The Murray Hong Kong

Where:

Slap bang in the middle of Central Hong Kong, you will find this slick hotel surrounded by lots of green space and beautiful trees.

The 336-room hotel redesigned by Foster + Partners spans 25 floors and is a chic urban sanctuary.

Located along the legendary Cotton Tree Drive in Central, the hotel is near the green oasis of Hong Kong Park.

Back story

The iconic Murray Building was designed by British architect Ron Phillips in 1969. It was known for its award-winning architecture including its arches – which have been retained.

The former government building was given new life by a clever redesign and is now a fabulous hotel attracting the business and leisure market.

The ambitious project was completed in four years rather than the expected six.

History

Home to many Government departments for nearly half a century, the building retains elements of its award-winning architectural design.

There’s a nostalgic feel to it as you step through the doors but once inside, the wow factor sets in. The striking artwork is also impressive.

Rooms

Room space is usually tight in Hong Kong – but not at The Murray. Expect plenty of space in the chic rooms and suites with spectacular city views over Hong Kong. The oversized accommodation features uniquely recessed windows allowing abundant daylight without direct heat from the morning sun. It’s an architectural feature which has won countless awards for ground-breaking and energy-efficient design. Our spacious suite with elegant decor is a perfect haven from busy Hong Kong. There is a work area and comfortable couch. The decadent marble bathroom is huge with a stand-alone bathtub – perfect for soaking in and a shower recess. The bed is so comfortable it is hard to leave. The subtle colour scheme is punctured with bright pops of colour in the soft furnishings.

Features

The artwork both in and outside the hotel is impressive and memorable.

My favourites are the Gold Lips in Murray Lane Bar by Giuliano Bekor, Anna Church’s striking Impermanence-Career Girl in the lobby – it’s a zebra holding shoes. The two installations by South Korean artist Bahk Seon-Ghi made from charcoal and nylon thread are also amazing.

Dining

There are lots of options at The Murray, but our favourite is the hip rooftop bar and restaurant Popinjays, named after the resident cockatoos along neighbouring Garden Road, Hong Kong Park and Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens.

There’s a great vibe about the restaurant and outdoor bar that showcases panoramic city views. Creative cocktails conceived by expert mixologists are perfect for a hot evening and are also themed about birds. They include the Blue Macaw, a tropical fruit cocktail with a base of Pontelobos mescal, and Peking Order which is tom yum-infused rum with yuzu, elderflower, lime and mint soda.

For dinner the four or six course tasting plate is a wonderful culinary journey with striking presentation that tastes even better than it looks. Chef Didier Quennouelle creates his magic and uses seasonal produce. Highlights included the pan-seared ox-heart tomato truffle sorbet, King Langoustine Ravioli and beetroot chocolate ice cream.

Murray Lane

The lobby level cafe and bar are perfect for a drink or quick snack, the bar serves a selection of craft beers, premium spirits and wines, as well as gourmet small plates. Looking for an amazing afternoon tea experience? Head to the Garden Lounge where breakfast is also served.

Guo Fu Lou

One of the city’s most iconic Chinese restaurants is situated in a two-story pavilion, the restaurant features an intimate terrace for outdoor dining. It is known for its stylish interiors, meticulous service and outstanding gastronomy.

The Tai Pan

The Tai Pan serves international and pan-Asian classics. The contemporary menu features the finest produce from around the world, exceptional intuitive service and an exquisite wine list are hallmarks of the restaurant.

Fitness

Want to work off some kilojoules? There’s an in-room wellness guide, a convenient reference to inspire a healthier lifestyle while in Hong Kong.

It features the best jogging trails through the nearby green parks to specially designed gym

exercise programs, personal wellness and nutritional consultation and tailored super food

menus. There’s a heated lap pool in the spa area, with a wall of greenery on one side and sun lounges on the other, plus a large hot tub.

Spa

There are five luxe spa suites and two couple treatment suites with a private steam or sauna. A range of massage, treatment and beauty rituals featuring Grown Alchemist and Kerstin Florian products.

What to do

There is plenty to do close to The Murray with Hong Kong Park, the Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens close by.

The iconic Peak Tram is a two-minute walk away from the hotel, Tai Kwun, racecourse Happy Valley and Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts are also nearby.

What we loved

It is fabulous to see a building repurposed and done so well. The detail in the design is impressive as is the service and facilities. The artwork is intriguing and Popinjay’s cocktails the best.

Details

Hong Kong International Airport is about 30 minutes away by car, while the

Central MTR subway station is within a 10-minute walking distance.

Address:

22 Cotton Tree Drive, Central, Hong Kong

niccolohotels.com

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