In the era of the global citizen, more rental housings have emerged to cater to the 80s and 90s generation who move between cities from time to time. A new rental residence in Soho district illustrates what might be an ideal residence in the eyes of millennials and expatriates.

The younger generation seeks more than practicality in a living space. A modern comfort zone should be both aesthetic and functional, which also attaches importance to a sustainable connection with nature. The newly launched TOWNPLACE SOHO by Sun Hung Kai Properties demonstrates a rental residence with eclectic design, furnishings and amenities targeting the millennials. Clarence Ng, Project Director at SHKP, said that the team spent a lot of time to understand the taste of the new generation. He said: "The new generation has rising standards on interior design. We adopted simple and neat lines to create the warmth of ‘home’, and at the same time, ensuring there is ample storage space. Small details like soundproofing and the wireless phone charging pad add a homely feel to the space.”

A NATURAL ATMOSPHERE CREATED BY INGENIOUS DESIGN

The design of TOWNPLACE SOHO is inspired by nature. Taking references from the immediate external surroundings, within a basic rectilinear structure, the design team looked to soften the interior spaces by adding curves to the walls, ceiling elements, fixtures and furnishings to give a more natural organic feel, as well as the use of natural wood textures. The streamlined cabinets, lighting design that illuminates the ceiling and walls and sliding door partition bring in more natural light, creating a bright and sleek atmosphere. Each unit also comes with a terrace to enjoy views of Victoria Harbour and the Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Park.

A MINIMALISTIC LIFE PERFECTLY INTERPRETED THROUGH PRACTICAL INGENUITY

Flexible furnishings are indispensable in any Hong Kong apartment. An extendable dining table turns the area into a highly functional space. A desk bed from Italian multi-functional furniture brand Clei gratifies diversified needs of the millennials.

Take a look at how the design team created invisible storage spaces and turned them into a part of the decor - retractable storage cabinet around the bathroom corner, a dressing mirror hidden inside the wardrobe, and the movable small chair beneath the bedside table. There are even ladders in the unit for residents to reach the cabinets up to the ceiling.

The apartment offers different furnishing styles for residents. Clarence explained that it is important for the young and independent generation to have choices. The team hopes to make the residents feel at home, therefore they let them customise their stay with two major furnishing brands, Stellar Works and Francfranc.

In the rooms with Stellar Works furnishings, the interiors are matched with dark wood grain furniture. The visual layers are rich and sophisticated. In contrast, the more colourful Francfranc home accessories create a cosy yet elegant design style.

To cater for a healthy lifestyle, these units offer wine coolers and steam ovens and a series of hotel-grade equipment, such as mattresses, bedding and electronic door locks. Some units are also equipped with Marshall speakers. The design team collaborated with renowned artists Kristopher Ho and ParentsParents to present tailor-made creations for its residents.

A TRANQUIL OASIS INSIDE OUT