Imagine a place where Renaissance elegance meets Hong Kong history. That place is Jessville. It is a mansion at 128 Pok Fu Lam Road. Jessville is an interesting building.
Jessville’s story began in 1929. William Ngartse Thomas Tam built Jessville. He named it after his wife, Jessie To Pui-Chun. Jessville became their family home. The mansion stands as a testament to their love.
Jessville features Italian Renaissance style. Its design stands out in Hong Kong. Jessville is a rare example of European colonial residential property. It adapted to Hong Kong’s climate. Jessville features deep verandahs for shade.
In 2007, Jessville faced demolition. It was briefly declared a “Proposed monument”. This status offered some protection. Later, the declaration was withdrawn. Jessville was then listed as a Grade III historic building. This offered less protection than monument status.
Originally, there was a plan to demolish Jessville. The plan included construction of three modern residential blocks. Fortunately, Jessville was saved. It was proposed as a clubhouse for the new development.
Later plans evolved again. Jessville was converted into four smaller residential units. This conversion aligned with the building’s original use. In March 2021, the project reached practical completion. The apartments became available for sale or rent. Following its reinvention, the mansion became known as ‘Jessville Manor’.
Purcell was employed by the developer. They provided guidelines for changes. These changes affected the historic building and the new residential development. A key goal was financial stability. It also sought to ensure a sustainable outcome. Recommendations were made to safeguard the building’s historic fabric. Spatial quality was also considered.
Adapting Jessville for modern living presented challenges. Purcell guided the subdivision into four units. They worked to retain character-defining elements. These elements included original doors. They also preserved stained glass and fireplaces. Decorative ceiling mouldings were retained as well.
The team focused on maximum retention. They made like-for-like repairs when possible. Reversibility was a key principle. Interventions were honest and distinct. The roof renewal improved thermal performance. It met modern requirements. They used foam glass insulation and modern waterproofing. Replacement roof tiles matched the original design.
As part of heritage interpretation, public viewing decks were introduced. They allow appreciation of the heritage building. Interpretation panels tell the building’s history. They also describe its original owner. The new residential tower was carefully designed. It minimizes visual impact on Jessville. The sense of place and heritage are retained. They are enhanced where possible.
Jessville strikes a balance between conservation and modern use. It requires creative thinking. It also requires an understanding of the historic asset. Jessville’s values have been retained and enhanced.
Today, Jessville stands. A reminder of Hong Kong’s blend of cultures. It is a testament to architectural adaptation. It is a celebration of history and heritage.