Mark Cho, the co-founder of The Armoury, a notable menswear store, has embarked on a unique venture to redefine retail space in Hong Kong’s historic Pedder Building. The building, a grade one-listed edifice dating back to 1924, is now home to The Pedder Arcade, a bespoke retail concept envisioned by Cho. This innovative project was born out of Cho’s fascination with London’s characterful shopping arcades and his desire to create a similar experience in Hong Kong.
The concept behind The Pedder Arcade is to create an upscale, sophisticated shopping environment that offers a leisurely and refined experience, contrary to the bustling malls typical of Hong Kong. Cho’s idea was to develop a coherent mix of high-end boutiques under one roof, resembling the classic English country house libraries. The Armoury, initially located on the third floor, has now moved to a more spacious fifth-floor unit as part of this grand plan.
The project, a post-pandemic initiative of Cho, involves a complete redesign of the fifth floor of the Pedder Building, transforming it into an elegant arcade. The design, executed by architect Katherine Wong, focuses on maximizing the natural light and space, offering an airy and inviting atmosphere. The redesign includes large windows with semicircular glass arches, echoing the stone arches at the building’s entrance, and skylights that simulate natural weather conditions.
This arcade hosts a collection of luxury brands and bespoke services, including The Armoury, Drumohr, Nigel Cabourn, and Davidoff cigars. Cho has carefully curated these brands, ensuring they align with the arcade’s ethos and appeal to a discerning clientele. The space also features JK on the Fifth, a cafe tribute to the famous Jimmy’s Kitchen, adding a gastronomic dimension to the shopping experience.
Cho’s venture is not just a business endeavor but a passion project driven by his love for classic and timeless design. It represents a significant shift in the retail landscape of Hong Kong, introducing a concept that blends the charm of traditional shopping arcades with modern luxury. The Pedder Arcade promises a unique shopping experience that respects the building’s historical significance while offering an exclusive array of products and services.
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