Completed in 1976 Alexandra House stands tall. It’s a testament to Hong Kong’s dynamic growth. This impressive structure boasts 37 levels. It’s not just offices though. Alexandra House also houses a vibrant shopping arcade Landmark Alexandra. It seamlessly connects to the Central Elevated Walkway.
Imagine the bustling streets below. Alexandra House has always been a landmark. Its current incarnation is actually the third building on this site to bear the name. The original Alexandra Building a five-story marvel with arched verandahs was named for Queen Alexandra. It stood proudly from 1904 to 1950. It even had an Otis electric lift a luxury for its time. The Hongkong Electric Company provided the electric lights.
Then came the second Alexandra House. Built in two phases between 1950 and 1956 it too had its day. Demolition began in 1974 making way for the giant you see today. The current Alexandra House was a massive undertaking costing HK 106 million. It was built by Paul Y Construction. At the time it was the tallest building in Hong Kong built using slip forming a remarkable feat of engineering. Its fifteen lifts served its many occupants. The building’s design incorporated Hong Kong’s first outdoor escalators. Hongkong Land moved its headquarters here upon completion in September 1976.
Today Alexandra House continues to evolve. In 2002 Hongkong Land revamped the podium. A new Chater Road entrance and retail spaces were added. Then in 2012 Hongkong Land launched the Landmark brand. This unified four retail buildings including the renamed Landmark Alexandra. The building’s tenants are prestigious. They include three Michelin-starred 8 1/2 Otto e Mezzo. Luxury brands like Prada Burberry Dolce & Gabbana and Ermenegildo Zegna occupy the retail space. High-profile firms like Christie’s and various law firms call this iconic building home.
So next time you’re in Central look up. You’ll be looking at a piece of Hong Kong’s history and a symbol of its ongoing success. Alexandra House is more than just a building it’s a living story.