Cover The home, the work of Hero Design Group, has an Italian farmhouse-inspired aesthetic
The home, the work of Hero Design Group, has an Italian farmhouse-inspired aesthetic
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This apartment in the heart of the city was transformed into a warm, welcoming space with the look and feel of a country retreat, thanks to Ann Chan of Hong Kong-based Hero Design Group
Nestled in one of Hong Kong Island’s most prestigious neighbourhoods, this home boasts an unexpected style in the city’s dense urban landscape.
The design of the 2,345 sq ft apartment, which has three bedrooms and two-and-a-half bathrooms, is a contemporary interpretation of an Italian farmhouse, having undergone a full renovation led by Ann Chan, CEO of Hong Kong-based Hero Design Group, who worked closely with the homeowners to create a space that is both functional and filled with soul.
“The clients’ brief included a key focus on maximising space and layout while ensuring the home remains beautiful,” Chan says. “In a city like Hong Kong, where homes tend to be relatively small, this is a common requirement, and it's an area where our team excels.” Meanwhile, the surroundings of the home—a wraparound terrace and greenery aplenty—provided Chan with abundant inspiration in bringing the Italian farmhouse style request to life.
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The homeowners—a couple who love to entertain—had a clear vision: a home that could cater to gatherings with family and friends, while reflecting their passion for music, cooking, and a warm, rustic aesthetic. It’s a perfect fit with the Italian farmhouse look and feel, which Chan describes as a style that invites individuals to relax and connect with their surroundings”. She adds, “From the outset, our goal was to create a home that embodies casual elegance and embraces the open nature of the environment.”
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Upon entering the apartment, the rare wraparound terrace immediately stands out; it not only enhances the sense of space but also brings the outdoors in—an unusual luxury in Hong Kong. “Having this kind of outdoor space in such an urban environment is unique, and we wanted to make the most of it.”
Inside, Chan and her team undertook a major layout change. A long corridor leading to the private spaces is extended, creating concealed storage—a priority for the client, says Chan.
One section towards the end of the corridor was transformed into an open playroom for the children, providing them with a dedicated space to play away from the communal areas of the home and spend time as a family.
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Modern farmhouses blend vintage and contemporary elements, a design language that can be observed throughout the entirety of the home, says Chan. Wood is a central theme throughout the apartment, from the bespoke cabinetry to the polished hardwood floors. This is paired with a striking selection of marble. “In this residence, a dialogue unfolds between wood and marble—two contrasting yet beautifully natural materials,” she says.
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The kitchen features pristine Calacatta marble countertops on an island and a La Cornue 110 range with polished brass accents. In the powder room, bold onyx red marble and Algerian Tale wallpaper by Mind The Gap create a sense of surprise and whimsy. “We envisioned the powder room as a stunning jewel box, where creativity knows no bounds,” says Chan.
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The project took eight months from conception to completion, with two months dedicated to the design and planning phase. “The clients for this project were incredibly tasteful and a pleasure to work with,” says Chan. “From the outset, they placed great trust in our team and were open to our design suggestions.”
But the most personal and emotional part of it was “the moment when a space truly comes to life”, Chan adds. “It’s often the details that resonate the most. Each choice contributes to an environment that is deeply personal and reflective of how our clients live. It is a true home.
“Witnessing how a thoughtfully designed space can enhance daily life, evoke cherished memories, and inspire creativity is really what fuels our passion as a firm. It’s what makes every project memorable and fulfilling.”
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Andrea Lo was the Executive Editor of Tatler Hong Kong and Editor of Tatler Macau.
Born in Canada and raised in Hong Kong and England, she started her career in journalism in 2012.
Follow her on Instagram @andreastephenielo.
