Lippo Centre Tower 1

Gazing up at the Lippo Centre Tower 1, have you ever wondered about its unusual design? Right here in Admiralty, this architectural marvel, also known as part of the Lippo Centre, stands tall at 172 meters with 46 floors. The dark blue, reflective glass panels that clad the building create an ever-changing spectacle as they mirror the sky. Lippo Centre Tower 1, completed in 1988, is more than just an office building. It’s a testament to the vision of American architect Paul Rudolph, who designed it in collaboration with Wong & Ouyang (HK) Ltd. Rudolph aimed to give the building a strong presence from every angle, near and far, and he succeeded. The cantilevered projections, often compared to koalas clinging to a tree, give the Lippo Centre its distinctive look. These unique extrusions house the “sky-rooms”, offering unparalleled views of Hong Kong. The building’s history is as fascinating as its architecture. Originally commissioned as the Bond Centre, it was later acquired by Alan Bond, an Australian tycoon. Financial troubles led Bond to sell the building in the same year it opened, and it was renamed Lippo Centre. Despite local feng shui consultants attributing bad luck to the building’s design, it remains a prominent landmark. The Lippo Centre Tower 1, connected to Hong Kong’s elevated walkway network, offers convenient access to the city. Inside, the lobby features dramatic bas-relief murals by artist Gerard D’Alton Henderson, adding an artistic touch to this modern marvel. So, next time you see Lippo Centre Tower 1, remember its unique design, history, and the vision of the architect who wanted it to “inhabit the sky.”