Flexible housing provider Habyt has launched its latest project in Hong Kong, Habyt Bridges, in collaboration with the Urban Renewal Authority (URA).

Promising to rejuvenate the South of Hollywood Road (SoHo) neighbourhood, the Habyt Bridges complex has seen the transformation of nine iconic tong laus (tenement buildings) into a vibrant flexible living site, with 38 fully-furnished rooms – ranging from single private rooms to two-bedroom apartments ideally suited for long-stay business travellers.

The monthly all-inclusive fee includes utilities, internet, and cleaning, and required a minimum lease period of one month.

During the design phase, meticulous efforts were made to preserve and rejuvenate the original elements of the buildings, in alignment with the mission of the URA, which is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life through urban renewal. This resulted in the creation of a distinctive mid-century modern tong lau-cum-co-living space, adorned with furniture in vibrant accent colours, retro wall art, and pendant lights. The seamless integration of mid-tone wood with contemporary elements enhances the overall aesthetic.

As part of Habyt Bridges’ commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives, the complex uses solar panels to power communal spaces, while a comprehensive recycling programme with easily accessible recycling bins for members, offers an active participation in Hong Kong’s plastic reduction programme, including ceasing the issuance of single-use plastic bags.

Beyond accommodation, Habyt Bridges aims to be a vibrant community hub. In addition to retail and food and beverage spaces, dedicated community programming includes an array of events not only for Habyt members but also for the general public. The events will revolve around four main pillars: wellness, knowledge-sharing, community building, and impact engagement.

This includes an innovative Artist-In-Residence Programme in which local artists are welcomed to stay at Habyt Bridges at a discounted rate, underscoring Habyt’s dedication to supporting and actively participating in the local arts scene. To inaugurate its debut, Habyt Bridges participated in the annual event, HKWallsFestival 2024, which aims to create opportunities for local and international artists to showcase their talent in Hong Kong and internationally through the mediums of street art and street culture. American artist Rabi was invited to paint a wall mural at Wa In Fong, which sets the stage for future artistic expressions.

Augmenting these initiatives, the inclusion of two community farms adds a sustainable and communal aspect to Habyt Bridges. The events, combined with the community farms, are designed to enhance the lives of Habyt members and extend the project’s positive impact to the local community. This approach bridges the gap between Habyt members and the neighbourhood, creating a harmonious blend of shared living and active community engagement.

“Habyt Bridges’ location is an important step in Habyt’s strategic expansion and growth. Transcending ordinary co-living projects, Habyt Bridges provides affordable and accessible housing in heritage tong laus, that celebrate the dynamism and rich history of the neighbourhood,” says Jonathan Wong, CEO of Habyt APAC. “Meeting at the intersection of heritage and modernity, our design methodology for Habyt Bridges was to preserve as much of the existing tong lau as possible while incorporating modern comforts and convenience that are synonymous with the Habyt brand.

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