Hong Kong’s latest creative lifestyle hub – PMQ – combines all the city’s legendary dash and brio with a slice of history and a wealth of innovative shopping.
Just off Hollywood Road in the heart of Hong Kong Island, PMQ quickly became the edgiest place to hang out, dine out and check out what’s on offer from some of the coolest local designers.
Anchored by well-established names like Goods Of Desire and Vivienne Tam, PMQ is also home to a broad palette of young talent, many of whom design and manufacture their fashion goods and accessories on the spot, so customers can witness the creative process first-hand.
PMQ is the latest hip, creative hangout in Hong Kong — Photo courtesy of PMQ
PMQ was built after World War II on the site of a former school, and for many years housed police officers and their families – the Police Married Quarters. It’s divided into a brace of seven-story blocks dubbed "Staunton and Hollywood," which face each other across a central covered piazza, the venue for weekly night markets and similar events.
Wide-open verandas on each floor make for easy strolling and browsing between the boutiques, and there’s an inspiring sense when you look across at the opposite block, which acts almost like a mirror. A bamboo-swathed roof garden links the two blocks, adding a sense of tranquillity, while a row of venerable banyan trees shade PMQ’s northern fringe.
A prime example of PMQ’s designer synergy is on display daily at YC, a vibrant atelier that’s home to a trio of fashion designers – Yeung Chin, Rachel Chan and Isabel Tong.
There’s a great deal of youthful energy flowing around PMQ; little-known brands and off-the-wall gimmicks ensure surprises on tap and a double portion of entertainment. In a similar vein to YC, The Refinery is curated by fashion hipster Elizabeth Lau, and showcases her own brand of knitware as well as numerous international brands.
Youngsters are well catered for at tóng-cháu, whose chic duds are designed by owner Claire Wong. Girls go crazy for the peplum tops, while boys need only a little prompting to admit that the neon knitwear is kinda cool.
Nu Design features a range of award-winning leather and lifestyle products. There are plenty of funky imports at PMQ, too. 513 Paint Shop stocks non-toxic paints made in France in a variety of colors that make a rainbow look positively unimaginative.
Most importantly, a trip to PMQ isn’t necessarily going to steamroll the credit card, with many items selling for as little as a few dollars.
PMQ also gets creative when it comes to dining. Aberdeen Street Social is the latest venture from Michelin-starred Chef Jason Atherton – a restaurant, cocktail bar and café specializing in modern British cuisines that also boasts a lovely garden terrace. And taking a walk on the wild side, Fatina & Chefo: Eat & Play is a whimsical eatery with an enticing menu of snacks, savories and desserts.
