Leon Tang
Google
Of all Niccolo Hotels by Wharf, I’m Only Truly Impressed by The Murray in Hong Kong
To be utterly honest, I wasn’t particularly fond of Niccolo at first. I even had some preconceptions. Having stayed at Niccolo Chongqing, which, though an iconic landmark on the city’s skyline, shared almost identical public areas and room designs with its counterparts in Chengdu, Changsha, and Suzhou. It felt as if they were all cut from the same template. Staying at one was like having experienced all the others. I always felt it lacked a sense of surprise. After all, who wouldn’t prefer a refined accommodation with distinct personality, local character, and a touch of originality?
What truly made me reconsider the brand was The Murray Hong Kong. True to its name, The Murray strikes a delicate balance between vibrancy and tranquility, making it an ideal urban retreat. Situated in the heart of Central, its enclosed architectural layout and ramp design create a secluded, tranquil oasis that feels subtly detached from the hustle and bustle. Step outside, cross the street, and you’re in Hong Kong Park where you can watch flamingos strolling leisurely, lush tropical plants, and the serene bird-watching sanctuary. Wandering through it in your leisure time allows you to rediscover the city’s quieter, more poetic side, a reminder that beyond the rush, there lies a possibility for mindful dwelling.
As the birthplace and global flagship of the Niccolo brand, The Murray is not only where the brand’s philosophy began but also the only Hong Kong member of The Leading Hotels of the World, a testament to its standing in the city’s hospitality scene. Here, in its home territory, The Murray successfully sheds the “cookie-cutter” impression often associated with its mainland siblings. It’s no longer just a standardized space up in the clouds; instead, it finds its most mature and self-assured expression at the intersection of history and modernity, function and art, city and nature. From its thoughtful renovation and respect for the original architecture to the harmonious coexistence of art installations and century-old trees, The Murray is more than a hotel, it’s a continuation and reinterpretation of Central’s memory.
It turns out Wharf does put heart into hotel-making. With Niccolo’s return to Hong Kong, it has finally transcended the “skyline hotel” label to reveal its ideal self—rooted, distinctive, and warm. When it comes to Niccolo, The Murray is the only one that truly wins me over.