Ong Chin Huat checks into the J Plus Boutique Hotel and discovers a trendy oasis in the heart of Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
The J Plus Boutique located in the heart of Causeway Bay, Hong Kong has undergone a “urban renaissance” following a HK$10 million makeover and revamp. Originally designed by Philippe Starck, and currently celebrating its 10th anniversary as every fashionista’s must-stay hotel, J Plus Hotel by YOO introduces a fresh “street art” twist to the existing building and a buzzing relocated street level main entrance and lobby now prominently located on Pennington Street.
“In celebration of our first multi-award winning decade, this iconic address is now redefined and refreshed for the future,” said J Plus Hotel by YOO General Manager, Vivian Chau.
“We are proud to partner with YOO Hotels in this exciting project to revitalise our iconic Philippe Starck hotel, whilst also still remaining respectful of its history. We share the same vision of creating a unique hotel experience through design that incorporates refreshing, dynamic and eclectic characteristics, complemented by seamless service and luxury. J Plus Hotel by YOO is all about engaging and caring. We are more than just a boutique hotel. It is a declaration of love for fine design, fine living and unforgettable experiences.”
Utilising the new creative tools of today’s hip, cool, 21st designers, the spray can and street art, YOO has retrospectively added architectural detailing to a structure previously devoid of external features, resulting in architectural heritage where none previously existed. Hotel guests and passers-by are enticed inside by the gentle beckoning facial expression of a woman featured on the giant entrance panel artwork created by Graffiti4hire, a playful Renaissance-style portrait that also appropriately heralds the hotel’s rebirth.
Stepping inside, framed yellow, orange and red tinted glass panels inscribed with Chinese motifs of coins, dragons and bamboo are introduced as symbols of good fortune and greet guests, whether inside looking out or outside looking in.
Low key industrialised multi-spotlight lighting playfully highlights notable design features throughout the lobby area, together with ten cocoon-shaped cut crystal pendants that bathe the back end of the lobby in a subdued and welcoming hue.
Avant garde design elements unmistakably reflect YOO’s unconventional DNA, from imported European furniture, such as the playful sculptured gold hand seat, unique wheelbarrow chair and graffiti rug in the Lobby to the playfully coloured fabrics featured throughout. Designed and manufactured by Timorous Beasties, the reception area sofa produced in the traditional French style typical of Starck projects is upholstered in multi-coloured, surreal fabric giving it a contemporary makeover. Likewise, the Babette chair manufactured by Fratelli Boffi is another classic piece of furniture that instills a familiar “Starck” touch, its shape traditional, yet playful, in the context of a modern urban hotel lobby. Similarly, the three portraits manufactured by Minehart and altered by Chad Wys that further convey the quirkiness and playfulness of the lobby’s décor.
The extensive makeover has also seen refreshingly bright designs applied to each of the hotel’s 32 luxurious studios and 24 stylish spacious suites, which are styled in four dynamic colour themes: Dreamy Pink, Tangerine Joy, Sunshine Yellow and Tranquil Blue. Unique ceiling graffiti stickers echo the inspired artistry of graffiti displayed on the hotel’s external walls and adds a further dimension to these welcoming personal sanctuaries, while plush bespoke handcrafted carpets add the final touch of luxury to each studio and suite.