SPD3159 Heritage Hong Kong : Building - Government House

Construction of Government House did not start until October 1851, eight years after Hong Kong became a British colony. The building plans, with construction estimated to cost £14,940, were prepared by the second Surveyor General, Charles St George Cleverly. Construction progressed slowly, however, and took four years to complete. In October 1855, Sir John Bowring (1854-1859), the fourth Governor, became the mansion's first tenant.

Government House was declared a monument under the Antiquities and Monuments Ordinance in 1995. This magnificent mansion, combining neo-classical elegance with tropical ambience, was the official residence and office of 25 of Hong Kong's 28 colonial Governors. The Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, Mr Donald Tsang, is the latest host of this impressive building. He is the first Chief Executive to live and work in Government House, marking the beginning of a new era in its 150-year history

The main building of Government House was constructed in 1855 in neo-classical style, incorporating rich colonial characteristics. Over the years, major renovation and alteration works were carried out by various Governors to suit their personal style and needs.The two biggest changes took place in 1889-1891 and during the Japanese occupation of Hong Kong in 1942-1945. In 1889, during the governorship of Sir William Des Voeux (1887-1891), an annex was built on the eastern side of the House to provide more space for social functions. The annex, almost as large as the House proper and linked by a covered stairway, was composed of a ballroom on the upper floor and a supper room below. The project proceeded quickly and was completed in 1891.

Government House continues to be accessible to the public by means of an Open Day, instituted in 1968. The ever-popular Open Day gives the public an opportunity to view the blossoming azaleas in the garden and admire the ambience of the dignified building, with its unique blend of Eastern and Western design.

by Carmen