Mi2 × WeWork

The world of work is changing. Gone are the days when work was viewed and judged purely on output. Nowadays, experience and wellbeing are increasingly recognized as being key drivers of productivity. 

Where we work is now seen as vital in enhancing our working experience. A belief in ‘space as an experience’ is at the heart of the philosophy of WeWork – the leading global provider of coworking spaces.

Founded in New York in 2010, WeWork has been at the forefront of the global coworking revolution, and now provides innovative office spaces in 22 countries worldwide. Over the past few years, the coworking concept has really caught on in Asia. In China alone, there has been a proliferation of freelancers and start-ups in major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Chengdu, Hangzhou and Hong Kong, all of whom are seeking stylish, affordable and inspiring spaces from which to work and develop their businesses.

As the market leader in innovative office design in Asia Pacific, it was a natural fit for Mi2 to partner with WeWork.

Mi2 interpreted WeWork’s design concept for its new coworking space in CityPlaza Three in Taikoo Place, Hong Kong. The brief was to marry WeWork’s pioneering spirit of inclusiveness and community with Hong Kong’s unique local characteristics. By taking inspiration from the evocative bustle of traditional Hong Kong street life and combining it with the efficiency and convenience of this most modern of cities, we have created a dynamic work community that is both rooted in traditional Hong Kong culture, while at the same time redefines the modern work experience.

Capturing the essence of old Hong Kong

Crowded narrow streets, flashing neon signs, bustling cha chaan teng (traditional Hong Kong café-restaurants) – these are the iconic symbols of Hong Kong. These settings have formed the backdrop to countless films and TV shows and have become places where locals and tourists alike come to experience the essence of old Hong Kong.

Our interpretation of WeWork’s Cityplaza Three space is inspired by Hong Kong’s classic streetscapes. Vibrant colors and bold splashes of neon color evoke the energy that the city has long been renowned for. 

Pop art and neon signs adorn the walls, while the use of bright and contrasting oranges, yellows and blues create a unique working environment brimming with dynamism.

A section of the recreation area is inspired by Hong Kong’s classic cha chaan teng. With its red banquette seats and retro formica tabletops, it makes you feel as if you are on location in a classic Hong Kong movie.

East meets west, old meets new

Hong Kong combines the best of Chinese and Western cultures. It is a modern, cosmopolitan city that retains itstraditional, old-fashioned character. Once seen as small and overcrowded, Hong Kong today is the model of an efficient and convenient global city.

The WeWork space we have created takes full advantage of its location as part of Taikoo Place, one of the city’s best destinations for shopping, entertainment and business. Located in Cityplaza Three, at the center of the Taikoo Place development, it has direct access to both the MTR and to the adjacent shopping mall. Based on WeWork’s original design brief, our designers have created a calm, natural oasis in the heart of this bustling, vibrant city.

The fourth-floor office space (over 4,000sqm)maximizes use of natural light, with its large windows and clear sightlines affording stunning views across Victoria Harbour and Quarry Bay Park – a harmony of natural beauty and stunning cityscape.

Making maximum use of limited space

In a crowded metropolis like Hong Kong, a key design challenge is how to make maximum use of limited space.

For this WeWork space, the design ensures maximum flexibility throughout, with mobile partitions allowing spaces to be transformed and customized easily, enabling them to be used for a variety of business and leisure purposes depending on requirements. The result provides a wide range of different work, meeting and leisure areas, which can also be combined easily for large-scale business meetings, events or parties.

The layout and design of the workspace affords dedicated recreation areas, private offices and meeting rooms, enhancing productivity and efficiency. There is also a games room and an outdoor area, providing multiple options for workers to take a break. 

WeWork Cityplaza Three is the perfect environment for today’s working world – a stimulating and creative workplace in the heart of vibrant, bustling Hong Kong.