Iconic Central building turned luxury hotel

A new luxury hotel is coming to Central, offering guests the chance to stay in an iconic building and enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the rooftop bar.

The Murray, the latest venture by luxury hotel brand Niccolo Hotels, is set to open in October 2017 on Cotton Tree Drive, a stone’s throw from Hong Kong Park. It will be the hotel brand’s flagship property in Hong Kong, while also furthering the government’s Conserving Central Project.

The building itself is iconic for its distinctive arches and recessed windows, and has received many accolades for its energy-efficient design since it was constructed in 1969. Architects Foster and Partners, whose portfolio includes The Hong Kong and Shanghai Bank headquarters and the Hong Kong International Airport, will design the hotel in a chic, contemporary style.

The property will feature 336 rooms on 27 floors, wellness facilities, five restaurants, a rooftop bar and terraces around The Arches with views of Hong Kong Park and Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens.

The Murray’s managing director, Duncan Palmer, said the hotel is set to become “the preferred hotel in Hong Kong for visiting dignitaries, captains of industry and leaders in style” upon opening.

Niccolo Hotels’ first property, Niccolo Chengdu, opened in April 2015. The brand was recently named the “Best Luxury Hotel Brand of the Year” at the 2016 Asia Hotel Awards.