How do we breathe new life into this historical boat club, without taking away its character and essence? The Aberdeen Boat Club is one of the most unique historical buildings in Hong Kong of more than 40 years. To revitalize the club, while maintaining its unique character, we outlined 3 concepts to guide the design: Nautical themes, historical elements, accent colours.

Nautical Themes
The design is inspired by nautical themes, featuring playful elements like portals and fluid forms inspired by maritime forms to evoke the essence of waterfront life. The dynamic wooden strips at the façade are twisted to mimic the shape of a boat hull. At the restaurant “The Galley”, elements such as the 3-dimensional bar counter, the hanging display of brass and fluted glass as well as the vaulted forms of the ceiling and wall panels are all modern interpretation of boat designs to instantly transport the visitors into a nautical themed restaurant.

Historical Elements
Key existing elements with historical value were identified to be preserved and celebrated to keep a connection with the past. At the main entrance, an iconic existing skylight adorned with an anchor motif is enhanced through the introduction of soft atmospheric lighting. A highlight of the interior is the preserved hexagonal staircase, which is enveloped in varying tones of wooded textures that accentuate its unique geometry. Gentle lighting along the staircase handrails creates an inviting ambiance. The lounge area responds to the existing unconventional hexagonal space and iconic arch, by introducing curved arches each serving a distinct purpose—ranging from a reception counter to a souvenir display, as well as a pathway to the restaurant.

Accent Colours
To embody the spirit of the Aberdeen Boat Club, an accent colour scheme was selected to resemble the varying blue, green, orange and yellow tones of the sky at sunset – reflecting that moment of peace at the end of an eventful day out boating in the sea. The colours come together in perfect harmony at “The Galley” to allude a sense of calm and tranquillity to celebrate the members love of boating and the sea. Historical elements of the clubhouse are also celebrated using the accent colours, such as the repainting of the historical anchor sculpture at the entrance, iconic hexagonal ceiling trims, and existing window frames. The feature tiles at the washroom uses 2 tones from the sunset colour scheme to subtly identify between the male and female washroom.

This revitalization project successfully marries thoughtful design and materiality with a deep respect for the club's heritage. By creating a modern reinterpretation of nautical themes, we not only preserve the character of the clubhouse but also foster a renewed sense of community and belonging, ensuring that the spirit of the Aberdeen Boat Club continues to thrive for generations to come.