Vicky and Henry Lai have well-read fish. An aquarium accommodating exotic discus freshwater fish is a key design feature in the couple's well-stocked library.
The tank was one of solicitor Henry's few requests when the couple renovated their 1,600 sq ft Pok Fu Lam apartment last year.
'Henry's easy-going when it comes to decor, but he had an opinion on the major things,' Vicky says. 'He finds the fish relaxing and has kept them since he was a child.'
Spatial Concept director Gary Lai (no relation) says the tank required a lot of preparation to install.
'We needed to be careful with the loading of the apartment and the tank also had to connect to the water system and pipes,' he says.
In addition to incorporating the water feature into the layout, Lai was tasked with brightening the interior. Built-in laminate cabinets that made the place feel cramped and dark were replaced with handleless white oak units to provide a seamless finish and reflect light. The Lais moved into the flat when they outgrew their 1,000 sq ft home in the building next door.