Style, to me, is not merely about appearances; it reveals the potential matrix of my reality
Travel evokes a profound sense of reminiscence, a feeling that lingers in the corners of our memory. Since the Post-Covid era, I’ve embarked on a few solo trips, primarily across Australia and Japan. It might sound like a broken record, but my life often revolves around discipline and structure. Travel , however ,whisks me away from routine, landing me in a blank slate where I exercise my creative muscles to depict the utopia I envisaged. That being said, I also surrender to serendipity and mysticism, embracing the elements of the unknown and uncertainty that sporadically unfold on the road.
In 2024, I designed my second trip of the year—a bit scattered, perhaps—but uniquely meaningful. It kicked off in Hong Kong, whirlwind through Karuizawa and Kusatsu Onsen, and culminated in Tokyo for an epic reunion with a dear friend. Along the way, as I shared moments of sheer joy with her , she described me (and I quote) as someone who “travels in style.” That simple yet striking phrase served as a stroke of genius, igniting me to write my first travel piece exploring the full spectrum of experiences
My recollection of each trip is an intricate tapestry of multi-dimensional experiences, encompassing layered sensory moments and multifaceted aesthetics. Whether through a plethora of exotic delicacies igniting my palate or a diverse array of aromatic scents permeating the air of a hotel, each journey strikes a fresh chord in me. I find myself marveling at architectural masterpieces and standing in awe of nature’s grandeur.
Style, to me, is not merely about appearances; it reveals the potential matrix of my reality—a realm where I summon the courage to expose myself to foreign lands, albeit ephemerally, while encountering human connections imbued with humility and grace. As I put myself out into the world, it reciprocates with moments of beauty and meaning.
I carve out each once-in-a-lifetime style journey that is perpetually archived and cemented in my memory lane. If I do live up to the standard of traveling in style to some degree, I feel compelled to share evocative vignettes from my adventures.
Am I reaching a point in my life to cherish and reminisce, or is nostalgia simply woven into my core? Perhaps it’s both.
Chapter 1 – A Tale of Two Hotels
Timeless Elegance and Enduring Allure: The Upper House & Kerry Hotel by André Fu
The Upper House – Speaking of André Fu’s design trajectory, The Upper House is an inextricable milestone that catapulted him to international stardom. Originally conceived as a high-end residential project, its initial vision for private and intimate living set the tone. Fu’s lofty ambition to craft a residence-akin hotel and bespoke experience was adapted by Swire Properties, the investment group behind the project.
In the wider context of luxury hotels that saturate Hong Kong, The Upper House epitomizes a zeitgeist stemming from bold vision and aspirational execution. The result of breaking the mold birthed a masterpiece that stands the test of time, recently celebrating its 15th anniversary. Located in Pacific Place, The Upper House exudes a calm and collected composure, juxtaposed with its hotel peer, the soaring glass tower of the JW Marriott Hotel adjacent to it.
An upward journey through a steep escalator adorned with a series of tori and lanterns, stepping into an immersive and enveloping arrival experience.
Upon a smooth check-in, I embarked on an upward journey through a steep escalator adorned with a series of tori and lanterns, stepping into an immersive and enveloping arrival experience. Fu’s aesthetic and sensibility spoke to me on a profound and emotional level. Synergy bonded me with The Upper House from its inception.
The journey converged in my room, and I was treated to a brief room tour—my favorite part! The space captivated me at first glance, embodying Fu’s quintessential design ethos: refined and relaxed luxury without screaming extravagance or opulence—an antithesis to ostentation and conspicuousness. It’s a testament to Fu’s redefined approach to luxury—rooted in authentic material choices, exquisite art curation, and a masterful ability to strike balance and harmony.
The room enveloped me in a cocoon of warmth, achieved through its layered design, thoughtful artwork embellishments, and meticulously considered details. It evoked the essence of a serene and poised urban sanctuary, offering a respite from the bustling city below.
What lies beneath its façade, I considered, is governed by the designer’s core value: luxury in modern times is something more genuine and rooted in the essence of the experience, rather than being purely visual or superficial.
The “wow” factor set in when the concealed pocket door was pulled open, revealing a bathroom that elevated my entire experience. Unlike other cookie-cutter designs, this bathroom delineated the vanity and bathtub areas, unified through a subtle yet deliberate transition. The artwork selection in the vanity area evoked a sense of tactility and embraced sculptural forms, enriching the space with depth, visual intrigue, and dimension. Ambient lighting further grounded the space, fostering a sense of privacy and seclusion for a sophisticated modern living experience.
Ascending small steps into the vaulted bath area, I was greeted by a breath-taking city skyline dissolving into a splendid mountain view, incrementally revealed as I moved forward. Echoing the spatial transition, I experienced an emotional transformation—from compression to release. Here, three grand and divine elements—architecture, metropolis, and nature—intertwined and coexisted harmoniously, resulting in a refreshing, engaging, and aspirational experience. The concept of an urban retreat, cherished by the interior architect, surfaced as a defining element of his inaugural work.
Principles matter in any form. The Upper House exemplifies the designer’s masterful approach to symmetry and geometry, culminating in a timeless classic with enduring allure.
It was when I meandered through the outdoor garden lawn—an unusual sight in Hong Kong’s urban context
The transcendent and subliminal experience uniquely crafted by The Upper House stayed with me perpetually. It was when I gazed into the architectural façade from the corridor, evoking a sense of inner grandeur and gravitas. Principles matter in any form. The Upper House exemplifies the designer’s masterful approach to symmetry and geometry, culminating in a timeless classic with enduring allure. It was when I meandered through the outdoor garden lawn—an unusual sight in Hong Kong’s urban context (a garden over an infinity pool, no less!)—offering a rare sense of openness and tranquility.
Lastly, I’d love to shine a spotlight on its top-notch hospitality. Attentive service, meticulous attention to detail, and a genuine sense of care and thoughtfulness were seamlessly embedded into my memorable stay.
Kerry Hotel – I also checked in Kerry Hotel designed by André Fu, who is renowned for creating boutique and intimate-scale hotel experiences. Kerry Hotel, however, stands out from Fu’s usual projects due to its large scale and waterfront location. The hotel boasts generous room sizes, chic bathrooms, and modern amenities that reinvigorate any traveler exhausted after a long flight. The room interiors merge understated elegance with relaxed luxury. As André Fu once said, "When I design, I always think about the essence of the experience I am trying to translate—that is, capturing the feeling of the moment."
In that moment, I felt restored and rejuvenated, a feeling amplified as I gazed across the Kowloon waterfront, fully embracing the sea. The next morning, I pulled open the curtains to pause for a moment while overlooking the harbor. Savoring the aroma of morning coffee, I beheld the charm of the city’s panorama and urban sprawl. The world seemed to open up before me, in all its expansive and diverse forms, forging an infinite and exhilarating future.
Gazing into the room's design elements, its classy, pared-back aesthetic is achieved through clean lines, sleek wood furnishings, and layers of materials and textures. The designer’s thoughtful approach to fostering a sense of intimacy, despite the project’s scale, remains evident on a granular level. The woven rug, with its ripple-water pattern, not only adds an artisanal touch and tactility to the room but also subtly pays tribute to the waterfront. It was a cozy and calming two-night stay.
In a recent interview, André Fu revealed his top three elements that contribute to a unique hotel experience. First and foremost, timelessness is key in hotel design, given the substantial investment involved. The second element is a sense of comfort, as people come to hotel spaces to rejuvenate. The final element is the sense of relaxed luxury, which is signature to Fu’s design language. Luxury, he explains, is no longer about formality or ornate décor; it’s about the guests' feeling of relaxation, with the sense of luxury emanating from within. I can see how he has masterfully incorporated all three elements into his design approach, from inception to the future.
Chapter 2 – Life is Architecture
Exploring I.M. Pei’s Exhibition and the Hiroshi and Senju Museum at the Intersection of Architecture, Art, and Nature
Visiting exhibitions often takes center stage during my trips. Much like André Fu's hotels, I.M. Pei’s retrospective exhibition, Life is Architecture, fueld me to visit Hong Kong for the first time, feeding me with novelty and joy.
After checking into what is arguably the most comprehensive retrospective exhibition of the legendary architect I.M. Pei at M+ Museum, I felt the urge to capture my immediate thoughts by harnessing the last ounce of my strength. As I had anticipated, I reached the limits of my cognitive, emotional, and physical capacity. Every exhibition visit is akin to survival training for me.
I am inherently drawn to exhibitions—containers that encapsulate the essence of a notable character through artistic form and chronological perspective. The sentiment derived from each exhibition often remains inexplicable yet palpable. Even on a surface level, grasping the life trajectory of a human under time constraints presents challenges, both intellectually and emotionally. I sink my teeth into understanding texts, facts, and events associated with the protagonist, attempting to discern the thread woven into their intricate yet epic journey.
I also reflect deeply and gain flourishing benefits—reframing my mindset, gaining a unique worldview, and discovering the strength to carve out a life worth living. These talents not only reshaped the world’s presence but their lofty ambitions also illuminate our future. At its core, it is the spirit that prevails over social upheaval and personal turmoil. In this prevailing, it roars as the engine of human evolution. By taking inspiration from and inheriting the core spirit of our predecessors and peers, it breeds aspirations and resilience that yield joy and hope!
Here is a snapshot of my take on the Life is Architecture exhibition:
About Cross-Cultural and Trans-Cultural Approach: Rooted in Pei’s upbringing and education, his work transcends mere expertise. Architecture mirrors life, which I unpack and interpret as a solid and universal connector that communicates our shared humanity, leading to expansive human experiences woven into diverse cultures and environments. An architect, therefore, undertakes the massive responsibility of creating architecture that endures in its form and resonates globally in its soul. I am in awe of the scope and magnitude of his work. Walking through his iconic projects—such as the Museum of Islamic Art, Le Grand Louvre, Suzhou Museum, Miho Museum, and the Bank of China in Hong Kong—I feel that his work epitomizes both the pinnacle of cross-cultural design and the capstone of grace and humility.
About Beauty: Beauty is the only imperishable investment that rises above any contingency. Form, material, and function determine the DNA of architecture. A great architect should be a great artist, making artistic decisions with full refinement and intricacy. I believe we are all given an equal opportunity to behold beauty that exists even in the most mundane day and trivial everyday objects.
About Eternity: Honor the past—history, heritage, and inner grandeur—while continuing to evolve and innovate forms and functions in response to contemporary needs and focus. I believe that this holistic perspective—blending preservation and progression—becomes the roaring engine of human evolution. That’s why Life is Architecture. And I would like to sincerely add: Life remains hopeful and joyful.
The Hiroshi and Senju Museum -The Hiroshi and Senju Museum in Karuizawa was also a highlight of this trip. Its boutique-scale design seamlessly blends with nature, conjuring up memories of my visit to the Pola Museum in Hakone. When art encounters nature, time becomes tranquil and dignified. As art merges with nature, I experienced that ideal state of 'being'—physically, emotionally, and creatively. The Hiroshi and Senju Museum represents a harmonious marriage of contemporary architecture and nature, with an avant-garde aesthetic. Natural light floods in through the glass ceiling from various angles, casting gentle shadows on the curated art collection.
My footprint shifted from the cosmopolitan hustle of Hong Kong to the off-the-grid tranquillity of Karuizawa. The energy transitioned from robust and vibrant to poised and grounding, evoking distinct yet complementary feelings that expanded the dimensions of my mind. Immersing myself at the intersection of architecture, artwork, and nature, it was a mesmerizing and sublime experience.
Show Notes
Travel evokes a profound sense of reminiscence, a feeling that lingers in the corners of our memory. Since the Post-Covid era, I’ve embarked on a few solo trips, primarily across Australia and Japan. It might sound like a broken record, but my life often revolves around discipline and structure. Travel , however ,whisks me away from routine, landing me in a blank slate where I exercise my creative muscles to depict the utopia I envisaged.
That being said, I also surrender to serendipity and mysticism, embracing the elements of the unknown and uncertainty that sporadically unfold on the road.
In 2024, I designed my second trip of the year—a bit scattered, perhaps—but uniquely meaningful. It kicked off in Hong Kong, whirlwind through Karuizawa and Kusatsu Onsen, and culminated in Tokyo for an epic reunion with a dear friend. Along the way, as I shared moments of sheer joy with her , she described me (and I quote) as someone who “travels in style.” That simple yet striking phrase served as a stroke of genius, igniting me to write my first travel piece exploring the full spectrum of experiences
My recollection of each trip is an intricate tapestry of multi-dimensional experiences, encompassing layered sensory moments and multifaceted aesthetics. Whether through a plethora of exotic delicacies igniting my palate or a diverse array of aromatic scents permeating the air of a luxury hotel, each journey strikes a fresh chord in me. I find myself marveling at architectural masterpieces and standing in awe of nature’s grandeur.
Style, to me, is not merely about appearances; it reveals the potential matrix of my reality—a realm where I summon the courage to expose myself to foreign lands, albeit ephemerally, while encountering human connections imbued with humility and grace. As I put myself out into the world, it reciprocates with moments of beauty and meaning.
I carve out each once-in-a-lifetime style journey that is perpetually archived and cemented in my memory lane. If I do live up to the standard of traveling in style to some degree, I feel compelled to share evocative vignettes from my adventures.
Am I reaching a point in my life to cherish and reminisce, or is nostalgia simply woven into my core? Perhaps it’s both.
Chapter 1 – A Tale of Two Hotels
Timeless Elegance and Enduring Allure: The Upper House & Kerry Hotel by André Fu
The Upper House – Speaking of André Fu’s design trajectory, The Upper House is an inextricable milestone that catapulted him to international stardom. Originally conceived as a high-end residential project, its initial vision for private and intimate living set the tone. Fu’s lofty ambition to craft a residence-akin hotel and bespoke experience was adapted by Swire Properties, the investment group behind the project.
In the wider context of luxury hotels that saturate Hong Kong, The Upper House epitomizes a zeitgeist stemming from bold vision and aspirational execution. The result of breaking the mold birthed a masterpiece that stands the test of time, recently celebrating its 15th anniversary. Located in Pacific Place, The Upper House exudes a calm and collected composure, juxtaposed with its hotel peer, the soaring glass tower of the JW Marriott Hotel adjacent to it.
Upon a smooth check-in, I embarked on an upward journey through a steep escalator adorned with a series of tori and lanterns, stepping into an immersive and enveloping arrival experience. Fu’s aesthetic and sensibility spoke to me on a profound and emotional level. Synergy bonded me with The Upper House from its inception.
The journey converged in my room, and I was treated to a brief room tour—my favorite part! The space captivated me at first glance, embodying Fu’s quintessential design ethos: refined and relaxed luxury without screaming extravagance or opulence—an antithesis to ostentation and conspicuousness. It’s a testament to Fu’s redefined approach to luxury—rooted in authentic material choices, exquisite art curation, and a masterful ability to strike balance and harmony.
The room enveloped me in a cocoon of warmth, achieved through its layered design, thoughtful artwork embellishments, and meticulously considered details. It evoked the essence of a serene and poised urban sanctuary, offering a respite from the bustling city below.
What lies beneath its façade, I considered, is governed by the designer’s core value: luxury in modern times is something more genuine and rooted in the essence of the experience, rather than being purely visual or superficial.
The “wow” factor set in when the concealed pocket door was pulled open, revealing a bathroom that elevated my entire experience. Unlike other cookie-cutter designs, this bathroom delineated the vanity and bathtub areas, unified through a subtle yet deliberate transition. The artwork selection in the vanity area evoked a sense of tactility and embraced sculptural forms, enriching the space with depth, visual intrigue, and dimension. Ambient lighting further grounded the space, fostering a sense of privacy and seclusion for a sophisticated modern living experience.
Ascending small steps into the vaulted bath area, I was greeted by a breathtaking city skyline dissolving into a splendid mountain view, incrementally revealed as I moved forward. Echoing the spatial transition, I experienced an emotional transformation—from compression to release. Here, three grand and divine elements—architecture, metropolis, and nature—intertwined and coexisted harmoniously, resulting in a refreshing, engaging, and aspirational experience. The concept of an urban retreat, cherished by the interior architect, surfaced as a defining element of his inaugural work.
The transcendent and subliminal experience uniquely crafted by The Upper House stayed with me perpetually. It was when I gazed into the architectural façade from the corridor, evoking a sense of inner grandeur and gravitas. Principles matter in any form. The Upper House exemplifies the designer’s masterful approach to symmetry and geometry, culminating in a timeless classic with enduring allure. It was when I meandered through the outdoor garden lawn—an unusual sight in Hong Kong’s urban context (a garden over an infinity pool, no less!)—offering a rare sense of openness and tranquility.
Lastly, I’d love to shine a spotlight on its top-notch hospitality. Attentive service, meticulous attention to detail, and a genuine sense of care and thoughtfulness were seamlessly embedded into my memorable stay.
Kerry Hotel – I also checked in Kerry Hotel designed by André Fu, who is renowned for creating boutique and intimate-scale hotel experiences. Kerry Hotel, however, stands out from Fu’s usual projects due to its large scale and waterfront location. The hotel boasts generous room sizes, chic bathrooms, and modern amenities that reinvigorate any traveler exhausted after a long flight. The room interiors merge understated elegance with relaxed luxury. As André Fu once said, "When I design, I always think about the essence of the experience I am trying to translate—that is, capturing the feeling of the moment."
In that moment, I felt restored and rejuvenated, a feeling amplified as I gazed across the Kowloon waterfront, fully embracing the sea. The next morning, I pulled open the curtains to pause for a moment while overlooking the harbor. Savoring the aroma of morning coffee, I beheld the charm of the city’s panorama and urban sprawl. The world seemed to open up before me, in all its expansive and diverse forms, forging an infinite and exhilarating future.
Gazing into the room's design elements, its classy, pared-back aesthetic is achieved through clean lines, sleek wood furnishings, and layers of materials and textures. The designer’s thoughtful approach to fostering a sense of intimacy, despite the project’s scale, remains evident on a granular level. The woven rug, with its ripple-water pattern, not only adds an artisanal touch and tactility to the room but also subtly pays tribute to the waterfront. It was a cozy and calming two-night stay.
In a recent interview, André Fu revealed his top three elements that contribute to a unique hotel experience. First and foremost, timelessness is key in hotel design, given the substantial investment involved. The second element is a sense of comfort, as people come to hotel spaces to rejuvenate. The final element is the sense of relaxed luxury, which is signature to Fu’s design language. Luxury, he explains, is no longer about formality or ornate décor; it’s about the guests' feeling of relaxation, with the sense of luxury emanating from within. I can see how he has masterfully incorporated all three elements into his design approach, from inception to the future.
Chapter 2 – Life is Architecture
Exploring I.M. Pei’s Exhibition and the Hiroshi and Senju Museum at the Intersection of Architecture, Art, and Nature
Visiting exhibitions often takes center stage during my trips. Much like André Fu's hotels, I.M. Pei’s retrospective exhibition, Life is Architecture, fueld me to visit Hong Kong for the first time, feeding me with novelty and joy.
After checking into what is arguably the most comprehensive retrospective exhibition of the legendary architect I.M. Pei at M+ Museum, I felt the urge to capture my immediate thoughts by harnessing the last ounce of my strength. As I had anticipated, I reached the limits of my cognitive, emotional, and physical capacity. Every exhibition visit is akin to survival training for me.
I am inherently drawn to exhibitions—containers that encapsulate the essence of a notable character through artistic form and chronological perspective. The sentiment derived from each exhibition often remains inexplicable yet palpable. Even on a surface level, grasping the life trajectory of a human under time constraints presents challenges, both intellectually and emotionally. I sink my teeth into understanding texts, facts, and events associated with the protagonist, attempting to discern the thread woven into their intricate yet epic journey.
I also reflect deeply and gain flourishing benefits—reframing my mindset, gaining a unique worldview, and discovering the strength to carve out a life worth living. These talents not only reshaped the world’s presence but their lofty ambitions also illuminate our future. At its core, it is the spirit that prevails over social upheaval and personal turmoil. In this prevailing, it roars as the engine of human evolution. By taking inspiration from and inheriting the core spirit of our predecessors and peers, it breeds aspirations and resilience that yield joy and hope!
Here is a snapshot of my take on the Life is Architecture exhibition:
About Cross-Cultural and Trans-Cultural Approach: Rooted in Pei’s upbringing and education, his work transcends mere expertise. Architecture mirrors life, which I unpack and interpret as a solid and universal connector that communicates our shared humanity, leading to expansive human experiences woven into diverse cultures and environments. An architect, therefore, undertakes the massive responsibility of creating architecture that endures in its form and resonates globally in its soul. I am in awe of the scope and magnitude of his work. Walking through his iconic projects—such as the Museum of Islamic Art, Le Grand Louvre, Suzhou Museum, Miho Museum, and the Bank of China in Hong Kong—I feel that his work epitomizes both the pinnacle of cross-cultural design and the capstone of grace and humility.
About Beauty:Beauty is the only imperishable investment that rises above any contingency. Form, material, and function determine the DNA of architecture. A great architect should be a great artist, making artistic decisions with full refinement and intricacy. I believe we are all given an equal opportunity to behold beauty that exists even in the most mundane day and trivial everyday objects.
About Eternity:Honor the past—history, heritage, and inner grandeur—while continuing to evolve and innovate forms and functions in response to contemporary needs and focus. I believe that this holistic perspective—blending preservation and progression—becomes the roaring engine of human evolution. That’s why Life is Architecture. And I would like to sincerely add: Life remains hopeful and joyful.
The Hiroshi and Senju Museum -The Hiroshi and Senju Museum in Karuizawa was also a highlight of this trip. Its boutique-scale design seamlessly blends with nature, conjuring up memories of my visit to the Pola Museum in Hakone. When art encounters nature, time becomes tranquil and dignified. As art merges with nature, I experienced that ideal state of 'being'—physically, emotionally, and creatively. The Hiroshi and Senju Museum represents a harmonious marriage of contemporary architecture and nature, with an avant-garde aesthetic. Natural light floods in through the glass ceiling from various angles, casting gentle shadows on the curated art collection.
My footprint shifted from the cosmopolitan hustle of Hong Kong to the off-the-grid tranquillity of Karuizawa. The energy transitioned from robust and vibrant to poised and grounding, evoking distinct yet complementary feelings that expanded the dimensions of my mind. Immersing myself at the intersection of architecture, artwork, and nature, it was a mesmerizing and sublime experience.
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