2007, specializing in professional residential and commercial interior design. Their primary focus lies in the quality of design, customer satisfaction and overall project management. After spatial planning, a functional analysis approach is adopted to achieve the very best results for our clients, well within time and budget.

Some of Millimeter Interior Design Limited’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Millimeter Interior Design Limited achieve 16th place in the 20 Best Architecture Firms in Hong Kong:

A+Awards Winner	1
Featured Projects	1
Total Projects	10

15. Lim + Lu

Lim and Lu is an award-winning inter-disciplinary interior design practice based in Hong Kong, initiated in New York City. Lim + Lu works internationally providing interior, branding, furniture and product design services. Lim + Lu’s designs, inspired by familiar images from everyday life, push the trend of individualization by presenting flexibility, practicality and a breath of fresh air in every project.

Some of Lim + Lu’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Lim + Lu achieve 15th place in the 20 Best Architecture Firms in Hong Kong:

A+Awards Finalist	1
Featured Projects	2
Total Projects	2

14. AFFECT-T

AFFECT-T is an abbreviation in closing: Affectionately. Often used by the artist Marcel Duchamp in his correspondence with friends and fellow artists. The studio uses the term as a guide to the relationship with the client and a central aim of built space and objects- to design and construct something which is viewed and experienced affectionately.

Some of AFFECT-T’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped AFFECT-T achieve 14th place in the 20 Best Architecture Firms in Hong Kong:

A+Awards Finalist	2
Featured Projects	2
Total Projects	4

13. OPENUU

OPENUU is an award-winning design research lab that focuses on Space Conversions and Design Collaborations. They design and create with an approach of playful pragmatism and are interested in creating supernormal moments by re-searching and re-arranging super normal, everyday notions. The studio creates to engage with people, and engages with people to create. openUU’s wide-ranged clientele includes: Swire Properties Management Limited, Osage Gallery & Art Foundation, Hong Kong Tourism Board, and Hong Kong Arts Centre.

Some of OPENUU’s most prominent projects include:

platform(1×2), Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Osage Open: Phase 1, Kowloon, Hong Kong
modelScape, Zhuhai, China
urbanUPLIFT, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
AL-wch, Hong Kong, Hong Kong

The following statistics helped OPENUU achieve 13th place in the 21 Best Architecture Firms in Hong Kong:

Featured Projects	4
Total Projects	9

12. TheeAe Architects

‘TheeAe’ is abbreviation of ‘The Evolved Architectural Eclectic’. The name means effort and dedication toward contextual beauties through place, history and culture of surroundings. TheeAe Architects pursue re-searching and re-defining elements that have been embedded or unseen so as to define the beauty of the architecture through design driven by context, evolved from rational notions and led toward unexpected discovery of nature.

To pursue this passion, they began their practice since 2011 in Hong Kong. The studio’s service has been extensively covered in various areas of architecture and interior design and master planning.

Some of TheeAe Architects LTD.’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped TheeAe Architects LTD. achieve 12th place in the 20 Best Architecture Firms in Hong Kong:

A+Awards Finalist	1
Featured Projects	3
Total Projects	27

11. Chinese University of Hong Kong, School of Architecture

The School of Architecture at the Chinese University of Hong Kong is a leading architecture school and group of creatives who have won several prestigious architecture awards.

Some of Chinese University of Hong Kong, School of Architecture’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Chinese University of Hong Kong, School of Architecture achieve 11th place in the 20 Best Architecture Firms in Hong Kong:

A+Awards Winner	2
A+Awards Finalist	1
Featured Projects	1
Total Projects	3

10. Rocco Design Architects

Rocco Design Architects is a Hong Kong-based architectural firm dedicated to the uncompromising fundamentals of architecture and practice. Their works are guided by a persistent attention to the quality of the total environment, sensitivity to local culture and contexts, fulfilling users’ needs and clients’ expectations, as well as adherence to construction budget and programmatic controls. There are 170 staffs in Hong Kong and Shenzhen. They have demonstrated a prowess for design creativity over the years, with an impressive body of work across a wide range of sectors. Many of these projects have been honored with prestigious local and international design awards.

Some of Rocco Design Architects Limited’s most prominent projects include:

Yunnan Museum , Kunming, China
Guangdong Museum, Zhu Jiang Lu, Yueqing Shi, Wenzhou Shi, China
Jiu Jian Tang, Shanghai, China
LHT Tower, Hong Kong Island, Hong Kong
Hotel ICON, Hong Kong, Hong Kong

The following statistics helped Rocco Design Architects Limited achieve 10th place in the 20 Best Architecture Firms in Hong Kong:

Featured Projects	5
Total Projects	9

9. LAAB Architects

LAAB is a laboratory for Art and Architecture dedicated to spatial innovations that firmly rooted in environmental and cultural contexts. From public space and public art to architecture and interior, their collective of architects, designers, engineers, makers and sociologists work together with forward-thinking clients and collaborators to bring visionary ideas to life.
Based in Hong Kong, our work has reached various global design communities, with recognition from Japan Good Design Award Best 100, German Red Dot and iF Awards, as well as American Institute of Architects International Region Awards.

Some of LAAB Architects’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped LAAB Architects achieve 9th place in the 20 Best Architecture Firms in Hong Kong:

A+Awards Winner	1
A+Awards Finalist	2
Featured Projects	3
Total Projects	8

8. One Plus Partnership Limited

© Jonathan Leijonhufvud Architectural Photography

Ajax Law and Virginia Lung established the Hong Kong-based interior design firm One Plus Partnership Limited in 2004. The design covers different interior scenarios such as cinemas, restaurants, retail stores, clubs, sales centers and commercial offices.

One Plus is good at spatial design driven by thematic concepts, and it makes a breakthrough and innovate each time during the design creation. Designers usually find a theme that fits with the project, then refine the expression of this theme, and finally make the visual experience appealing through artistic techniques.

In the past 19 years, One Plus has been totally awarded over 800 international awards: In 2012, One Plus was the sole winner of Andrew Martin the International Interior Design Awards – the International Interior Designer of the Year Award, the first ever Asia design company who has won this honor.

Some of One Plus Partnership Limited’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped One Plus Partnership Limited achieve 8th place in the 21 Best Architecture Firms in Hong Kong:

A+Awards Finalist	3
Featured Projects	4
Total Projects	34

7. 10 Design

10 Design, part of Egis Group, is an international architecture and master planning practice with offices in Hong Kong, Shanghai, Edinburgh, Dubai, Miami, London, Shenzhen, and Singapore. Founded in 2010, the practice has designed and delivered work in 60 cities across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and Americas. 10 Design has won over 80 international awards and major design competitions.

10 Design works at diverse scales, from the design of individual buildings to the planning of cities. The practice focuses on bringing innovative design solutions for multicultural projects, with economic and social integrity. Its works include large-scale mixed use development, retail, office, residential, hospitality, transport, education, cultural and civic projects.

Some of 10 Design’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped 10 Design achieve 7th place in the 20 Best Architecture Firms in Hong Kong:

A+Awards Finalist	1
Featured Projects	7
Total Projects	81

6. PANORAMA Design Group

Established in 2003, PANORAMA Design Group has been famous for creating unique story-telling spatial experiences of large-scale composite interior spaces. With headquarter in Hong Kong and local offices in China, the company’s project categories cover Hotel, Property Development, F&B, Retail, Kids, Health & Wellness and received over 150 international design awards including 2016 IDA Design Award “Interior Design of the Year”, 2021 Red Dot Award “Best of the Best”, 2022 HKDA Global Design Awards “Hong Kong Best” & 2022 Architizer A+Awards “Best Interior Design Firm”. Projects have been featured in numerous international design magazines & journals. Inspired by the unique spatial characters of Hong Kong, PANORAMA’s design team adopts boundary-crossing strategy to produce new propositions and unique experience for different typologies of “multi-purpose/composite spaces” to respond to Asia’s rapid-changing lifestyles.

Some of PANORAMA Design Group’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped PANORAMA Design Group achieve 6th place in the 20 Best Architecture Firms in Hong Kong:

A+Awards Winner	1
Featured Projects	6
Total Projects	14

5. LWK + PARTNERS

LWK + PARTNERS is a leading architecture and design practice rooted in Hong Kong, with 1,100+ creative minds collaborating across a strong global network of 12 offices to deliver world-class solutions to the built environment. With over 35 years of growth, the diverse design team at LWK + PARTNERS shares expertise to provide a wide range of services including architecture, planning & urban design, interiors, landscape, heritage conservation, building information modelling (BIM), brand experience and lighting design. LWK + PARTNERS believes that great design has infinite possibilities and directs positive impact to people’s lives. The practice is a member of C Cheng Holdings Limited (HKEX stock code: 1486).

Some of LWK + PARTNERS’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped LWK + PARTNERS achieve 5th place in the 20 Best Architecture Firms in Hong Kong:

A+Awards Finalist	1
Featured Projects	10
Total Projects	30

4. Orient Occident Atelier OOA

Orient Occident Atelier | OOA | 東西建築 is an interdisciplinary architectural, interior and urban design studio. We focus on discovering, researching and utilizing the interdependence of “objects” and connections with surrounding space as design inspirations. Design themes of OOA encompass modern interpretations of Eastern and Western aesthetics while integrating nature and function. We believe the intrinsic local culture and technology found at the project site should be respected. Through natural and synthetic materials, we research and develop new methods of architectural detail assembly.

OOA is committed to leveraging architectural design for the development of urban and rural villages with other professions on programs such as disaster prevention and relief. We design and build solutions to environmental and social problems with collaboration from government bodies and social enterprises.

Some of Orient Occident Atelier OOA’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Orient Occident Atelier OOA achieve 4th place in the 20 Best Architecture Firms in Hong Kong:

A+Awards Winner	2
A+Awards Finalist	2
Featured Projects	6
Total Projects	4

3. Architectural Services Department

The Architectural Services Department is a department of the Government of Hong Kong and is responsible for the design and construction of facilities throughout Hong Kong. The department’s three core functions are facility development, facility upkeep and monitoring and advisory services.

Some of Architectural Services Department’s most prominent projects include:

Hoi Ha Visitor Centre, New Territories, Hong Kong
Lung Mei Beach Bathhouse, Tai Po District, New Territories, Hong Kong
Beijing International Horticultural Exposition- Hong Kong Garden, Beijing, China
Crematorium in Wo Hop Shek, Hong Kong
Community Green Station, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, Hong Kong

The following statistics helped Architectural Services Department achieve 3rd place in the 20 Best Architecture Firms in Hong Kong:

A+Awards Winner	4
A+Awards Finalist	3
Featured Projects	12
Total Projects	23

2. Bean Buro

Bean Buro is an inter-disciplinary architectural design practice led by Lorène Faure and Kenny Kinugasa-Tsui, with a network of British and international collaborators to providing architecture, interior, installation, furniture and product design services. The diversity of the practice with its collaborators reinforces a core vision for the practice: to respond to the exchanges of global cultural narratives, incorporating overlapping design disciplines specializing in the social, economical and political production of urban spaces. We believe architecture is an emotional, spatial experience constructed by both the user and the author. Their design methodologies stem from the observation, speculation and analysis of contextual narratives.

Some of Bean Buro’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Bean Buro achieve 2nd place in the 20 Best Architecture Firms in Hong Kong:

A+Awards Finalist	1
Featured Projects	14
Total Projects	48

1. Ronald Lu & Partners

Ronald Lu & Partners (RLP), established in Hong Kong in 1976, is an award-winning practice specializing in architectural and interior design and master planning. The firm has completed and is engaged in wide variety of projects, including large-scale integrated urban developments, integrated transportation hubs, commercial buildings, residential developments, and cultural and public developments. RLP has received over 300 local and international accolades for its exceptional projects, in particular the SK Yee Healthy Life Centre, Ko Shan Theatre New Wing, KGV School, and China Resources Building. The firm was ranked 58th on bd’s list of top 100 architects in 2021. RLP has offices in Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Taipei, housing its strong team of over 550 professionals.

Some of Ronald Lu & Partners’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Ronald Lu & Partners achieve 1st place in the 20 Best Architecture Firms in Hong Kong:

A+Awards Winner	1
A+Awards Finalist	5
Featured Projects	15
Total Projects	28

Top image: Tsimshatsui Waterfront Revitalization by Ronald Lu & Partners, Hong Kong

Why Should I Trust Architizer’s Ranking?

With more than 30,000 architecture firms and over 130,000 projects within its database, Architizer is proud to host the world’s largest online community of architects and building product manufacturers. Its celebrated A+Awards program is also the largest celebration of architecture and building products, with more than 400 jurors and hundreds of thousands of public votes helping to recognize the world’s best architecture each year.

Architizer also powers firm directories for a number of AIA (American Institute of Architects) Chapters nationwide, including the official directory of architecture firms for AIA New York.

An example of a project page on Architizer with Project Award Badges highlighted

A Guide to Project Awards

The blue “”+”” badge denotes that a project has won a prestigious A+Award as described above. Hovering over the badge reveals details of the award, including award category, year, and whether the project won the jury or popular choice award.

The orange Project of the Day and yellow Featured Project badges are awarded by Architizer’s Editorial team, and are selected based on a number of factors. The following factors increase a project’s likelihood of being featured or awarded Project of the Day status:

Project completed within the last 3 years
A well written, concise project description of at least 3 paragraphs
Architectural design with a high level of both functional and aesthetic value
High quality, in focus photographs
At least 8 photographs of both the interior and exterior of the building
Inclusion of architectural drawings and renderings
Inclusion of construction photographs

There are 7 Projects of the Day each week and a further 31 Featured Projects. Each Project of the Day is published on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Stories, while each Featured Project is published on Facebook. Each Project of the Day also features in Architizer’s Weekly Projects Newsletter and shared with 170,000 subscribers.

We’re constantly look for the world’s best architects to join our community. If you would like to understand more about this ranking list and learn how your firm can achieve a presence on it, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at editorial@architizer.com.

Reference

Interior Design

Traditional Hong Kong diners inform interior of Bao Express in Paris

By Zarkon Group,14/02/2023

Design studio Atelieramo has completed a retro interior for a Chinese restaurant in Paris, featuring celadon-green walls and curvaceous wooden booths modelled on those found in Hong Kong diners from the 1970s.

Architect Tala Gharagozlou and designer Virginie de Graveron oversaw the interior concept for Bao Express, a restaurant near Bastille in the 11th arrondissement that serves dim sum and bao buns.

Wood-framed seating booths in Bao Express — Bao Express is a Chinese restaurant in Paris. Top photo by Géraldine Martens

Housed in a former button factory, the 500-square-metre space is divided into three areas: a bakery, a diner and a basement bar.

Atelieramo set out to create a series of distinct yet connected spaces that evoke the architecture and pop culture of 1970s Hong Kong – in particular its greasy spoon cafes, locally known as cha chaan tengs.

Wood-lined seating booth in Paris restaurant by Atelieramo — Diners can sit in the eatery’s cosy wood-lined booths

“We reinterpreted snippets of that vibrant Hong Kong urban atmosphere with its coloured pavings, pastel colours, neon lights and dense mix of patterns and motifs,” said the studio.

“The aim was not to create a decor but rather, with a playful nod to these references, create a new atmosphere distinct to Bao’s new space.”

Mint-green dining room of Bao Express restaurant in Paris — A larger skylit dining area is located in the rear. Photo by Géraldine Martens

The adaptation of the existing abandoned building involved significant alterations to the floor plates and structure, along with the addition of a new staircase and circulation.

From the street, customers enter a small bakery and cafe serving sweet and savoury snacks to eat in or take away. What appears as a simple neighbourhood cafe conceals the presence of the larger dining areas, which are set back in the building’s plan.

Pastel-hued staircase in Chinese restaurant by Atelieramo — A new staircase leads down to the basement bar. Photo by Bérénice Bonnot

The kitchens are visible from the street and guests walk past colourful crates of raw produce before passing through a metal curtain to reach the main Bao Express diner.

The long dining space features cosy booths with sinuous wooden frames. The pastel-green walls are contrasted with bespoke bright-red sconces and simple mosaic panels that echo the materials of the central bar.

Towards the rear of the building is a larger dining area topped with an expansive skylight. This bright and airy space is filled with plants that create the feeling of dining in a winter garden.

Exposed masonry walls painted in celadon-green form the basis for a playful colour palette featuring contrasting peach and pink elements as seen in the glossy tabletops.

Bar with hammered-metal ceiling in Bao Express restaurant in Paris — A hammered-metal artwork by SupaKitch decorates the ceiling in the bar

The studio’s eclectic use of colour and pattern extends to the geometric tiled floors and punchy black-and-white stripes that are painted on the walls of the staircase leading down to the basement bar Underpool.

This bar area features a hammered-metal ceiling installation by French artist SupaKitch, with a rippled surface that reflects the blue-green interior and creates the impression of looking up at an upside-down swimming pool.

Swimming pool ceiling installation in Chinese restaurant by Atelieramo — The artwork creates the impression of looking up at a swimming pool

Bao Express is part of a family of eateries in Paris owned by restaurateurs Céline Chung and Billy Pham. Atelieramo was responsible for designing several of the duo’s restaurants, each of which has a unique character inspired by different aspects of Chinese culture.

Another eatery informed by traditional cha chaan tengs is The Astor restaurant in Hong Kong’s Eaton hotel, designed by New York studio AvroKO, which mixes elements of the city’s diners and street food stalls with nods to the arthouse films of Wong Kar-Wai.

The photography is by Carole Cheung unless otherwise stated.

Reference

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20 Best Architecture Firms in Hong Kong

How are these architecture firms ranked?

20. Spawton Architecture

19. Avoid Obvious Architects

18. Theo Texture

17. via.

16. Millimeter Interior Design

15. Lim + Lu

14. AFFECT-T

13. OPENUU

12. TheeAe Architects

11. Chinese University of Hong Kong, School of Architecture

10. Rocco Design Architects

9. LAAB Architects

8. One Plus Partnership Limited

7. 10 Design

6. PANORAMA Design Group

5. LWK + PARTNERS

4. Orient Occident Atelier OOA

3. Architectural Services Department

2. Bean Buro

1. Ronald Lu & Partners

Why Should I Trust Architizer’s Ranking?

A Guide to Project Awards

Traditional Hong Kong diners inform interior of Bao Express in Paris

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