Celebrity Life

Triazza, the latest luxury residential property development at Kowloon Mid-Levels, offers space, privacy and convenience, as well as state-of-the-art interiors and amenities.

Until you see the opulence of Triazza, one could be forgiven for thinking that many Hong Kong residential projects have a dreary sameness about them.

Instead, Triazza presents a unique new low-rise luxury residential living in the urban area by setting new benchmarks for unparalleled privacy for discerning clients, offering diverse choices of special units with spacious configurations, and featuring premium building materials as well as designer fittings and appliances throughout.

Set among the elevated greenery of Kowloon Mid-Levels, Triazza is a world apart, taking full advantage of sweeping views across the city towards Hong Kong Island from large, airy and fabulously appointed family-sized units that are distinctly different in layout and design. Unusually for such a low- density residential project, the residents’ clubhouse includes a 19-metre-long pool with jacuzzi, a stylish function room with private kitchen, a multi-purpose activity area, a wine room, along with a gym and sauna.

Triazza attends to every detail to strengthen the brand, thereby carving a unique niche in the luxury residential market. This allows the project to meet the demands of discerning clients and prominent families who are seeking a quality way of life in an ideal residence.

The developer has spared no effort in offering a wide range of design choices, including apartments for large families that greatly resemble typical homes in the West, or penthouses with spacious rooftops and large stairhoods that make the most of the splendid location.

The nearly three dozen units at Triazza are arranged in a V-shape that not only allows each one to enjoy views across Kowloon towards Hong Kong, but also offers a high degree of privacy – for example, by allowing direct access to the car parking space from the house. This is a rare offering in the local market that redefines the standards of luxury living – in this case some residents can step out from their living room and into their car. This feature is especially accommodating to celebrity residents or others seeking a discreet lifestyle.

Unit 12 and Unit 25 in Block 2 are decorative units with saleable areas of 1,879 and 1,867 square feet respectively. The living and dining room is 16 feet wide and 29 feet long and is connected to a large balcony that brings the outdoor environment into the living space. The roomy layout emphasises the spaciousness of the large en suite master bedroom, which aligns perfectly with the corner-window design, giving the indoor space a special ambience.

The exotic poolside villa-style special Units 1 and 2 in Block 2 boast saleable areas of 1,463 and 1,824 square feet respectively. These units are fronted by a large resort-style garden pool, providing a setting that is reminiscent of an exotic Southeast Asian resort – yet another unique offering. Combined with car parking spaces located on the same floor, the units offer unrivalled privacy and a sense of distinctiveness.

Triazza also features premium building materials and designer fittings and appliances throughout. Each decorative and “typical handover” unit features sleek Arclinea kitchen cabinets from Italy and Sub-Zero refrigerators from the United States, along with Gaggenau appliances and Miele washing machines from Germany. Custom-designed double-glazed windows provide superior sound insulation, while fresh air ducts are installed in living rooms, dining rooms and master bedrooms.

Located at 383 Tai Po Road, near the junction of Caldecott Road at Kowloon Mid-Levels, Triazza comprises 35 units in three blocks, ranging in size from 1,352 to 2,496 square feet, with the largest offering three or four bedrooms. This low-density, low-rise development offers seclusion with convenient access to a comprehensive transport network, backing on to Piper’s Hill, Eagle’s Nest and Kam Shan. The renowned Po Leung Kuk Choi Kai Yau School is located nearby, while the Festival Walk shopping centre in Kowloon Tong is about a five-minute drive away.

triazza.com

The post A Dreamy Sanctuary: Triazza is the Epitome of Luxury Living appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

On the hunt for Hong Kong's most exclusive properties and developments, we head to Happy Valley and discover an address of unusual grace and space at 23-39 Blue Pool Road.

When it comes to luxury homes and properties in Hong Kong, there are many areas in the city that spring to mind. Mid-levels, The Peak, Tai Tam and Repulse Bay are prime examples, but there are very few that match up to what I’ve seen at this particular stretch of Happy Valley.

Besides the prestigious address and the well-known racecourse, Happy Valley is a neighbourhood that offers much more than it seems. Some of the city’s most historic buildings and distinguished private schools, boutiques and restaurants make this urban area what it is today — a far cry from the marshland it once was in the 1800s.

Indeed, Happy Valley today is one of the most sought-after residential locations in Hong Kong — and it’s also home to 23-39 Blue Pool Road.

Here, instead of the high-density or high-rise living that we’re used to, stand 18 semi-detached homes. The environment is quiet and tranquil — a quality we all yearn for in our bustling city — and its location is perfectly tucked between the mountainous interior of Jardine’s Lookout and the lively districts of Wan Chai and Causeway Bay.

This long-standing collaboration project began as far back as 1992 between top developer Hang Lung Properties and the preeminent American firm of architects Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF).

The practice, which is best known for recently transforming New York’s Museum of Modern Art and designing the largest private real-estate development in US history — Hudson Yards in Manhattan — was brought in to design 23-39 Blue Pool Road. The two have also partnered on landmark projects across Hong Kong and mainland China; these include Tianjin’s Riverside 66 mall and the large-scale commercial complexes Spring City 66 in Kunming and, currently under development, Westlake 66 in Hangzhou.

[caption id="attachment_208448" align="alignnone" width="1276"] The first-floor[/caption]

James von Klemperer FAIA, RIBA, president and design principal with KPF Associates, explains that “whereas neighbourhoods in London, New York and Chicago were historically built with great three-, four- and five-storey homes, a series of houses forming its own street is a very unusual situation in Hong Kong because of the city’s topography and density”. The result seems to transport one to a different country almost, where space and openness are abundant.

Von Klemperer adds, “Semi-detached dwellings like this enable a lifestyle that’s very different from what’s normally possible in a typical Hong Kong apartment, or even a duplex.”

Upon entering the properties, more surprising elements await as all 18 houses at 23-39 Blue Pool Road feature their own private balconies, foyers, roof terraces, courtyards and garages — prized real-estate areas of outdoor space for enhanced living.

Privacy and sustainability were key considerations in the design. The facades of the properties were inspired by Chinese folding screens, which create a sense of separation between exterior and interior, but also ensure discreet views, both in and out, with a high degree of insulation, too. What’s more, a system of mechanical blinds helps to absorb sunlight and combat heat gain, the biggest culprit when it comes to energy consumption in Hong Kong buildings.

As we walk along the stretch, two spacious properties are showcased to illustrate the kind of luxury living and higher quality of life that can be enjoyed here.
The first, ouse A or The arisian Mansion, was designed by international hospitality-design firm Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA), with young couples and individuals in mind. According to HBA, the design focuses on “a timeless interior with a French/European flair that embraces a luxurious residential quality, while the inspiration for it stemmed from an idea to “create a sophisticated lived-in space that has its own character and personality”.

From the moment you step into 35A, that character is apparent across the board. The elegant European-style space feels clean and modern, but at the same time unique, with Asian aesthetics and elements blended in.

Spacial considerations were central in the planning of the property, too, and can be seen in the way all spaces and floors have been used and maximised with minimum compromise. One such example is the expansive second-floor master bedroom, which is connected to the large master bathroom, before leading on to the generously wide walk-in wardrobe; a smart and very practical use of the space.

On the partnership with Hang Lung Properties, HBA notes that close dialogue was crucial “throughout all design phases and the success of this project”.
Bespoke finishes and layers lend touches of character with pops of colour, texture or light to the rooms. When designing the home, HBA also curated an eclectic art collection to inject a sense of refined luxury that feels as contemporary as it does opulent.

Inside, the chic colour palette takes inspiration from French blue and grey tones, highlighted with reflective accents of silver and champagne Meanwhile, Italian marble floors, exotic wood veneers, hand-blown glass chandeliers and hand-tufted carpets add distinctive details of lush textures.

As an extension of the interior, the property’s rooftop makes use of the space most connected with nature — making open-air dining and entertaining an effortless occasion, too — while a whirlpool soaking tub adds to the unparalleled living experience offered at Blue Pool Road.

We continue our tour a few doors down at 39B. Named The Crystal, the design for this house was inspired by the crystalline exterior of the development and was executed by global architectural and design studio, PDP London.

Alexandra Byrne, director of PDP London further elaborates that the interior was designed to reflect the buildings exterior within the house “This is how we came to the idea of The Crystal; a luxurious expression of that same theme,” she explains. “I was also inspired by the fabulous, urban location and didn’t want to disengage with that on the inside.”

As this was Ds first project with ang Lung Properties, Byrne talks about the passionate teams on both sides and how “Hang Lung was instrumental in managing the process smoothly and added many great ideas to the project. It was a real collaboration.”

As I walk into the home, a calming story of green threads its way through the house, designed to bring a sense of the outside in. “It’s actually not a colour I’ve used much before, so we had to search for the perfect green stone and found an amazing Verde Antigua from the Middle East,” says Bryne. “I decided to do the entire Master Bathroom in this stone, even the cabinet doors.”

Moreover, green can be found naturally from the first-floor picture window that frames the outdoor landscape, while the courtyard and rooftop provide more space for lush green environments.

Honing in on the luxury of space and privacy, PDP’s design focus sees the master suite taking up the top floor, relocating the master bedroom to the back of the property, which overlooks the development’s green wall and waterfall.

“This gave us the space for a sensational master closet, one of the biggest we’ve completed in Hong Kong, completely custom-made in walnut,” Byrne said.
The suite is also attached to a master bathroom with fluted glass screens for privacy and a large lounge with study — using the whole floor as a private escape if need be.

Over and above the individual design of the properties, it’s obvious that what Blue Pool Road offers is overall appeal — blending Western style with Asian sensibilities seamlessly in a environment that affords space, privacy, nature and the utmost in luxury like no other property in Hong Kong.

The post 23-39 Blue Pool Road is Luxury Living Redefined appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Founder of LC Capital, Jonathan Cheng is a new breed of private equity and property developer. The entrepreneur dissects the market.

Now more than ever, alternative assets and private equity are under challenge to play an important role and deliver returns as global markets and economies struggle to recover after the pandemic. The firms that successfully emerge from the global wreckage will require uniquely focussed strategies and talented managers.
LC Capital was founded in 2015. Jonathan Cheng is its current Group CEO and Managing Director. LC Capital is a boutique, specialised investment operation favouring organic growth of assets under management and focusing on the Asia-Pacific region. It combines international management expertise of private equity with local knowledge and characteristics covering property development, and its associated business lines.
In property development it prefers to buy raw land and build new projects. Instead of refurbishing properties, LC Capital aims to add value to its investments besides just providing capital. Taking majority control over corporate governance allows LC Capital to strategically manoeuvre business direction of its projects and investment vehicles. And majority control allows it to influence corporate governance and strategic business direction.
“We aim to be active not passive and seek to cultivate and drive holistic business cultures,” says Cheng. “We step into design and create synergistic business strategies to establish a vision, brand and ultimately an exit.” Property is developed through its associated company Infinity Capital Group. Since 2015, LC Capital has completed and is currently developing $175 million in property in the Asia-Pacific region, including Singapore, Australia and Japan.

[caption id="attachment_206384" align="alignnone" width="1300"] The TELLUS on Parker Hotel development in Perth, Australia[/caption]

LC Capital positions and focusses itself as a disciplined private-equity manager – a smarter version of a typical property developer that seeks to create and sustain value in its investments. It combines food-and- beverage expertise, ownership and management in its property investments and developments. “Extracting a premium from the potential synergy between the collaboration between landlord and tenant represents a major opportunity and challenge if we assume both roles,” says Cheng. “For LC Capital, this relationship doesn’t necessarily have to be adversarial.”
“The traditional tenant-landlord relationship will always be contentious – there’s little sympathy on either side. Tenants rarely meet landlords and there’s no personal interaction as in the past, when the landlord would personally collect rent and visit the tenant. However, since LC Capital controls its properties and acts as the tenant, so the relationship is more collaborative with any partners we work with on the F&B concept.”
It began its property-development activities with luxury hotels and high-end residences in Niseko, Japan and Australia. LC Capital retains ownership and management in hotels and their food and beverage outlets. “Entering the food and beverage business was a natural extension of their ambition to create and sustain value in our properties,” Cheng explains.

[caption id="attachment_206385" align="alignnone" width="1426"] The TELLUS villas development in Niseko, Japan[/caption]

The vision beyond property construction is to build a unified brand across properties. Each unit in Niseko features its own onsen and a commitment to creating a sense of quality of cosiness, warmth and belonging in each unit.

[caption id="attachment_206387" align="alignnone" width="1500"] Private onsen at TELLUS Niseko, which opened late last year[/caption]

Cheng describes his hands-on style approach in making and managing investments and projects. He disavows management by spreadsheet, as he favours meeting employees and spends significant time on sites.

“Understanding your businesses at the ground level is vital for success.”

Cheng assumes a cautious and nuanced view of how business and industry will emerge from the Covid-19 pandemic. “The post- pandemic environment will provoke a change in outlook, not necessarily a wholesale change in fundamental business and investment strategies.”
“Tourist numbers are presently at a standstill and revenues will be affected going forward. It will change the way our properties adapt to changing business conditions. The massive number of aircraft groundings are an indication of the severity of the situation. When the financial markets normalise, the economy and business will recalibrate.”
Cheng emphasises and leads an organisational learning process that enhances the brands of LC Capital, its businesses and the properties by creating a total, all-encompassing experience. For example, its TELLUS Lounge in Hong Kong is an expression of quality and sophistication. Cheng also explains his conservative rollout plans for TELLUS: “We were prepared to accept capital expenditures for the initial start-up period of 18 months in order to establish the business and brand.”

[caption id="attachment_206394" align="alignnone" width="1300"] LC Capital's founder, CEO and Managing Director, Jonathan Cheng | Jacket Loro Piana[/caption]

Cheng describes himself as an entrepreneur. And he defines that through the importance of getting out of one’s comfort zone and always sensing and feeling. “Business schools can teach a lot, but they only provide a framework for your experience. And with experience comes acumen. I strive to achieve a natural balance between theory and practice.”
LC Capital’s seeks to grow its property development arm in Asia Pacific: it’s currently looking at acquiring land in Bali, among other opportunities overseas. Moving forward, there has to be scalability.
“An effective investor and operator understands a market, how a company’s operations succeed in that market, and develops a sense of what’s going on around them. Most of all, it’s all about the rhythm. If you make mistakes because of poor timing you can always get your rhythm back.”

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