The views available from the rooftop of The Murray were the principal driver for Foster + Partners’ design of Popinjays – the hotel’s restaurant and bar, which was named after the resident cockatoos along neighbouring Garden Road, Hong Kong Park and Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens. The term ‘popinjay’ is an old-world term for ‘parrot’, and was selected to communicate a sociable spirit.

“On our very first visit to the site, we were inspired by the panoramic views from The Peak to the harbour from the rooftop of The Murray Building,” explains Luke Fox, Head of Studio, Foster + Partners. “We sought to capitalise on the unique location of The Murray by relocating the services to other unobtrusive locations within the building, and creating an extraordinary setting for Popinjays that embraces the intense urbanity and unique topography of Hong Kong.”

The 114-seat venue is set within a purpose-built glass pavilion atop the 25-storey building, and enjoys abundant natural light during day service and abundant twinkling views at night. A 360-square-metre outdoor terrace wraps around and frames the indoor dining area, private dining room and bar. Outdoor lounge, table and bar seating allows patrons to engage with the external environment in multiple ways.

Inside, the space is a composition of cool greys, bold blues and gold accents, with a particular emphasis on lighting fixtures as points of focus and a means of bringing cohesion to particular zones. On the walls are colourful artworks by American artist and designer Brian Donnelly (KAWS). Private dining room The Aviary seats up to 14 guests.

“As Popinjays marks the historic completion of the hotel, we are all very excited to welcome our resident and visiting guests to this magnificent rooftop space,” says Duncan Palmer, Managing Director of The Murray. He adds, “The opening of Popinjays is a highlight not only for The Murray but also the city’s restaurant and bar scene.”