Originally designed by British modernist architect Ron Phillips in 1969, the building was a pioneering example of sustainable and energy efficient design. Today, the renovated Murray is part of Hong Kong’s Conserving Central Project. Speaking of the building’s metamorphosis, Luke Fox, senior executive partner and head of studio, Foster + Partners, said: “With the Murray Building—an outstanding example of 1970s Hong Kong architecture—we have been able to reconnect an important civic landmark with the city. This project draws on key areas of our expertise in urbanism, architecture and interiors, and our design will breathe new life into this classic Hong Kong building by creating a unique hotel and leisure destination for international visitors and locals to enjoy.”

This will be a flagship for Niccolo Hotels, the new luxury hotel brand which was designed “to cater to the growing maturity and sophistication of the luxury hotel sector in China”—to quote the official press release. The brand first launched in 2015 in Chengdu, a geographic location chosen because of the city’s booming economy (the most successful in mainland China). Niccolo Chengdu is part of the city’s International Finance Square (IFS), a mixed-use retail and commercial center.

The Murray, A Niccolo Hotel will have 336 oversized guest rooms on 25 floors. British-born Duncan Palmer is the Managing Director. He’s a seasoned veteran in the hospitality industry, with more than 35 years of experience with international luxury hotel groups like Mandarin Oriental, The Savoy and Langham Hotels.