How to Make a Small Hong Kong Apartment Feel Like a Luxury Penthouse
- Jamie Mak
- Jul 18
- 4 min read
Hong Kong’s skyline is dotted with glittering penthouses—symbols of luxury, space, and exclusivity. But what if you could capture that same penthouse feeling in your modest city flat? At Decor Republic, we believe luxury isn’t about square footage; it’s about thoughtful design, smart choices, and bespoke details that make every day feel extraordinary. Here’s how you can transform your small Hong Kong apartment into a penthouse-style retreat—no major renovation required.
1. Prioritize Space Planning and Zoning
Luxury always starts with a sense of openness and flow. In compact Hong Kong apartments, smart space planning is everything:
Embrace Open Layouts:
Where possible, use furniture to define zones rather than walls. A well-placed sofa can separate living and dining areas while keeping sightlines open.
Multi-Functional Furniture:
Invest in pieces that serve more than one purpose—think ottomans with storage, extendable tables, or beds with built-in drawers.
Minimize Clutter:
Keep surfaces clear and only display items you truly love. Built-in storage or custom cabinetry can help keep essentials out of sight.
2. Invest in Luxe Materials and Finishes
Penthouses are known for their upscale finishes. You can achieve the same effect—even on a budget—by choosing the right materials:
Textured Fabrics: Velvet cushions, silk drapes, or a plush area rug instantly elevate a space.
Marble and Metallic Accents: Introduce touches of marble (real or faux) on tabletops or trays, and opt for brass, gold, or matte black hardware for a high-end feel.
Custom Details: Even small upgrades—like swapping out standard light switches for sleek, modern ones—can make a noticeable difference.
3. Make a Statement with Lighting
Lighting is one of the fastest ways to create a sense of luxury and drama:
Layered Lighting: Combine ambient (ceiling), task (reading lamps), and accent (spotlights or LED strips) lighting for depth and flexibility.
Showpiece Fixtures: A stunning pendant light or sculptural chandelier in the living area draws the eye upward and creates a penthouse vibe.
Smart Lighting: Use smart bulbs or dimmers to set the mood for entertaining, relaxing, or working from home. Brands like Philips Hue or Xiaomi are renter-friendly and easy to install.
4. Add Height and Drama with Window Treatments
Floor-to-ceiling curtains, even if your windows aren’t that tall, give the illusion of height and grandeur:
Hang Curtains High: Mount curtain rods close to the ceiling and let drapes just skim the floor.
Choose Luxe Fabrics: Opt for heavier, lined materials in neutral or jewel tones for a hotel-like effect.
Keep It Simple: Avoid fussy patterns; clean lines and solid colors feel more sophisticated.
5. Curate Your Colour Palette
Penthouse interiors are often defined by calm, cohesive color schemes:
Neutral Foundations: Start with whites, greys, or soft taupe as your base.
Add Depth: Layer in deeper hues like navy, forest green, or charcoal for contrast.
Metallic or Glossy Accents: Use gold, brass, or mirrored accessories to reflect light and add sparkle.
6. Bring in Art and Accessories—But Edit Ruthlessly
A penthouse never feels cluttered; every piece is intentional:
Large-Scale Art: Even in a small space, one oversized artwork or mirror can make a room feel bigger and more curated.
Sculptural Decor: Choose a few statement pieces—like a geometric vase or a designer lamp—instead of many small trinkets.
Personal Touches: Display only your most cherished items, rotating them seasonally to keep the space fresh.
7. Integrate Smart Home Features
Luxury living in Hong Kong is as much about convenience as it is about aesthetics:
Smart Curtains and Blinds: Motorized window treatments add hotel-level comfort (and are surprisingly affordable).
Voice-Controlled Devices: Use Alexa or Google Home to control lighting, music, and even air conditioning for a seamless experience.
Discreet Tech: Hide cables and use wireless charging stations to keep surfaces clean.
8. Go Green with Plants
Nothing says penthouse like lush greenery:
Tall Plants: A fiddle leaf fig or rubber plant draws the eye upward and adds life to corners.
Low-Maintenance Choices: Snake plants or succulents work well in lower-light Hong Kong flats.
Designer Planters: Choose pots in marble, concrete, or metallic finishes for a polished look.
9. Mirror, Mirror: Double Your Space
Mirrors are a classic designer trick for making small spaces feel grand:
Full-Length Mirrors: Lean one against a wall to reflect light and open up the room.
Mirrored Furniture: A mirrored side table or cabinet adds sparkle without overwhelming.
Strategic Placement: Position mirrors to reflect windows or statement lighting for maximum impact.
10. Keep It Impeccably Clean and Organized
Finally, true luxury is in the details. A spotless, well-organized home always feels more expensive and inviting.
Ready to Transform Your Apartment?
At Decor Republic, we specialize in turning compact Hong Kong flats into bespoke, penthouse-inspired retreats. Whether you want a full design-and-build experience or just a refresh with smart tech and luxury styling, our team delivers white-glove service so your home feels 100% you.
Book your free consultation today:
📱 WhatsApp: +852 55431034
Let’s make your dream home a reality—no matter the size.
Jamie
Decor Republic
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