San Tung Fong Commercial North Wing (Previously Lok-Kok Teahouse)

Historic Teahouse Reimagined as Boutique Hotel.

Adaptive reuse of a 1913 teahouse near Macao's UNESCO zone, blending careful conservation with contemporary hospitality; evocative common areas and storytelling details reconnect the building to harbour heritage.

New Orient Group reactivated a 1913 landmark, transforming the former Lok-Kok Teahouse into a 62-room boutique hotel within a government-classified heritage shell. The brief balanced rigorous conservation with contemporary guest needs, engaging the site’s Lingnan-Portuguese character and its Inner Harbour trade history. The objective was to retain cultural significance while crafting a relevant, immersive hospitality experience.

The project prioritises material and narrative authenticity: structural stitching with steel rods stabilises original brickwork; lime plaster mixed with straw reinstates historic breathability and texture; arched openings and tile references align with neighbouring Portuguese civic architecture. Interiors weave archival projections, period-inspired joinery, preserved wall advertisements and contextual plaques. Judges praised the evocative public areas, citing rich colours, patterns and an assured respect for history; one noted a "beautiful blend of historic character and modern interpretation of colors and textures."

The project reframes a long-derelict building as a layered, atmospheric destination that invites exploration and reconnects to harbour life. The overall judges' responses highlighted a cohesive sense of place and meaningful cultural continuity.

The judges said: “A beautiful blend of historic character and modern interpretation of colors and textures.”