A Tong Lau Revisited
Root Design pays homage to Hong Kong’s distinct corner tong lau in this charming renovation project that remains faithful to the home’s original architectural features and triangular layout
When local studio Root Design took on this home renovation project in Hong Kong’s Tin Hau neighbourhood, the designers were faced with the challenges of preserving the apartment’s original corner tong lau architecture and adapting to its triangular layout — two major constraints they took as a creative prompt and turned into the home’s strengths.
‘Tong lau’ — Hong Kong’s iconic tenement buildings built in the mid-nineteenth century — can still be seen in many parts of the city, but corner tong lau, which feature a curved facade at the junction of two roads, have become rarer sights. ‘One of the owners has lived in this house since he was a child, and hence wanted to preserve the original features of this corner tong lau as much as possible while giving it a new look,’ explains Angelina Anya Wu, design director at Root Design.
The 70-square-metre unit’s original layout included imposing concrete columns and beams that obstructed the space and posed a significant design challenge. Instead of concealing them, however, the designers made the bold choice of leaving them bare, thereby defining the apartment’s distinct grid-like structure. ‘We chose to let the columns appear naturally as we wanted to keep the space undisturbed and in harmony with the existing structure,’ Wu says.
A spacious open-plan dining and living area was strategically placed along the large windows to take advantage of the abundance of natural light. Connected to the dining space via translucent windows, the kitchen is now the centre of the triangular home. ‘Our goal was to arrange each area in a spacious and functional way,’ Wu says. ‘We designed it with a minimalist approach, creating a clean and harmonious atmosphere that emphasises the home’s original architectural features.’
Simple and modern furnishings bring a sense of refinement, while natural tones and smooth textures were chosen to balance the rough concrete columns that figure throughout the space. ‘We used wood, terrazzo and concrete, which give the interior a highly tactile feel,’ Wu explains. ‘The different materials blend together perfectly thanks to their matt finish.’
The apartment’s heft is balanced by the lightness and minimal modernity of the interiors, a result achieved through bold design choices and skilful spatial planning.
Text / Nina Milhaud
Images / Hue Finder
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