Explore a Hong Kong coastal residence designed to be a living gallery for the family that calls it home.
Framed by freestanding walls, an abundance of natural light, and civic proportions, Repulse Bay Residence reimagines domestic living through the lens of a modern art gallery. This Hong Kong home, designed by Copenhagen-based Norm Architects, thoughtfully balances form and function, celebrating both curated views and the family’s way of living.
“Every corner of the home invites exploration and appreciation,” Norm Architects partner Jonas Bjerre-Poulsen says. By incorporating freestanding walls, the design cleverly delineates spaces without enclosing them. This approach allows each area to stand alone as a curated piece—like artwork in a gallery—while maintaining an inviting and practical flow throughout the home.
The main bedroom, typically the most private space in a house, embraces an intentional openness. “While it remains a distinct space, the design ensures it doesn’t feel disconnected from the rest of the home,” Bjerre-Poulsen explains. The bedroom seamlessly integrates into the home’s overall layout, reflecting the cohesion and transparency seen throughout.
Two floating pendants hover over the custom stone island bench.
Blending traditional Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics, Repulse Bay Residence is defined by simple, tranquil gestures that shape its architecture. The bathroom, often one of the most texturally busy spaces in a home, embodies a serene minimalism. Minimal fixtures keep the walls free from unnecessary fittings, while Norm Architects lined the ceiling, joinery, and bathtub nook with hinoki wood, a native Japanese timber. “Hinoki lends a subtle fragrance and smooth texture, creating a calming atmosphere,” Jonas Bjerre-Poulsen explains, adding that the material “embodies the natural elegance and simplicity of both Japanese and Scandinavian cultures.”
The Vitra Akari 1A designed by Isamu Noguchi.
At the heart of the home is a gallery-like kitchen, where a monochromatic stone island takes centre stage. A largely timber palette creates warmth, while open shelving throughout the home exhibits objects of daily life. The design invites moments of quiet ritual, from a timber window nook for reading to a bench for sitting or an integrated desk for working.
Soft lighting enhances the home’s moody, curated atmosphere, with floating pendants above the kitchen island anchoring the space and wall sconces gently guiding movement through the hallway. Every element, much like in a gallery, is designed to highlight key areas and create a sense of focus and calm.
Natural materials such as stone, wood, and dolomite plaster appear throughout.
Being on Hong Kong’s southern coastline, the home’s material palette draws inspiration from its natural surroundings. Known for its pristine sandy beaches and lush green forests, the location provided a natural canvas. Norm Architects chose subtle earthy tones reminiscent of the nearby mountains, sea, and forest to seamlessly connect the home to the unspoiled nature visible through its expansive windows.
The designers aimed to bring the serenity of the outdoors in while ensuring the home remains timeless and connected to its environment. “The dense canopy of trees offers a refreshing retreat from the urban hustle, inviting residents and visitors to immerse themselves in nature,” Jonas Bjerre-Poulsen reflects.
A series of open shelves feature throughout the home.
Large windows across the home open up to expansive views of the forest beyond and the sprawling canopies of trees.
A Japanese-inspired hinoki wood bathtub takes in views of the forest.
