ADRIAN CHAN
DESIGN & RESEARCH
OFFICE

ADRIAN CHAN
DESIGN &
RESEARCH OFFICE

INGENUITY IN THE REALM
OF THE INTERIOR

MARYKNOLL CONVENT SCHOOL LOUNGE

TYPOLOGY

WORKPLACE

YEAR
2025
LOCATION
HONG KONG
YEAR
2025
LOCATION
HONG KONG
YEAR
2025
LOCATION
HONG KONG

Nestled within the historic Maryknoll Convent School, a prestigious school for girls, this newly reimagined teachers' lounge transforms a long disused vestibule into a vibrant, multi-use venue for connection, pause, and collaboration. Framed by the 1925 stained-glass window, arched beams and marble wainscot — elements that could not be tampered with due to the site’s landmarked status — the minimal intervention is both reverent and contemporary. Through bold furniture design pieces and a layout organized along a central axis that celebrates the symmetricality of classical architecture, the project is an assertive gesture that strengthens the dialogue between past and present.

At the heart of the space, a sculptural S-shaped sofa anchors a choreography of movement and gathering, creating zones for individual work, impromptu meetings, chance encounters and collective respite. Intentional design moves, including a geometric rug design that acts as a counterpoint to the stained glass window, foreground educators' comfort and showcase how adaptive reuse can reframe institutional heritage for contemporary workplace needs.