Review of The Upper House

“This is your private residence in the sky, not just a hotel.” 

Elevated above the cosmopolitan heart of Hong Kong at Pacific Place, The Upper House is a tranquil sanctuary that redefines urban luxury. Conceived by celebrated architect André Fu, this boutique hotel—part of The House Collective—delivers a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere with a distinctive residential feel. With just 117 suites and rooms, all featuring serene, neutral palettes and expansive layouts, guests are immersed in an ambiance that feels like a curated apartment rather than a traditional hotel stay. The journey through the property begins at the dramatic "Stone Curtains" by Thomas Heatherwick and continues upward to floors bathed in natural light, each level showcasing unique commissioned artworks that reflect Hong Kong’s vibrant spirit. 

Four distinct dining venues await: the Mediterranean-inspired Salisterra, the European-style Continental Restaurant & Bar, the Japanese Matcha-focused Matchali Café, and The Lawn—an exclusive outdoor retreat. Wellness is woven into the fabric of the guest experience, from sunrise yoga and guided meditation to a 24-hour gym equipped with the latest fitness technology. In-room spa rituals feature Bamford’s organic amenities, all underscoring The Upper House’s dedication to holistic well-being. 

The Upper House is an integral member of The House Collective family, alongside The Temple House (Chengdu), The Middle House (Beijing), and The Opposite House (Shanghai), renowned for their design-led luxury and exceptional service.

Situated at the pinnacle of Pacific Place, The Upper House offers direct access to Hong Kong’s premier luxury shopping and dining complex, home to global designer boutiques and the flagship Harvey Nichols. The property is surrounded by fellow five-star hotels such as Conrad, Island Shangri-La, and JW Marriott, as well as exclusive private residences. The Admiralty MTR station is steps away, providing seamless connections to Central, Tsim Sha Tsui, and beyond. 

Guests can easily explore the fashionable Starstreet Precinct, brimming with indie shops, art galleries, and eclectic cafés, or find respite in the lush Hong Kong Park, just a short walk from the hotel. For those seeking outdoor adventure, nearby botanical gardens and scenic hiking trails offer a refreshing perspective on the city’s green side. 

The Upper House is approximately 35 kilometers from Hong Kong International Airport. Private transfers via the hotel’s BMW limousine fleet typically take about 30 minutes. Alternatively, the Airport Express provides a swift 25-minute journey from the arrivals hall to Hong Kong Station, where a quick MTR ride or taxi brings you directly to your urban retreat.

André Fu’s vision fuses natural oak, limestone, and glass with understated, contemporary design, creating a harmonious sense of calm throughout the accommodations. Bathrooms evoke a spa-like ambiance, featuring oversized limestone soaking tubs, rainfall showers, and Bamford’s organic bath amenities. Each suite includes a walk-in dressing area and breathtaking city or mountain vistas framed by floor-to-ceiling windows. In-room technology includes IPTV, surround sound, a dual-zone wine fridge, Nespresso coffee machine with curated teas, yoga mat, complimentary Maxi Bar, and unlimited filtered water. Accessible accommodations are also thoughtfully provided. 

Accommodation categories include the Studio 70 (68 sqm) and Studio 80 (78 sqm), as well as an exclusive trio of suites: the Upper Suites (114 sqm), the André Fu Suite, and the Penthouse, both offering a generous 182 sqm of living space. 

Upper Suites are defined by their open-plan layouts, bespoke art collections, and plush window seating—ideal for soaking in panoramic views of Victoria Harbour or the surrounding peaks. The interiors layer tactile materials and neutral tones, prioritizing comfort and function with intuitive touch controls for lighting and entertainment. 

The André Fu Suite—named for the designer’s longstanding connection to the property—serves as a refined haven for relaxation or private entertaining. Its tranquil palette of mineral blue and soft neutrals, dining table for up to 18 guests, fully equipped kitchen, and dedicated spa area with twin massage beds set a new benchmark for luxury. The Penthouse, with two bedrooms and sweeping city vistas, offers a sophisticated residential experience at the apex of Hong Kong hospitality.

Staying at The Upper House means enjoying immediate access to Pacific Place’s world-class retail and dining, including the innovative spaces conceived by Thomas Heatherwick. Guests are encouraged to register for the Pacific Place Traveller Pass, unlocking exclusive shopping privileges and bespoke gifts throughout their stay. 

The Upper House prioritizes guest wellbeing, offering a robust schedule of complimentary group yoga, meditation, and fitness sessions, as well as a monthly running club that explores the verdant surrounds. The 24-hour gym is equipped with the latest TechnoGym equipment, free weights, and personal trainer support on request. In-room wellness treatments using Bamford’s organic products provide an indulgent escape without leaving your suite. 

Art and culture are central to the hotel’s identity. Throughout the property, guests encounter specially commissioned installations, such as Hiroshi Sawada’s water-inspired piece, “Rise,” in the atrium. The Upper House also hosts its signature "Up Close" talks—intimate gatherings where innovators and tastemakers share insights and spark creative dialogue, further enhancing the guest journey.

The Upper House stands as a paragon of contemporary design, seamlessly blending minimalist aesthetics with residential warmth. Every aspect of the property—from the tranquil guest rooms to the thoughtfully curated public spaces—reflects an unwavering commitment to harmony and visual balance, appealing to discerning travelers with an appreciation for modern luxury.

The hotel’s residential concept ensures an inviting, home-like ambiance, where meticulous attention to detail is evident in everything from the artful interiors to the polished, intuitive service and wellness-focused amenities. Environmental consciousness is woven throughout the experience, reflecting the property’s dedication to sustainable luxury. It’s a rare pleasure to find a hotel that feels like a private city retreat, and The Upper House has become my preferred address in Hong Kong.

Salisterra, perched at the top of The Upper House, delivers all-day Mediterranean-inspired dining with sweeping views of Victoria Harbour. The space, designed to evoke the sun-kissed hues of the Mediterranean coast, is helmed by Michelin-starred chef Jun Tanaka, whose menus highlight sustainable ingredients and bold, seasonal flavors. The restaurant’s open kitchen and semi-private tables create a vibrant yet intimate setting, with signature dishes ranging from handmade pastas and grilled seafood to inventive vegetarian plates and exquisite patisserie. Private dining is available for groups, while curated picnic baskets are perfect for a leisurely afternoon on The Lawn.

For an elevated in-suite experience, The Nightery offers bespoke menus and expertly crafted cocktails delivered directly to your suite by the Salisterra team—a favorite for romantic evenings or special celebrations. 

The Continental Restaurant & Bar, located on Level Four, channels the spirit of a classic European café. Guests can enjoy breakfast, all-day dining, or weekend brunch on the tranquil terrace, surrounded by elegant leather, marble, and wood accents. The menu is rooted in European tradition, with seasonal produce and refined desserts taking center stage. 

The Lawn, a secluded outdoor oasis on Level Six, invites guests to relax with a glass of wine, light bites, or join one of the hotel’s popular pop-up culinary collaborations.

Also on Level Six, Matchali presents a refined take on Japanese matcha culture, using ceremonial-grade matcha sourced directly from Uji, Kyoto. The café’s menu features hand-whisked beverages such as Matcha and Hojicha Lattes, Pumpkin Spice infusions, and the signature Dirty Matcha with Café Kitsuné espresso—making it a destination for both connoisseurs and casual drinkers.

Swire Hotels is dedicated to minimizing its environmental footprint through meaningful partnerships and innovative initiatives. The brand actively fosters a culture of sustainability, encouraging both guests and team members to embrace eco-friendly practices and community engagement. Through collaborations with local and international partners, The Upper House continually evolves its approach to responsible hospitality. 

As part of its longstanding partnership with Bamford, The House Collective transitioned to aluminum packaging for in-room amenities—offering a 100% recyclable, tamper-proof, and hygienic alternative to plastic. The Upper House is recognized for its creative and ethical guest experiences, supporting both environmental stewardship and the local community. 

Since 2018, the hotel has worked closely with the Hong Kong Down Syndrome Association, providing training and employment opportunities for its members. The Upper House also supports Soap Cycling, redistributing gently used bath products to those in need, and partners with Mother’s Choice to empower children and pregnant teens through hospitality training and donations. 

IMPACTHK, another valued partner, helps the city’s homeless population reintegrate into society through community connections and job opportunities. Notably, The Upper House’s annual charitable collaborations—including the design and auction of a unique Christmas tree—have generated significant funds for local causes, further cementing the hotel’s reputation as a leader in ethical luxury.

• Trailblazing Design: Since its debut, The Upper House has consistently set the standard for contemporary hospitality in Hong Kong. Its timeless, innovative approach has ensured it remains a touchstone for luxury travelers across Asia.
• Curated Art Collection: The hotel’s spaces double as an ever-evolving art gallery, with installations such as Hiroshi Sawada’s “Rise” in the atrium leaving a lasting impression. Every visit reveals new creative perspectives, making The Upper House a living canvas.
• Impeccable Service: The team at The Upper House delivers seamless, anticipatory service that feels both personal and intuitive. This commitment to hospitality excellence is a key reason the hotel continues to attract a discerning global clientele.Varun SharmaEditor-In-ChiefBusinessclass

• Our Team: The heart of The Upper House is its people. Swire Hotels’ unique culture encourages innovation and individuality, empowering staff to deliver genuinely thoughtful experiences for every guest.
• The Lawn: My personal sanctuary within the House, The Lawn is a lush hideaway for relaxation and social gatherings. The recently updated furniture by Harbour—especially the dog-friendly daybeds—makes it a favourite spot for both guests and their four-legged companions.
• André Fu Suite: A tribute to the creative partnership between the designer and the hotel, the André Fu Suite is his only namesake suite worldwide. It’s conceived as a versatile space for both hosting and unwinding, embodying the spirit of The Upper House.Kristina Snaith-Lense General ManagerThe Upper House