FWD Group ("FWD") celebrated the grand opening of House 1881 with an exciting launch party yesterday. Marking a new chapter for one of Hong Kong's most iconic heritage destinations, the former Marine Police Headquarters in Tsim Sha Tsui welcomed more than 600 VIPs, celebrities and government officials to the newly revitalised property. During the impressive launch event, guests had opportunities to sample cuisines and beverages from the five restaurants and bars and view the boutique hotel.
The afternoon launch ceremony was officiated by The Hon. Mrs. Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor, GBM, GBS, The Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; The Hon. Ronald Arculli, GBM, CVO, GBS, OBE, JP, Chairman of the Board of FWD Group; Richard Li Tzar Kai, Chairman and Chief Executive of Pacific Century Group (PCG); Victor T K Li, Chairman of CK Asset Holdings Limited; Huynh Thanh Phong, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of FWD Group and Ken Lau Chi-kin, Managing Director of Greater China & Hong Kong Chief Executive Officer of FWD.
Following the official launch event, guests embraced the celebratory mood of the evening and were presented with individual maps to navigate their way through the landscaped gardens and discover House 1881's innovative dining concepts. At each station, guests were encouraged to sample the various cuisines and engage in a series of interactive performances. While Café Parlour projected images of the signature dishes and offered guests tasters, The Sergeant's Bar presented refreshing beverages in a relaxing ambience. At Fortune Villa, guests received personalised calligraphy engravings and The Stable Steak House served the restaurant's signature Beef Consommé. At Stable Bar, guests were invited to shake things up with the resident mixologist and create their own personal cocktail.
Throughout the function, a DJ kept the mood upbeat as roving entertainers interacted with passersby. As the night progressed, guests assembled into House 1881's central courtyard to watch mesmerising performances by troupes of dancers, from modern Tai Chi artists to professional ballerinas. Occupying the buildings that surround the central courtyard, the performers were dressed as Hong Kong's everyday heroes, from construction workers and House 1881 employees to basketballers. The 15-minute routine entertained the crowd of over 500 and took full advantage of the unique architecture, transforming the building into an interactive performance space.
The grand finale reflected FWD's 'Celebrate Living' brand promise. While yesterday's events celebrated the official opening of House 1881, it also marked the debut of a 3D light extravaganza, "Our Harbour ‧ Our Stories", that will become a key weekend feature at House 1881. Colourful and impactful, the synchronised light show highlights Hong Kong's traditions and cultural icons as well as Victoria Harbour's changing landscape. Like House 1881, the light show celebrates the city's rich heritage and defining moments. After yesterday's inaugural display, local and overseas visitors will be able to enjoy the light show at 8:30pm every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, as well as public holidays.
