Hong Kong Houzz Tour: A Flat That Exudes Mid-Century Minimalism
The playful graphical use of material patterns accentuates this streamlined and stylish home with glorious views
Located in Pok Fu Lam, at the west of Hong Kong island, this spacious two-bedroom flat sits within an exclusive residential enclave noted for its quiet, green living environment. Every window boasts a view, which is emphasised by keeping the home’s design to the minimalist end.
“The owners gave us total freedom on the design. We went for mid-century modern, just for the love of it,” says YC Chen, founder and creative director of Hong Kong-based interior design firm hoo. By reconfiguring some of the areas, Chen was able to build on the idea of having more open and light-filled spaces.
“The owners gave us total freedom on the design. We went for mid-century modern, just for the love of it,” says YC Chen, founder and creative director of Hong Kong-based interior design firm hoo. By reconfiguring some of the areas, Chen was able to build on the idea of having more open and light-filled spaces.
Dark-hued, full-height cabinetry borders one side of the dining area, creating storage options, and a dramatic visual frame for the dining table.
Dining table: Carl Hansen & Son; chairs: Vitra, Carl Hansen & Son, OneCollection; lamps: ClassiCon
Dining table: Carl Hansen & Son; chairs: Vitra, Carl Hansen & Son, OneCollection; lamps: ClassiCon
Across the dining area is the enclosed kitchen. In the original floor plan, the fridge was slated to occupy this space. Chen opted to re-arrange the layout so that the sink and cooking areas are nearer the window. This way, the kitchen receives more light – and a refreshing view of Hong Kong Island’s green scenery to boot.
The other side of the kitchen is decked in grey tiles, warm grey oak laminate, and white-tiled wall.
One of the best features of this home is its view of the mountainous terrain. Simple gauzy drapes allow the family to relish the view, as well as allow daylight to permeate the living space.
One of the owners’ requirements was to make the house child-friendly. The designer responded by selecting cushy seating and tables with rounded corners for the living space. The overall laid-back style makes the space a great spot for the family to lounge and relax together.
Sofa: Living Divani; lounge chair: Herman Miller; coffee table: &tradition
Sofa: Living Divani; lounge chair: Herman Miller; coffee table: &tradition
Chen also carved out a discreet storage niche below the wall-mounted TV for the audio-visual peripherals. Some of the owner’s prized Be@rbricks collection take their spot here as well, safely displayed behind a glass enclosure.
The child’s room captures the same modern minimalist style as the living spaces, with its pale grey walls and light wood toddler bed and flooring.
His play area is simply dressed with an area rug in a colourful geometric print.
For a more youthful vibe, Chen designed a low console with colour-blocked fronts for the child’s books and toys. It can also double as a bench where the child can read and play.
More graphic prints can be seen in the common bathroom. The monochrome palette gives a modern, classy look to the compact space, with its walls and flooring finished in honeycomb mosaic tiles.
Entering the master suite, one immediately gets a glimpse of the black-and-white cabinetry that spans the width of the bedroom. Chen decided to take the sink out of the bathroom and incorporate an open wash and vanity area within the bedroom. “This is to give more space to the shower area,” says Chen. The reconfigured layout also made way for a bigger walk-in wardrobe area.
Adjacent to the sleeping area is the walk-in wardrobe that is enclosed by textured glass sliding doors.
An open concept with exposed hanging rods and shelves makes it easy for the couple to see and access their everyday and seasonal clothes, and designer bags. A large dresser keeps everything else neatly tucked away.
Like the living area, the master bedroom enjoys the sought-after mountain view.
A grey accent wall adds depth to the pristine white setting, while streamlined furniture enhances the restful ambience. Once again, the designer didn’t go ‘matchy-matchy’ with the lighting for the night tables – a hanging lamp for one side, and a table lamp for the other.
Bedside tables: Vitra, Gray&Turner; table lamps: Louis Poulsen
Bedside tables: Vitra, Gray&Turner; table lamps: Louis Poulsen
TELL US
What is your favourite feature in this home? Share in the Comments below.
What is your favourite feature in this home? Share in the Comments below.
Who lives here: A family of three
Location: Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong
Size: 1,020 square feet (111 square metres)
Project duration: 4 months
The main door gives a glimpse of the home’s stylish yet personalised flair, through a gold rendition of the family emblem. “It was actually designed for the owners’ wedding a few years ago,” says Chen.
A quick left turn from the main entrance reveals the dining area. To keep things interesting, the designer chose different mid-century modern chairs, Sebastian Henkner’s Bell Lights, and framed graphic prints. Additionally, the pale, engineered wood flooring is laid out in a herringbone pattern, to add texture to the room.