Located on a steep site in Hong Kong’s Mid-Levels, 28 Po Shan Road is positioned between Victoria Harbour and the woodland rising behind it. The design responds to this setting by opening the residence towards the harbour while addressing the site’s planning and geotechnical constraints.
The project works within a maximum building height of 43 metres and a site coverage limit of 33.33%. Rather than concentrating the permitted floor area within a conventional podium-and-tower arrangement, the building is divided into a series of horizontal layers.
Terraces of different depths are carved into these layers and oriented towards the surrounding landscape. Connected curved façade planes bring the composition together, reducing the visual weight of the building and creating a continuous relationship between the interior spaces, terraces and hillside. More than 90% of the occupied spaces maintain a direct visual connection with the outdoors.
The steep terrain presented several engineering challenges, including restrictions on bulk excavation and the risk of landslides. A permanent soldier pile retaining wall was constructed behind the residence to stabilise the slope. Its upper section is covered by a vertical green wall that connects visually with the woodland, while natural stone wraps the base and forms a backdrop to the private garden and outdoor swimming pool.
The internal arrangement establishes a gradual transition from shared to private spaces. Parking is located on the lower-ground levels, with reception and social spaces above. Areas intended for family members and close friends occupy the middle floors, while bedrooms and en-suite spaces are positioned on the upper levels. The rooftop accommodates additional amenities and provides views across Victoria Harbour.
Environmental measures are integrated into the architecture and landscape. Low-E insulated glazing reduces solar heat gain, while high-COP VRV systems and energy-efficient LED lighting help reduce operational energy demand. Local plant species support biodiversity, and restrained façade lighting limits disruption to the surrounding woodland at night.
Through its layered massing, planted retaining wall and sequence of terraces, 28 Po Shan Road responds directly to the site’s height, coverage and topographical constraints. The result is a residence that maintains views across the city while remaining closely connected to its hillside setting.
