We review Regent Hong Kong after it’s grand redesign by Chi Wing Lo
The restoration of an icon.
This summer, Hong Kong has been set abuzz by the return of one of the city’s hospitality icons. The waterfront Regent Hong Kong was a prime destination during the 80s and 90s before the brand exited the city and the building was rebranded under the Intercontinental banner. Now, nearly 40 years after the original property opened, the Regent Hong Kong has reopened in grand style, bringing a new haven of understated luxury to this prominent harbourside location. We check-in to see what all the fuss is about.
P.S. Take a look at our local’s guide to things to do in Hong Kong while you’re there.
While this stay was complimentary, all thoughts and opinions are our own.
Regent Hong Kong review
Design with history
Visionary Hong Kong designer Chi Wing Lo was tasked with masterminding the property’s extensive transformation, and there’s no denying he rose to the challenge. In every detail, Chi breathes new life into this building while managing to respect its history—and the cherished memories of all those who visited during its previous heyday. His focus was to create a luxurious, majestic sanctuary that “embodies the spirit of The Regent and provides a sense of peace, serenity, and balance amidst the bustling metropolis.” Spoiler: he succeeded—and how!
As guests arrive at the new Regent Hong Kong, they’re greeted by the courtyard fountain that has stood here since the building’s first unveiling. It’s a new experience, though, thanks to a modern canopy of 18 gold-hued domes that sits above the port cochère, and the grand doors inspired by those of old Chinese palaces.
Guests step into a glamorous lobby where 16 vertical screens—composed of individually-made gold glass bricks—set blazing golden lights across a backdrop of black marble, framing that famous view of Victoria Harbour through the floor-to-ceiling glass wall across the lobby.
Subtle attention to detail makes staying here a pleasure, and guests discover this as soon as they check-in. The sprawling black onyx counter that sits at one side of the lobby is slung low for easy interaction with the friendly staff, and there are little shelves built in so weary travellers can rest bags for easy access as they go through the registration process. Behind, a cinematic 15-metre-long digital art piece by local artist Hung Keung captivates with an ever-evolving visual display.
Die-hard fans of the original property will appreciate the fact that the lobby’s rare Calacatta white marble staircase, a decadent ode to design, remains intact, ready to lead guests upstairs to the Regent Ballroom or provide a picture-perfect backdrop.
Perhaps the most endearing part, though, is the art. During the makeover, Chi and his team delved into the hotel’s massive archive of art and design pieces and handpicked standout pieces to take pride of place in the new Regent Hong Kong. One manifestation of this effort was the “Spirit of Regent Retrospective”, which blends some of this archival art with abstract brushwork and considered strokes into a custom screen-like art installation.
Personal havens
In keeping with Chi’s ambition to create a sense of peace and tranquillity throughout the Regent Hong Kong, each of the 497 guestrooms and suites here is designed as a “Personal Haven” where guests can retreat from the maddening crowds.
Rendered in impeccable style, these rooms are genuine oases of calm with airy open plans, restful earth tones, and soothing textures. Once again, the attention to detail is obvious in the craftsmanship of the geometric custom furniture, the vaulted ceilings—this building has surprisingly low ceilings—and the thoughtful placement of furniture.
The centrepiece of every room here are the postcard windows and framed views that capture the unique sights of Hong Kong. My Classic Harbourview Room frames a thoroughly Instagrammable view of Victoria Harbourfront and, very conveniently, there’s a sprawling daybed to lounge on and drink it all in.
Mindful of the fact that many hotel rooms have dead space between their windows and their views—and taking full advantage of the fact that the Regent Hong Kong is built above the water, not next to it—Chi created Japanese-inspired Zen mazes on the outside windowsills of each room to create compelling foregrounds for the views.
The “Oasis Bathroom” in each guest room is also beautifully designed, with flamed and brushed granite, natural oak, and double vanities made from honed Calacatta marble. Even here, the Regent Hong Kong manages to infuse little luxuries in the form of Perricone MD amenities, a Dyson hairdryer, and a rather chic, free-standing deep-soak tub. Two notes of warning, though: the open-plan concept could be interesting for those sharing a room, and the vertically-challenged might find the tub’s unexpectedly high walls a little tricky to vault over if they want to indulge in a relaxing bath.
Decadent experiences
With a slew of drinking and dining options, Regent Hong Kong isn’t playing around in its efforts to become a destination of choice for both visitors and locals.
The refreshed Lobby Lounge—featuring what is arguably the best harbour view that any Hong Kong hotel can boast—is a great choice for quick, casual meals or a lush afternoon tea. At golden hour, the lounge is bathed in pink and orange hues, offering a blissful setting for sundowners.
The current jewel in the culinary crown is Lai Ching Heen, the two-Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant which reclaims its original name (and retains the accolades garnered under the Yan Toh Heen name). Grab a window table and watch the world go by as you sample Executive Chef Lau Yiu Fai’s exquisite menu. Be sure to order the Steamed Lobster with Tofu and Crabmeat Row, and the Wok-fried Kagoshima Wagyu with Green Peppers, Lily Bulbs, and Garlic.
The Steak House is back with a sophisticated new look, offering only the world’s finest beef and an exquisite wine selection. And, of course, the Harbourside—a favourite among Hong Kong’s foodies—returns with a sleek makeover and its lavish buffet experience intact. Expect leisurely breakfasts and the infamous weekend brunch.
Wellness facilities are opening in stages, but seem promising. The brilliantly-equipped gym has all the best new Technogym equipment and views of Kowloon, while the sun-drenched pool deck is perfect for lounging in the hot summer months.
Final thoughts
The new Regent Hong Kong is a stunning homage to the original—a true temple of serenity infused with understated luxury and decadent experiences. The best part? It’s not even fully ready to go yet, with several more restaurants and a full-on spa to come by the end of the year. This is really THE Hong Kong hotel to get excited about this year.
Learn more about Regent Hong Kong
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