Taking inspiration from the stunning scenery of the South China Sea and the rich history of the neighbouring Aberdeen district, The Fullerton Ocean Park Hotel Hong Kong is designed to connect with nature seamlessly, a true rarity in the urban landscape of Hong Kong.
The Fullerton Ocean Park Hotel Hong Kong is the first property of The Fullerton Hotels and Resorts in Hong Kong and the first resort in its portfolio. Staying true to the hallmark of the brand, the hotel design evokes tranquillity with a relaxing ambience whilst upholding heritage, respect for local culture, elegance and luxury the Fullerton brand is known for.
Internationally-acclaimed architectural firm Aedas – responsible for the revitalization of iconic edifices in Hong Kong’s Central district – designed the hotel’s mesmerising glass facade. The curved, flowing design of the twin towers and cascading podium with rolling waves in marine tones, echoes the beauty of the sea, giving the hotel a timeless and elegant aura.
Indoor and outdoor space merge seamlessly at The Fullerton Ocean Park Hotel Hong Kong, evoking the feel of being in a tropical paradise. The multi-layered outdoor podium offers a distinct experience at every level – a seaside walkway for nature-lovers to bask in a leisurely stroll; a spacious lawn decked with swing seats, paddle cars and marine-themed playground installations; as well as an infinity pool and kids’ lagoon for families to relax and unwind.
Jerome Wong, Executive Director of Aedas says, “The Fullerton Ocean Park Hotel Hong Kong is situated in a location with a beautiful landscape, so we created an architectural design focusing on connecting guests with nature by ensuring all 425-guest rooms are ocean-facing, with floor-to-ceiling windows that bring in abundant natural light, and creating interior and exterior spaces that perfectly blend in with the natural surroundings.”
Guided by their philosophy of ‘placemaking,’ BLINK Design Group curated the hotel interiors in a three-part design journey that sought to create tranquillity in a luxury getaway, taking inspiration from local history and sailing culture in the southern coast of Hong Kong. BLINK is the luxury hospitality architecture and design firm behind some of the most breathtaking hotels and resorts in the world.
The Fullerton Ocean Park Hotel Hong Kong experience begins with a dramatic sense of arrival. Steep hills and lush greenery frame the entrance, with warm-coloured timber portals marking the hotel’s drop-off point. The first floor, which includes the reception area and two of the hotel’s dining concepts, was designed to create a sense of home. Nature-inspired materials in warm tones and lush, tropical foliage are integral in this iconic space, designed as the hotel’s “living room.” The Lighthouse Lounge features a 7.3m-high ceiling and panoramic view of the South China Sea, effortlessly blending the boundless expanse of the ocean. Handmade sisal-like rugs add a natural touch, tied-in by nautical-themed throw pillows.
“We love to create designs that tell the story of a place and the spirit of the brand. In this project, we took elements from The Fullerton Hotels and Resorts’ global portfolio of properties to bring to life the unique stories of old Hong Kong sailing culture, Singapore’s diverse exploration of culture, the elegant intrigue of Sydney’s old CBD, and most importantly, an exploration of marine biodiversity in Ocean Park using refined design elements. Guests at The Fullerton Ocean Park Hotel Hong Kong will discover expertly selected textures and patterns all telling the story of local heritage and the district’s lush vegetation – from stunning patterns on screens and woven rattan finishes to bohemian chic, eclectic accents and objects d’art,” says Clint Nagata, Founder of BLINK Design Group.
The journey of discovery marches into a curated immersion on the second floor, where Jade, a Cantonese fine-dining restaurant originating from The Fullerton Hotel Singapore, and Satay Inn, a Singaporean dining concept are located.
On the third floor, a strong nature theme pervades the “garden of re-creation”. This level features pools spanning the length of the podium, The Pavilion, The Conservatory and The Courtyard. Guests are enticed into a world of sculptured landscapes, relaxed glamour and grand seaside resort vibes.
Known for tailor-made solutions and creating beautiful, functional and luxurious interiors across several luxury hotels, Emma Maclean from EM Bespoke designed a number of feature areas throughout the hotel. From the outdoor terrace and fountain courtyard to the lift lobbies, corridors, and guest rooms, guests can enjoy facets of nature with her handpicked selection of contemporary lighting installations, bespoke furniture, art and accessories.
The outdoor terrace is the perfect escape with a sophisticated yet laidback vibe, featuring two hanging sofa swings and cushioned lounge chairs to create an idyllic spot for relaxation amongst nature. Inside the guest rooms, the curved silhouettes of the dining tables and chairs bring a softness to the space, resulting in an elegantly streamlined aesthetic. A collection of thoughtfully designed and curated artwork, accessories and books are on display, an homage to Hong Kong’s design heritage, history and nearby marine life.
Emma Maclean, EM Bespoke’s Creative Director & Founder says, “Our inspiration came from the tranquil setting of the Southside, reinterpreting elements of linear architecture, understated curves, bespoke and tailored details from days gone by, to weave them into a contemporary world. One of our favourite installations from the project features a custom light installation at the ground floor check-in reception, influenced by the guiding lights found on sampans and fishing boats back in the day, guiding guests into the safe haven of the resort.” The installation has just won two lighting design awards at this year’s MUSE Awards, taking home Gold in the Hanging Lights and Silver in Hotels & Hospitality (Interior Lights) categories respectively.
For more details, please visit https://www.fullertonhotels.com/fullerton-ocean-park-hotel-hongkong.