Windsor House

What if I told you this seemingly ordinary skyscraper, Windsor House, holds a secret history more chilling than a Dairy Farm cold store? Windsor House. It stands before us, a testament to Hong Kong’s relentless drive to build and rebuild. But beneath the gleaming facade of shops and cinemas lies a story of transformation. Windsor House wasn’t always a beacon of commerce. It began its life as the site of Dairy Farm cold stores, a far cry from the bustling retail hub we see today. Hongkong Land, the developer, originally envisioned a hotel gracing this spot. But fate, it seems, had other plans. The cold stores were demolished in 1976, leaving a temporary car park. Then, in 1978, construction began on what would become Windsor House, designed by the renowned firm Palmer and Turner. Interestingly, this wasn’t the first Windsor House in Hong Kong. Another existed on Des Voeux Road, but it met the wrecking ball as part of Hongkong Land’s redevelopment plans. The new Windsor House, strategically angled to offer stunning Victoria Park views, opened its doors with the Inland Revenue Department as its main tenant. They occupied nearly a third of the office space, consolidating departments previously scattered across the city. A crucial design element: the two service cores. This wasn’t just architectural flair. One core served the general public, while the other provided a private entrance for the Inland Revenue Department. Talk about exclusive access. But the Inland Revenue’s stay was temporary. They eventually moved to Revenue Tower, seeking government-owned premises and lower rental costs. In 1987, Windsor House changed hands. Chinese Estates acquired it, along with Harcourt House, for a hefty sum. The retail podium underwent a makeover in 1992. The floors vacated by the Inland Revenue Department were transformed into dining and entertainment spaces, catering to Hong Kong’s vibrant social scene. Another shift occurred in the retail landscape. Lane Crawford, the original anchor tenant, departed for Times Square in 1997. High rents and the allure of a new location prompted the move. Fast forward to the 21st century. Between 2007 and 2010, Windsor House underwent another extensive renovation, adapting to the ever-evolving retail world. Then, in 2015, tycoon Joseph Lau purchased the building. Windsor House continues to evolve, its history etched into the very fabric of Causeway Bay. As you explore its shops and restaurants, remember the journey of this remarkable building. From cold storage to commercial powerhouse, Windsor House stands as a symbol of Hong Kong’s ever-changing landscape.