Ovolo Southside

You don’t need us to tell you that Hong Kong and New York are very different cities. But it’s remarkable that, as late as 2014, Ovolo Southside can be Hong Kong’s very first warehouse-conversion boutique hotel. Of course, the mania for warehouse loft conversions was never really given a chance to develop here — but then again, from a look at the Ovolo’s elevation, it’s clear that a Hong Kong warehouse can be a high-rise affair, seemingly uniquely suited to residential repurposing.

In any case, the Ovolo Southside is a clear homage to what’s internationally perceived as the New York style: high, unfinished ceilings, wood floors, and floor-to-ceiling windows, which benefit greatly from the building’s height. There’s also not a square inch of the place that’s not occupied by an artwork or a design gesture, from graffiti-inspired graphics to vintage-inspired lighting and mid-century–inspired furniture.

It’s an invigorating look. But it’s not the only thing that’s refreshing about the Ovolo Southside. The location, around the back side of Hong Kong island — hence the name — is a welcome change from the glut of skyscrapers and tourism on the north coast. Think rolling green hills and fresh sea breezes with easy access via the South Island Line metro. If that’s not enough to entice you over to the Southside, we don’t know what is.