KUALA LUMPUR: An Australian-owned design company, Kerry Phelan Design Office (KPDO), unveiled and launched the newly renovated Tung Fat Building in Kennedy Town, Hong Kong, on Nov 3. The project is KPDO’s first in Hong Kong.

The company renovated what was originally a 1960s art-deco low-rise tong lau (tenement buildings) into eight luxury apartments, which also involved restoring its façade. Located on Kennedy Town’s waterfront in the western district of Hong Kong Island, it boasts four spacious floors, large windows, tall ceilings and views of the Hong Kong Harbour.

“In a city like Hong Kong, there is growing concern that a heritage building may be lost. We therefore tried to restore rather than redevelop the Tung Fat Building, in particular its original iconic façade,” said the director of architecture at KPDO Stephen Javens in a press statement recently.

The company worked to preserve elements such as the cast terrazzo handrail and mouldings. The faded exterior was remodelled and restored to a gleaming black and white structure, while keeping the building’s retro-chic look. Meanwhile, the interior of the building is modern with textured timber floors.

“Hong Kong is a city where spaciousness is essential, especially when working and living in confined spaces. We wanted the apartments to be sanctuaries from the bustle of a congested city, so we made sure occupants would enjoy spacious living areas,” said KPDO founder Kerry Phelan.

The units are for rent only and will be available for a two-year lease. Depending on the lease, the units will be either furnished or non-furnished. Prices will be based on the current rental market and have yet to be determined.

The company is targeting affluent individuals, including young professionals looking to rent a flat in Kennedy Town.

The company has a team of interior designers and architects in Melbourne. They provide a broad range of skills ranging from conceptual architecture and interior design to product research, custom furniture design, and project planning and implementation.

Notable projects in the company’s portfolio include Jia Shanghai, Botanical in Melbourne, as well as Beresford and Ivy (both in Sydney). The company also has several projects in the pipeline in Hong Kong as it plans to expand into Asia.

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This article first appeared in The Edge Financial Daily, on November 14, 2014.

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