This Hong Kong home embodies ‘the essence of a chapel’ for a faith-filled family

Recommended by a mutual friend, Chow found in his clients – devoted Christian parents involved in real estate development – kindred spirits who shared his appreciation for natural forms and understood his vision for creating spaces with soul.

“We really listened to the owners about what they wanted,” he says, “and we created something together, something really beautiful.”

With views of lush green hills, the 4,500 sq ft, three-bedroom, five-bathroom Chapel Residence nestled on Hong Kong Island stands as a testament to thoughtful design. Indeed, the renovation of the mid-1970s, six-storey home achieves what Chow describes as “the essence of a chapel” within an urban family residence.

Its contemplative tone is palpable from the ground-floor foyer, which doubles as “a tranquil space for meditation and weekend Bible study groups”, says Chow of the entrance, which boasts a 3.5-metre-high ceiling.

On the first level, the heart of the home unfolds in a spectacular double-height living space, where Chow’s signature curved arches create an embracing retreat. “Instead of being very monumental, like Greek columns, they’re actually modelled after the human body,” he says. “They’re very soft and curve in and out, kind of like a corset.”

Drawing inspiration from monastery architecture, these flowing apertures, crafted from fibreglass and finished with a soft coating of Italian travertine, are arranged in two tiers, classical curved forms at ground level, crowned by inverted arches that elegantly frame the dining area on the mezzanine above. These gentle curves seem to reach out, enhancing what Chow calls “the sense of security and peace and making the home feel nurturing”. Even utilitarian features such as air-conditioning vents blend seamlessly into the curved walls, creating “a unified aesthetic that elevates the entire space”.