Inspiring Young Architects: My ArchiSchool’s New Curriculum
Hong Kong/ Urbanite/ Architecture

My ArchiSchool Launches Innovative Curriculum to Inspire Young Architects

My Archi Schools Innovative Curriculum Inspires Young Architects Header

Hong Kong-based architecture school, My ArchiSchool, has unveiled its latest curriculum designed to make architectural education accessible to children. With seven years of experience in teaching architectural concepts to young students, the school has reconfigured its curriculum to align with the practical skills required in the field.

The new curriculum aims to equip students with the ability to construct physical models while also fostering an understanding of visualisation using the latest software. My ArchiSchool believes that by introducing these components at an early age, children will develop inventive and creative approaches to the design process. From experimenting with light, colour, and textures to exploring the physical and digital media. Students will be encouraged to push the boundaries of their imagination.

“Our students constantly amaze us, from conceptualizing key elements to exploring design options,’ says the school. Their skillsets, combined with their remarkable imagination, empower them to create a better living environment.

To support its educational endeavours, My ArchiSchool has recently relocated to a larger studio in Hong Kong. The new space features flexible event areas, exhibition spaces, art-making areas, digital media zones, and outdoor terraces. The school is also equipped with 3D-printing facilities and a 3D architecture library, enabling students to engage with cutting-edge technology.

With an in-house event space, laser 2D-printing facilities, and a 3D architecture library, My ArchiSchool plans to host seminars to share the art of architecture with a wider audience. The school also aims to contribute to the visually impaired community by undertaking architectural book projects published in both online and printed formats, featuring braille fonts.

My ArchiSchool offers a range of in-person and online courses, providing aspiring young architects with the opportunity to learn 3D modelling and other essential skills for a career in the built environment.

To learn more about MyArchiSchool and its latest exhibition, visit their website.

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Hong Kong/ Urbanite/ Home Decors

12 Fun and Unique Ornaments to Liven Up Your Christmas Tree

Ornaments Main Photo by Website/The Lion Rock Press, Francfranc, and INSIDE

Decorating the Christmas tree is both a holiday tradition and a creative outlet that lets you add a touch of personal flair to your home. The ornaments you choose can tell a story, reflect your lifestyle, and even highlight your favorite things. Whether it’s a nod to your hobbies or just something that makes you smile, every bauble adds a little magic to the season.

If you’re looking for holiday ornaments that are not just eye-catching but also playful and unexpected, we’ve got 12 quirky designs that will transform your tree into a captivating masterpiece.

Check out these imaginative finds:

Lion Dance Hanging Decoration

Lion Dance Hanging Decoration
Website/The Lion Rock Press

Celebrate the vibrant spirit of Hong Kong with a hand-painted Lion Dance hanging decoration (HK$150) that comes with a satin ribbon and a velvet drawstring bag. An iconic keepsake, this piece will shine on your tree and can even be given to friends as a gift.

Buy from The Lion Rock Press

Steamed Buns Glass Decoration

Steamed Buns Glass Decoration
Website/The Lion Rock Press

Showcase your love for steamed buns with this limited-edition glass ornament (HK$200) that can be part of your Christmas collection. Exquisitely hand-painted, this décor makes for an instant conversation-starter.

Buy from The Lion Rock Press

Louis Vuitton Vivienne Xmas Decoration

Vivienne Xmas Decoration
Website/Louis Vuitton

Ready to splurge? Add a touch of luxury to your holiday decor with the Vivienne Xmas Decoration ($2,500), inspired by Louis Vuitton's charming mascot. Featuring embossed leather on the front, iconic Monogram canvas on the back, and a silk cord for easy hanging, it's a stylish and playful addition to any tree.

Buy from Louis Vuitton

Beaded Spider Ornament

Beaded Spider Ornament
Website/Francfranc

Add a whimsical and unexpected touch to your tree with a beaded spider ornament (HK$68), a festive nod to the folklore of Christmas spiders. Intricately crafted, this unique piece brings charm to your holiday decor.

Buy from Francfranc

Sloth Tangled in Lights Fabric Ornament

Sloth Tangled in Lights Fabric Ornament
Website/Francfranc

Bring a dose of holiday humor to your tree with a sloth tangled in colorful Christmas lights (HK$98)! Crafted from wool, polyester, and iron wire, this ornament is a playful reminder to slow down and savor the season's joys.

Buy from Francfranc

VINTERFINT Handmade Star Hanging Decoration

VINTERFINT Handmade Star Hanging Decoration
Website/IKEA

IKEA's VINTERFINT (HK$19.90) bauble adds a touch of Scandinavian elegance to your holiday decor. These versatile decorative stars can be hung on your tree, displayed on walls or cabinet doors, or even used as accents for a festive table setting.

Buy from IKEA

Hand-Stitched Felt Sheep and Ram

Hand-Stitched Felt Sheep and Ram
Website/INSIDE

Add a delightful touch to your tree with this hand-stitched ram and sheep set (HK$190), expertly crafted by artisans in Jaipur. Made from felt, these adorable decorations can instantly steal the spotlight.

Buy from INSIDE

Percy Pig™ Christmas Pudding Decoration

Percy Pig™ Christmas Pudding Decoration
Website/Marks & Spencer

Bring a smile to your tree with the collectible Percy Pig™ hanging decoration (HK$99). Dressed in an adorable Christmas pudding outfit, Percy is ready to spread holiday cheer with his unique charm.

Buy from Marks & Spencer

Glass Jewelled Ice Cream Hanging Decoration

Glass Jewelled Ice Cream Hanging Decoration
Website/Marks & Spencer

Celebrate your love for sweet treats this Christmas with a delightful ice cream-shaped bauble (HK$79). Crafted from blown glass and adorned with glitter and gem "sprinkles," it’s a fun way to add a touch of whimsy to your holiday decor.

Buy from Marks & Spencer

Hand-Carved Wooden Dolphin Ornament

Hand-Carved Wooden Dolphin Ornament
Website/Thorn & Burrow

Hand-carved and hand-painted, this dolphin ornament (HK$150) comes with a luxurious velvet ribbon, making it a lightweight, special piece that captures the spirit of Hong Kong.

Buy from Thorn & Burrow

Embroidered Double-Decker Bus Ornament

Embroidered Double-Decker Bus Ornament
Website/Thorn & Burrow

Glam up your Christmas tree with a touch of Hong Kong flair with this embroidered Double-Decker Bus ornament (HK$190). Handcrafted with love, this lightweight decoration is also a perfect giftable holiday accent.

Buy from Thorn & Burrow

Reindeer Pom Pom Christmas Bauble

Reindeer Pom Pom Christmas Bauble
Website/NEXT

Crafted from wood and faux fur, this adorable little animal pom pom Christmas bauble (HK$43) adds character and a cozy touch to your holiday decor.

Buy from NEXT

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Hong Kong/ Urbanite/ Commercial

Discover The Twins and SOGO Kai Tak: The Next Big Thing in Urban Shopping

Wave to earth 1 Photo by Courtesy of The Twins

Kai Tak’s rapid urban transformation has just reached a new milestone with The Twins, a cutting-edge mixed-use commercial landmark in East Kowloon!

This striking and unmissable duo of 22-storey towers, each one standing 120 meters tall with 22 stories above ground and 4 below ground, combines sleek architecture with innovative retail concepts.

Sogo
Courtesy of The Twins

In addition to its commercial offering, the project covers 61,000 square feet of greenery and showcases two signature sky gardens of leisure area, setting a new standard for shopping and leisure in Hong Kong.

The spotlight shines on Tower I, home to the highly anticipated SOGO Kai Tak, the department store giant’s first new store location in a decade.

With over 480 brands — including 22 making their Hong Kong debut such as Grams28, Grandioso Emporium, Pebbly, Moulin, and more — this flagship is set to redefine your average shopping experience.

SOGO Kai Tak has something for everyone – whether it’s East Kowloon’s largest beauty and skincare zone (110+ brands), Hong Kong’s biggest Baby Mart (120+ brands), or the most extensive home and lifestyle offerings (140+ brands).

“The strategic design of this new store ensures SOGO remains relevant to both mature and younger customers with varied consumption habits,” said Mr. Hiroto Taguchi, President & COO of SOGO & SEIBU.

SOGO opening
Courtesy of The Twins

The floors are thoughtfully curated to enhance every shopper’s journey. From beauty on B1/F to luxury fashion on G/F, kids’ essentials on 6/F, sports clothing and equipment on 5/F, and home décor on 9/F, each level promises a treasure trove of surprises. Don’t miss the exclusive Dior Beauty Counter, a first-of-its-kind shop-in-shop concept in Hong Kong.

But the allure doesn’t stop at shopping. The culinary scene is just as enticing. Explore three floors of dining at the upcoming Restaurant Park, featuring debuts like OKOSTA, a Japanese okonomiyaki haven, and Okinawa’s famed YONNA YONNA Gelato. Add to that the serene Sky Koen sculptural park and garden, as well as a state-of-the-art, multi-purpose exhibition space, and you have a destination unlike any other.

To celebrate the grand opening, the SOGO Kai Tak Store is running its Kai Tak Fest until Dec. 1, 2024, offering exclusive deals across beauty, fashion, and more.

For more information on offers and a complete list of shops, visit The Twins on their website, or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

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Hong Kong/ Urbanite/ Commercial

New Hong Kong Social Club 1880 Set to Launch at Two Taikoo Place

Untitled design 92 Photo by 1880 Hong Kong

Renowned for its flagship location in Singapore, 1880 is set to launch its innovative social club concept in Two Taikoo Place, Quarry Bay by the end of 2024. This new venture seeks to transform workspace entertainment by seamlessly integrating work and leisure, fostering meaningful collaboration, and promoting both professional and personal fulfillment.

In collaboration with Swire Properties, 1880 Hong Kong aims to foster a vibrant atmosphere where ideas and interactions thrive, offering a new destination for work, relaxation, and community engagement with premium facilities.

L4 Members Club
1880 Hong Kong

Occupying four floors, the top floor will house the exclusive 1880 Hong Kong Members Club. This luxurious space will feature Leonie’s – a top-tier dining experience, a cutting-edge bio-hacking focused spa, and QUARRY Gym, led by professional athlete Max Woodward. Both the spa and gym will also be accessible to the public for a fee.

Members and 1880 SOCIAL guests can also expand their horizons by participating in a diverse array of experiences, with a large variety of events each month. These include intellectual, culinary and wellness talks, trivia nights, film festivals, music performances, and more. The fourth floor will host an exclusive lineup of premium, curated events for 1880 Hong Kong Members.

L3 Social Lounge
1880 Hong Kong

The first three floors will be dedicated to 1880 SOCIAL, a vibrant new concept open to both members and the public, featuring dynamic events, curated drinks, and versatile coworking spaces.

Té Bo Fine Dining
1880 Hong Kong

1880 SOCIAL will be a hub for a diverse range of dining options from casual to fine dining, including The Double (coffee and wine bar), Hoi Polloi (Southeast Asian cuisine), Té Bo (fine dining), and The Sports Bar (an American diner).

1880 Meeting Room
1880 Hong Kong

The third floor of 1880 extends the working environment with state-of-the-art facilities. It features modern meeting rooms, a high-spec boardroom, podcast studios, a green screen room, and a spacious event area. These facilities will be accessible to the public, with an in-house event concierge team available to cater to both professional and casual needs.

For more information on the concept, membership details, or to RSVP for their upcoming events, visit their website, or check out their Instagram, Facebook for more updates.

Location: 1/F - 4/F, Two Taikoo Place, 979 King's Rd, Quarry Bay, Hong Kong

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Hong Kong/ Urbanite/ Home Decors

Most Unexpected Things You Can Buy at 7-Eleven Hong Kong Online

Instagram 7 Eleven HK Photo by Instagram/7 Eleven Hong Kong

We know 7-Eleven as the go-to spot for instant food and drinks, but beyond that lies a world of products not typically found in other convenience stores. Prepare to discover quirky appliances and home items that will bring color to your life at 7-Eleven Hong Kong. Whether you’re looking for charm, functionality, or a bit of both, the 7-Eleven online store in HK surprises you with a range of products that go beyond the expected convenience store fare.

Snoopy and Friends Pet House (HK$50)

Snoopy and Friends Pet House
Website/7 Eleven Hong Kong

If you’re a fan of Snoopy, consider yourself lucky! For pet lovers who appreciate style and comfort, the Snoopy and Friends Pet House at Hong Kong’s 7-Eleven offers a charming retreat for your furbaby. Featuring a white design with a red roof adorned with iconic Snoopy characters, it’s ideal for small to medium-sized dogs looking for a cozy space to call their own. Buy the product here.

Japanese Electric Pot (HK$688)

Japanese Electric Pot
Website/7 Eleven Hong Kong

Versatile and efficient, the Japanese Electric Pot combines steaming, boiling, roasting, and frying functions in one device. Simplify your cooking process with this multi-functional kitchen essential, perfect for culinary enthusiasts. Buy the product through this link.

Dragon Ball Z Mouse Pad (HK$149)

Dragon Ball Z Mouse Pad
Website/7 Eleven Hong Kong

Remember Dragon Ball Z, the iconic series that millennials grew up watching? Take a trip down memory lane by embracing your inner anime enthusiast with the Dragon Ball Z Mouse Pad. It proudly displays the iconic Dragon Ball Z logo and a print of Goku, offering a smooth surface for precise mouse movements. Get the product through this link.

Mickey Mouse Mini Refrigerator (HK$800)

Mickey Mouse Mini Refrigerator
Website/7 Eleven Hong Kong

Disney fans, this one’s for you! Add a touch of magic to any space with the Mickey Mouse Mini Refrigerator, available at 7-Eleven Hong Kong. Featuring a cheerful Mickey print and compact size, it’s perfect for bedrooms or solo living to keep your snacks and beverages cool in style. You may buy the product here.

STAUB Tall Round Saucepan (HK$1,999)

STAUB Tall Round Saucepan
Website/7 Eleven Hong Kong

Crafted with enamel porcelain and embodying French craftsmanship, the STAUB Tall Round Saucepan is a culinary staple. Ideal for simmering sauces or cooking vegetables, its durable construction ensures even heating and long-lasting performance. Buy it here.

Modern Silk Bedding Sheet (HK$999)

Modern Silk Bedding Sheet
Website/7 Eleven Hong Kong

Experience luxury with the Modern Silk Bedding Sheet, equipped with an advanced eight-point positioning tying rope and a quilt core locking system. This bedding ensures comfort and stability, catering to different sleeping preferences effortlessly. If you’ve been struggling to fall asleep lately, you’ll surely have a good night’s sleep with this item. Get it through this link.

Kuromi Keyboard (HK$399)

Kuromi Keyboard
Website/7 Eleven Hong Kong

Gamers and computer addicts, rejoice! Transform your workspace with the Kuromi Keyboard, featuring circular buttons and a super cute 3D doll. Complete with a protective film, it adds a playful charm while maintaining functionality for your typing needs. If you’re getting bored with your computer setup, this product will bring life to your home workspace or gaming station. You can buy the item on this page.

Momax Smart Eye (HK$499)

Momax Smart Eye
Website/7 Eleven Hong Kong

Enhance home or workspace security with the Momax Smart Eye, a monitor and CCTV device that captures moments and potential risks with precision. This product will definitely make you stay connected and informed about your surroundings for added peace of mind. Get it here.

Coca-Cola Ice Cream Maker (HK$339)

Coca-Cola Ice Cream Maker
Website/7 Eleven Hong Kong

Craving ice cream? Why not make one for a change? Enjoy the freedom of making homemade treats with the 400ml Coca-Cola Ice Cream Maker. Its retro design and quick operation churn out delicious ice cream or smoothies in just 15 to 20 minutes, perfect for satisfying cravings and creating refreshing treats at home. Get the product via this page.

Nintendo Switch Kirby Controller (HK$448)

Nintendo Switch Kirby Controller
Website/7 Eleven Hong Kong

Gaming meets adorable with the Nintendo Switch Kirby Controller. Styled after the well-loved character Kirby, it offers wireless convenience and ergonomic design for hours of comfortable gameplay. Powered by AA batteries, it’s a must-have for Nintendo enthusiasts. Buy it here.

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Hong Kong/ Urbanite/ Interior Design

TREE Unveils Sustainable Furniture Collection for New Season

TREE karma desk split dining chairs Photo by TREE

As summer draws to a close, TREE has introduced a new range of sustainable furniture designed to inspire productivity for the upcoming season. Whether returning to the office or preparing for a new school year, TREE’s latest collection of desks and racks offers both functionality and style.

Bok Adjustable Desk

The Bok adjustable desk, designed by Belgian designer Alain van Havre, is perfect for those who prefer switching between sitting and standing throughout the workday. Crafted from sustainably sourced solid European oak, the desk features a sleek design with slimline T-shaped legs and an integrated motorized system for easy height adjustments.

Karma Desk

Handcrafted from reclaimed teak salvaged from old Indonesian houses, the Karma desk embodies TREE's commitment to giving old wood a new lease on life. Its brass-coated iron framing and luxurious handles contrast beautifully with the weathered wood, creating a modern industrial look. The desk includes a closed compartment with shelves for ample storage space.

bloomsway
TREE

Hemingway Desk

Channeling mid-century modern design, the Hemingway desk is made from sustainably sourced European white oak. It features clean lines, soft-closing drawers, and multiple storage compartments, making it an elegant and practical addition to any workspace.

Circa17 Desk

The Circa17 desk is perfect for small spaces and is designed with both functionality and aesthetics in mind. Made from FSC-certified solid teak, it includes a convenient drawer and integrated compartments for books and stationery, making it ideal for students and home offices alike.

Sophisticated Multi Rack

TREE's sophisticated multi rack, crafted from FSC-certified solid teak, offers a versatile storage solution with unique geometric shelving. It can be placed vertically, horizontally, or even upside down to suit various spaces and needs. This piece also serves as a stylish room divider, adding a natural and striking element to any environment.

TREE's new collection combines sustainable materials with innovative design, providing stylish and practical solutions for the new work and school season. For more information, visit TREE's official website.

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Hong Kong/ Urbanite/ Architecture

Zaha Hadid Architects' Hong Kong Skyscraper Hits Roof Level Milestone

Zaha hadid architects 2 Photo by Zaha Hadid Architects

Zaha Hadid Architects announced that construction of their landmark development above the Hong Kong High-Speed Rail West Kowloon Terminus has reached roof level. The project, situated next to the West Kowloon Cultural District, aims to connect neighborhoods with a network of public gardens and landscaped plazas.

The development, which integrates with the existing station and rooftop park, includes civic, office, and retail spaces. It is located above the West Kowloon Station, a key gateway between Hong Kong and mainland China, and is near the Kowloon and Austin MTR stations, enhancing connectivity within the city.

The project features nearly 9,290 square meters of green terraces and plazas, and includes interconnected office towers at both ends. The central plaza, linked to the West Kowloon Parkway, offers sheltered outdoor spaces for public events.

The design emphasizes maximizing outdoor public space and natural ventilation while maintaining views of Kowloon’s mountains. The towers are designed with vertical shading pleats and photovoltaic panels to reduce energy consumption. The development has achieved an 'excellent' BREEAM rating and top pre-certifications from LEED, WELL, and HK BEAM Plus.

This project aims to provide new public spaces and improve well-being for Kowloon’s residents, highlighting sustainable design and innovative architecture.

For more updates on architectural developments, visit Zaha Hadid Architects' news page.

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Hong Kong/ Urbanite/ Commercial

Sun Hung Kai Announces Plans for Mong Kok Development

Sun Hung Kai Unveils Plans for Mong Kok Development Photo by Website/Sun Hung Kai Properties

Mong Kok is about to gain the title of Hong Kong’s “Green Heart,” as property developer Sun Hung Kai Properties (SHKP) has unveiled its plans for the development of the residential district with an array of green and sustainable elements.

Under the project, SHKP is slated to build a 320-metre tall, 53-storey tower as the development’s centerpiece. The building is projected to be the second tallest commercial landmark in Kowloon and will be equipped with a public rooftop viewing platform.

It will also feature a 200,000-square-foot shopping mall, five community facilities, outdoor spaces, and a 1.2 million-square-foot commercial space.

Sun Hung Kai Properties' 53-Storey Building in Mong Kok
Photo by Website/Sun Hung Kai Properties

Another landmark rising soon in Mong Kok is SHKP’s “Ficus Plaza,” a public space that will feature three banyan trees, along with 50 other trees and green areas that will create a “'Cool Island Effect.”

Other facilities to look forward to include 800 private car parking spaces, a public transport hub, two landscaped walkways that will lead visitors to the Mong Kok East MTR Station deck, and a footbridge to Hak Po Street for greater connectivity to neighboring districts.

The development comes after SHKP won the tender to build a commercial site in the district’s Sai Yee Street last year, allowing them to develop the area.

Stay tuned for more updates on SHKP’s Mong Kok development by visiting their website.

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