A Minimalist Mountain Retreat in Hong Kong
M.R. Studio has created an apartment that pays homage to minimalism but balances it with tasteful bespoke touches. Principal Myron Kwan tells us more
Design Anthology: How did you first meet the client?
Myron Kwan: The client was deeply impressed by our work on the Cupping Room project at the Palace Museum — she was so captivated by it that she reached out to us to discuss the possibility of designing her home.
Can you tell us about her and her lifestyle?
She’s a passionate advocate for interior design, having a background in the field herself. She enjoys a vibrant lifestyle, embracing travel, relaxation and the art of floral arrangement. Her husband shares her love for exploration, and together they delight in hosting dinner parties for their friends, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere in their home.
What was the project brief?
The client's vision was clear: she desired a space that exuded simplicity and tidiness, embracing a Scandinavian aesthetic with a focus on white hues. Her brief included a semi-open kitchen for her culinary pursuits and a dedicated area for relaxation and enjoying beverages.
What’s unique about the building and the location?
The apartment is situated in Mount Davis, and the balcony offers breathtaking views of lush greenery and the sparkling sea, creating a serene and inspiring environment.
Tell us about some of the material, art and furnishing choices.
To achieve the simplicity the client wanted, we carefully curated a limited palette of materials. The space features a special paint finish, warm oak timber, elegant travertine for the table, and bespoke lighting elements crafted from bronze and onyx.
Tell us about some of those bespoke pieces.
While the overall style is minimalist, we incorporated unique custom pieces to add character and sophistication. The dining area features a bespoke dining table crafted from white travertine, topped with a custom slope pendant. A bespoke artwork, also executed in special paint, graces the wall behind the table, creating a subtle yet striking contrast. In the bedroom is a bespoke pendant lamp with brass accents and a headboard crafted from creamy white leather with a sensual curve, adding a touch of vibrancy. And recognising the building’s age, we designed a custom window frame with a curved detail, which integrates the original windows into the contemporary design and subtly conceals any imperfections.
Do you have a favourite element or design detail?
We’re particularly fond of the floral stand incorporated into the TV cabinet. This simple yet elegant detail, crafted from round white travertine, serves as a platform for showcasing beautiful flowers, becoming a focal point within the space. The stand also creates a visual connection between the indoor and outdoor environments, seamlessly blending the greenery of the balcony with the interior design and evoking a sense of indoor-outdoor living.
Images by Steven Ko
