When Chris and Nicole McMillan moved from their native Australia, they only brought their favourite belongings, knowing that most of their antique furnishings wouldn’t make it into their new city flat. They weren’t sure what was in store for them in terms of accommodations, but they knew they wanted to stay close to nature. They chanced upon an airy flat in Mid-Levels that ticked all the right boxes, with a large open-plan living and dining space facing Hong Kong Botanical and Zoological Gardens, and the skyline and sea views beyond.
I considered it a bit of a challenge because most of the properties I’d renovated had been historic buildings dating back 100 to 150 years, with high ceilings and ornate nishes,” recalls Chris. The thing that excited me about this place is that it has a more contemporary layout and lower ceilings, and required a different application and look. It was a really nice blank canvas to work on.”
Since Chris McMillan’s background is in marketing and advertising, he was drawn to vintage French advertising prints by artist Bellenger.
The wide, open living area is adorned with pieces that possess an eclectic, retro flair. The silk and wool carpet with geometric patterns is from Tai Ping Carpets.
There are many pieces that convey the couple’s history together, most notably in the collection of artworks.
The Thai stone buddha in the entranceway and Shanghai advertising posters are among the many travel mementoes adorning the home.
The mood in the master bedroom is subtle and serene, featuring a romantic canopy bed and soft furnishings.
The bathroom is in a neutral palette with stone countertops and fittings, featuring travel mementoes such as these painted ceramic containers from Vietnam.
The streamlined kitchen has a windowsill where fresh herbs are grown; there’s also a compact breakfast bar perfect for a coffee or casual meal.
The family room looks out onto sweeping views of Hong Kong.
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