LOCATED…
on two tiers of a formerly desolate car park beneath an office building, this 6,120-square-foot space In Hong Kong may be the world’s most luxurious man cave. Known as The Library, the atmospheric timber-lined space was designed as a sumptuous retreat for hosting small private gatherings, as well as a showcase for a priceless collection of exquisite automobiles.
THE ONETIME…
garage made consummate sense for the purpose, as it came equipped with two elevators intended for the entrance and exit of automobiles.
BUT…
reimagining the space was not without its challenges. A Work of Substance, the Hong Kong- and Paris-based multi-disciplinary design agency that masterminded the project, had to address space that was awkwardly narrow in parts, with low ceilings. They crafted an elegant solution based on a skeleton rib system, whose timber framework functions as structural bracing. Cars are displayed against adjustable, reflective polished stainless steel panels, creating a hall of infinite reflections and seemingly limitless space.
EXQUISITELY…
crafted wood cabinetry for storage and display of automobile-related memorabilia was inspired by automotive design itself, with handles resembling those on a car produced by Zagato, an independent, century-old automobile manufacturer northwest of Milan.
CUSTOM…
seating and lounge chairs of teak, leather, canvas and metal pay homage to the Ferrari Dino, groundbreaking Italian sports cars of the 1960s and ‘70s.
ALL TOLD…
a wide variety of materials and finishes, influenced by the mechanics and materiality of automotive design, found their way into the space, including reclaimed timber, textured glass, stainless steel, tanned leather, blue lacquer, concrete, mesh and brass.
LIGHTING…
elements of steel, wood, nickel-plated brass and opal glass, including portable lanterns that can be moved about or wall-mounted, were designed for versatility and flexibility. Even more important, the moody lighting define the space’s extraordinary, intimate ambience.
NOSTALGIC…
and soul-stirring, The Library is a unique venue for preserving the beauty of the past even as it invites visitors to celebrate the present moment.
Design: A Work of Substance
Photography: Dennis Lo
