47Ronin in Hong Kong: The Fleming Hotel, a timeless classic style inspired by Hong Kong’s iconic cross-harbour ferries
47Ronin is having a little trip to Hong Kong!
Located at the heart of the vibrant Wan Chai area in Hong Kong, The Fleming Hotel stands prominently in contrast to its older neighbours. It is here where Lifestyle Journal has very kindly extended an invitation to 47Ronin for a staycation and interview session.
The Fleming Hotel, located amidst the hustle and bustle of Wan Chai
Upon arrival, one will perhaps be immediately drawn to the unique architectural layout and style of The Fleming – classy and edgy, fused with a hint of timeless industrial character which lends the space its iconic aesthetic.
Stylish interior at the reception area (Arch Daily, 2017)
Elevators (The Fleming, 2018)
Matching the gold accents with 47Ronin watch straps
Originally opened in 2006, the establishment was given a new look two years ago by the architecture company, A Work of Substance. The original 70s building was given new life as it was rebranded, redesigned and refurbished to become the trendy boutique hotel it is today.
Spacious interior – atypical of the usual Hong Kong hotel room
When travelling, especially for business, a conducive environment for rest & work is what I always hope to get.
The smallest details matter – gold accents everywhere, inspired by Hong Kong’s iconic cross-habour ferries
The touch of leather: makes a difference for a simple door handle.
What a retro design lamp, bringing me through a time slip.
Playing around with natural material and textures is also a thing for 47Ronin.
Found this perfect spot for this golden handcrafted watch on a golden tap & sink.
Very interestingly designed golden cutlery set. Yes, there are chopsticks, we are in Hong Kong.
With a wide variety of drinks in the mini bar, you can skip the Seven-Eleven on the street.
Complimentary still water and even sparkling water! That's new.
How I always wish there is such a thing like a hardness-adjustable bed in hotels. The Fleming doesn't have that neither but I find the hardness just nice for a good night sleep.
Though not everything from 70s’ Hong Kong is replicated – smoking is prohibited
Inspired by the Star Ferry, an iconic harbour that has served generations of locals, the hotel shows great attention to details. From its predominant colour scheme of carmine reds and bottle green, complemented with embellished gold accents and amber notes, The Fleming is a true embodiment of modernity and nostalgia that characterizes contemporary Hong Kong.
While light switches are golden vintage knobs, do you notice a USB charging outlet? A necessity for modern gadgets.
47Ronin watch strap collection
I love this. Although it is a common feature in hotel rooms, never have I seen such aesthetic version of it.
Another one of the most important places of a hotel room. Do you feel the Omotenashi here?
The hotel room has different style of tile in various locations. Small hexagon off-white tiles for the washroom.
Have you notice how many items are golden so far? Yes, including the dustbin.
They even have their own "brew of the day". Coffee addicts, you are well taken care of.
Did I just mention having a party here?
Simple, symmetrical marble tiles for the dressing room.
What it really looks like in a 1930s cruise ferry.
The Fleming's bespoke ‘Shen Nong’ bathroom amenities tailor-made based on principles of Chinese apothecary, with different selections for morning and evening. A signature scent evokes a feeling of old Hong Kong, an aroma of sandalwood and amber reminiscent of the fragrant harbour scents that emanated across the harbour of old.
I remember when I was a kid, I went to my grandma's place in Hong Kong and I saw the floor numbers are written like these too. My grandma's place had since been demolished for new development many years ago.
Found something from Singapore! High quality tea from TWG, popular as a souvenir.
A very old style glass pattern with straight multiple strips running vertically.
Same goes for this glass wall separating the bathroom and the bedroom.
Quality toiletries at at your service.
Besides being golden, the shower is also another pleasant surprise for its unique design: there is only a single row of waterholes on the shower-head.
Affixing Japanese School Uniform Buttons
After exploring the hotel, I sat down with Lifestyle Journal to share some insights on his experiences with founding and managing the brand.
Photoshoot with Lifestyle Journal
Behind the scenes – the meticulous process that goes into every 47Ronin watch strap
It was a fruitful session as I shared my motivations and visions for starting 47Ronin, the uniqueness of Japanese materials, as well as the time and labour devoted to each and every customized watch strap. Lifestyle Journal also took the opportunity to document the rare behind-the-scenes production of 47Ronin watch strap.
End of work – time for a cup of coffee! A complimentary welcome drink from The Fleming.
47Ronin would like to extend a sincere gratitude and appreciation to Lifestyle Journal and The Fleming Hotel for their hospitality and providing the opportunity for an engaging session. Till next time, Hong Kong!
A last selfie before checking-out, totally in love with the bottle green tiles.
Signing off, Tong from 47Ronin Watch Straps
Text by Xiu Ting
Special thanks to:
Jaz Kong (Lifestyle Journal, Journalist)
Ben Tam (Lifestyle Journal, Photographer)
Janice Mo (Voltage PR, PR & Events Executive)
Featured watches:
SIXOFOUR (Vancouver)
Watanabe Kobo (Tokyo)
JW Watch (Hong Kong)
AVI-8 (Hong Kong)
Phantoms Lab (Hong Kong)
Partner artist
Hypebaysg (Singapore)
Sources
https://www.archdaily.com/883596/the-fleming-hotel-a-work-of-substance
https://www.aworkofsubstance.com/en/project/the-fleming/
https://retaildesignblog.net/2017/12/05/the-fleming-hotel-by-a-work-of-substance-hong-kong/