BuildDirect Goes to ‘Noble House’

by Rob Banks

Taipan of the Noble House; Ian Dunross Struans. If these names mean anything to you you’ll probably enjoy this blog post. James Clavell (of Shogun fame) wrote a fabulous novel called Noble House. It was a sequel to the equally impressive novel, Taipan.

These are my two favorite books.  I read them as a young adult and have re-read them several times. My wife thinks I’m crazy since I read them so often, but they are inspirational and entertaining for me. They definitely influenced my career path. I have always been enthralled (obsessed) with martial arts and Asian culture.  This book, which takes place in Hong Kong, fed that Asian obsession.

When I researched and learned that the novel was loosely based on fact (the business history of a company called Jardine Matheson), I was hooked. I was fascinated with the aspects of global trade & finance along with the dynamics of doing business as a foreigner in Asia. I visited Hong Kong as a 20 year old, have been back numerous times and have loved the city ever since.

Noble House was a mini-series on NBC in 1988 starring Pierce Brosnan. In the mini-series the Jardine House was used as the location of the Noble House.  Jardine Matheson is still located in this building.  Formerly known as Connaught Center, it is a 52 storey building built in 1972. It is the star of this brief video I took on a recent trip to Hong Kong.  Enjoy!

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